Aprilia 125 Red Rose Custom (1991-1995) Review: A Quirky Italian Custom With Two-Stroke Soul

Introduction

The Aprilia 125 Red Rose Custom stands as one of the most distinctive entry-level motorcycles of the early '90s - a time when European manufacturers still dared to inject personality into small-displacement machines. This Italian oddball combines retro cruiser styling with the raspy, high-revving character of a two-stroke engine, creating a riding experience that feels equal parts nostalgic and thrilling. While not as polished as its Japanese competitors, the Red Rose Custom oozes Mediterranean charm that still resonates with riders today.

Design & Styling

At first glance, the Red Rose Custom appears to have time-traveled from the 1950s. The teardrop fuel tank with its hand-painted rose motif, swept-back handlebars, and valanced fenders create a neo-retro aesthetic that's more "Roman Holiday" than "Terminator 2." Chrome dominates the visual package, from the staggered dual exhaust to the bullet-style turn signals. The solo saddle sits surprisingly low at 750mm (29.5 inches), making it accessible for shorter riders, though the forward footpegs might feel cramped for anyone over 180cm (5'11").

Build quality shows typical Italian flair - and occasional quirks. The cast aluminum wheels feature intricate star patterns that catch sunlight beautifully, but the thin-gauge steel fenders are prone to vibrating at certain RPM ranges. Still, there's undeniable charm in details like the analog speedometer's blood-red needle or the way the sculpted side covers mimic classic carburetor scoops.

Performance: Two-Stroke Theatre

The Heartbeat of Rebellion

Don't let the vintage styling fool you - this 124cc single-cylinder two-stroke means business. The air-cooled engine produces 27 PS (20 kW) at 10,500 RPM, numbers that still feel punchy by modern 125cc standards. What it lacks in low-end torque, it makes up for with a screaming top-end rush that transforms the riding experience once the power valve kicks in around 6,000 RPM.

The Mikuni VM24 carburetor (set at 0.75-1 turn out on the air screw) requires occasional finesse, especially during cold starts. But once warmed to its 1,400 RPM idle, the engine settles into a characteristic two-stroke burble that morphs into an addictive wail as you approach the 11,500 RPM redline. Keep the NGK B10EG or iridium BR10EIX spark plugs fresh (gap them at 0.5-0.6mm), and this powerplant delivers surprisingly reliable performance.

Transmission & Final Drive

The 6-speed gearbox feels agricultural compared to Honda's butter-smooth units of the era, requiring deliberate shifts, especially when cold. However, the 16/41 sprocket combo (paired with a 112-link chain) strikes a perfect balance between acceleration and highway cruising. At 90 km/h (56 mph), the engine spins at a relaxed 8,000 RPM - low enough for sustained rides without vibrating your fillings loose.

Handling: La Dolce Vita Meets Roman Roads

Aprilia's 34mm telescopic forks and twin shock rear suspension (pre-loaded with 15W oil) prioritize comfort over precision. On smooth asphalt, the Red Rose Custom tracks predictably, but bumpy backroads reveal its limitations. The 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels (running 1.8-1.9 bar/26-28 psi front and 2.1-2.3 bar/30-33 psi rear) provide decent feedback, though the narrow 100/90 front tire demands careful cornering inputs.

Braking performance stays adequate for the bike's 115 kg (253 lb) wet weight. The single 280mm front disc (with DOT 4 fluid) offers progressive bite, while the rear drum works best as a stabilizer rather than a stopping tool. This isn't a canyon carver, but as an urban cruiser or country road companion, it delivers endless smiles.

Competition: Standing Out in the 125cc Crowd

In the early '90s 125cc class, the Red Rose Custom faced fierce competition:

• Honda CM125 Custom: More reliable but bland in comparison
• Yamaha SR125: Four-stroke tractability vs two-stroke excitement
• Suzuki GN125: Superior build quality, less personality

Where the Aprilia shines is in its emotional appeal. While Japanese rivals focused on practicality, the Red Rose Custom delivered theater - from its raspy exhaust note to the way the chrome accents glittered in Mediterranean sunlight. Maintenance intervals were shorter (typical of two-strokes), but enthusiasts accepted this as the price of admission for its unique character.

Maintenance: Keeping the Rose Blooming

As MOTOPARTS.store specialists, we recommend these key maintenance focus areas:

Two-Stroke Care

• Oil System: Use high-quality 2T oil (TTS/XTS specification) at 1.4L capacity. Pre-mix isn't required thanks to the automatic oiler, but check its function regularly
• Cooling: Despite being air-cooled, maintain the 0.9-1L coolant reserve for cylinder head temperature management

Chassis Upkeep

• Chain: The 112-link chain requires frequent adjustment. Upgrade to an O-ring chain for longer service life
• Fork Maintenance: Replace 15W fork oil every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) to prevent seal leaks

Electrical System

• Spark Plugs: Carry spare NGK B10EG plugs - the two-stroke's oil mixture can foul plugs during extended low-RPM riding
• Battery TLC: The small 12V battery struggles with frequent short rides. Consider a lithium-ion upgrade

Conclusion: More Than Just a Learner Bike

The Aprilia 125 Red Rose Custom represents a bygone era when 125cc motorcycles had soul rather than being mere transportation appliances. Its combination of retro styling and two-stroke verve creates an experience that modern electric commuters can't replicate. While certain components show their age (we're looking at you, temperamental carburetor), these quirks become part of the bike's charm with proper care.

For current owners or nostalgic enthusiasts, MOTOPARTS.store carries period-correct components and performance upgrades to keep these Italian roses blooming. From NGK spark plug sets to premium 2T oils, we've got your retro two-stroke needs covered. After all, machines this full of character deserve to stay on the road - turning heads and ringing ears wherever they go.

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Specifications sheet

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