Honda XLV 125 VARADERO DX 2015 — Specifications

Who said a 125 trail had to settle for the look of a utilitarian bike? The Honda XLV 125 Varadero DX, especially in its 2015-2016 version, sends this prejudice flying with a presence that almost makes you forget its displacement. It stands there, with its 800 mm seat height and sickle-cut lines, like a mini-Transalp that has swallowed a large 16.8-liter fuel tank. This is far from a simple A2 on wheels; it’s a statement of intent for those who want volume, comfort, and style, even with a restricted license.

Beneath this beautiful suit lies a precision mechanism, but one that must contend with an unrelenting physical reality. The 90° V-twin, a small jewel of 124.7 cm3, delivers its 15 horsepower at 11,000 rpm and its modest torque of 9.8 Nm quite high in the rev range. The problem is the weight: 169 kg fully fueled. This slender engine, with its promising sound, must therefore pull a significant mass, which requires an active riding style, constantly playing with the five-speed gearbox to maintain the engine speed. It’s not a lazy bike; you have to work it, but it rewards with stability and adult-like handling, supported by a serious frame and generous suspension.

Faced with the competition, it occupies a unique position. It literally crushes the classic 125 single-cylinder bikes with its presence and equipment, but its price of €5499 at the time placed it in another league. That was the price to pay for careful finishing, a complete dashboard worthy of a larger bike, and a true trail look. The DX version even added chrome, a two-tone seat, and an engine guard. For those looking for a simple first bike, this might have seemed excessive. But for the aspiring globetrotter or demanding urban dweller wanting a unique and flattering vehicle, capable of serious excursions, the argument made sense.

So, how does it fare today? If you’re wondering what the price of a new Honda XLV 125 Varadero DX is, you need to look at the used market, where it retains a solid value. This is the paradox of this machine: it was expensive, heavy for its class, and not particularly fast with a top speed of around 115 km/h. Yet, it offered a driving experience and a sense of quality unprecedented for a 125. It wasn’t aimed at the standard beginner, but at those who already dreamed of wide-open spaces and refused to compromise on image. A charismatic, demanding, and ultimately unforgettable oval.