Aprilia ETX 125 Enduro [1998 - 2003]: A Timeless Two-Stroke Trailblazer

Introduction

The Aprilia ETX 125 Enduro isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a backstage pass to the dirt-covered theaters of adventure. Produced between 1998 and 2003, this Italian two-stroke carved its niche as a lightweight, agile machine for riders who valued simplicity and raw off-road capability. While modern enduros chase horsepower and tech gimmicks, the ETX 125 remains a refreshing reminder of how much fun you can have with a kickstarter, a six-speed gearbox, and a grin-inducing powerband. After spending time with a well-preserved 2001 model, here’s why this bike still deserves a spot in the pantheon of iconic small-bore enduros.

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Design & Build Quality

The ETX 125’s design screams purpose. With a slim steel double-cradle frame and minimalist bodywork, Aprilia prioritized function over flair. The high-mounted fenders, knobby tires, and long-travel suspension (more on that later) telegraph its off-road intentions, while the narrow seat and upright ergonomics make it feel like a bicycle with an attitude problem.

The cockpit is refreshingly analog—no LCD screens here. A basic speedometer and warning lights keep you informed, but your eyes will stay locked on the trail ahead. Fit-and-finish is typical of European bikes of this era: robust where it matters (think forged footpegs and stainless-steel spokes) but occasionally let down by brittle plastic side panels. Still, the ETX ages better than most thanks to its no-nonsense construction.

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Engine Performance: Two-Stroke Thunder in a 125cc Package

At the heart of the ETX 125 lies a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder two-stroke engine displacing 124.8cc. With a bore and stroke of 54mm x 54.5mm and a compression ratio of 15.5:1, this isn’t some anemic commuter mill. The Dell’Orto PHBH 28 carburetor feeds the beast, delivering a punchy 12–15 HP (9–11 kW) at 6,750 RPM. Numbers don’t tell the full story, though. Two-stroke fans will recognize the magic: the raspy exhaust note, the sudden hit of power at mid-revs, and the addictive need to keep the engine singing between 5,000–8,000 RPM.

On tarmac, the ETX 125 tops out at 98 km/h (61 mph)—enough to hold its own in urban traffic but not ideal for highway slogs. Off-road, however, the six-speed gearbox shines. First gear crawls up rocky inclines without stalling, while sixth gear lets you cruise fire roads at 70 km/h (43 mph) without vibrating your fillings loose. Fuel consumption averages 6.1 L/100 km (38.6 mpg), which is thirsty for a 125cc but forgivable given the two-stroke’s spirited character.

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Handling & Suspension: Dance Partner of the Dirt

Weighing just 129 kg (284 lbs) wet, the ETX 125 feels like an extension of your body. The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels (shod with 90/90-21 and 120/80-18 tires, respectively) roll over roots and ruts with confidence, while the generous 360 mm (14.2 inches) of ground clearance ensures you’ll rarely high-center on obstacles.

Suspension travel varies slightly between model years, but expect 232–267 mm (9.1–10.5 inches) up front from the telescopic fork and a whopping 290 mm (11.4 inches) at the rear via an adjustable monoshock. The setup leans toward plushness—perfect for absorbing landings after amateur-hour jumps but soft enough to wallow during aggressive cornering. Adjusting the rear preload helps, though serious riders might eye aftermarket springs.

Braking is handled by single 250 mm (front) and 220 mm (rear) discs. They’re not powerful by modern standards, but the lack of ABS means you can modulate slides with precision. Just don’t expect one-finger stops—this bike rewards assertive lever pulls.

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On-Road vs. Off-Road Manners

The ETX 125 straddles the dual-sport divide with mixed results. On paved roads, the upright seating position and narrow seat become tiresome after an hour, and the knobby tires buzz like angry bees above 60 km/h (37 mph). But point it toward a dirt trail, and the transformation is revelatory. The 890–915 mm (34.6–36.0-inch) seat height (adjustable via preload) gives taller riders room to shift weight, while the 1465–1475 mm (57.7–58.1-inch) wheelbase balances stability and flickability.

In technical terrain, the ETX’s light weight lets you pivot around trees and correct mistakes with a dab of your boot. The two-stroke’s instant throttle response is a blessing for climbing loose hills, though beginners might find the powerband abrupt. Pro tip: Keep the RPMs in the "meat" of the range (5,500–7,000 RPM), and you’ll surf the torque wave like a pro.

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Ownership Experience

The Kickstart Ritual

Forget electric starters—the ETX 125 demands old-school effort. Cold starts require patience: prime the carburetor with a few throttle twists, find top dead center, and deliver a firm kick. Once warm, it’ll ignite on the first try. Embrace the ritual, and you’ll feel like a member of a secret society.

Maintenance Quirks

Two-strokes live and die by their oil mix. The ETX’s separate lubrication system auto-injects two-stroke oil into the fuel, but owners should still check the 0.5L reserve tank before rides. The gearbox holds 600 mL of SAE 75W-90 oil—change it every 3,000 km (1,864 miles) to keep shifts buttery. Spark plugs (NGK BR8ES or BPR8EIX) need frequent checks, especially if you’re lugging the engine in technical trails.

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Competition: How Does the ETX 125 Stack Up?

In the late ’90s/early 2000s, the 125cc enduro segment was fiercely contested. Here’s how the Aprilia fared against rivals:

1. Yamaha DT125R: Yamaha’s air-cooled two-stroke was cheaper and more reliable but down on power (11 HP) and sophistication. The ETX’s liquid cooling and six-speed gearbox gave it an edge in endurance rides.

2. Honda CRM125R: Honda’s answer had a rabid fanbase thanks to its 24 HP engine. However, the CRM was heavier (136 kg / 300 lbs) and more complex, alienating purists who valued the ETX’s simplicity.

3. Suzuki RMX125: A dedicated enduro weapon with superior suspension, the RMX125 outclassed the Aprilia in competition settings but lacked street legality in many markets—a key ETX selling point.

The Aprilia’s blend of road compliance and off-road prowess made it a favorite for riders who wanted one bike to do it all... sort of.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Two-Stroke Dream Alive

As a MOTOPARTS.store journalist, I’ll steer you toward smart upgrades and upkeep tips:

Critical Checks

• Chain & Sprockets: The 16/45 sprocket combo and 110-link chain wear quickly if neglected. Lubricate with quality chain spray after wet rides.
• Cooling System: The 750 mL liquid-cooling system prevents seizure. Replace coolant every two years and inspect hoses for cracks.
• Tire Pressure: Run 1.5 bar (22 psi) front and 1.7 bar (25 psi) rear for mixed terrain. Drop to 1.2/1.4 bar for sand.
• Brake Fluid: DOT 4 fluid absorbs moisture over time. Flush annually to maintain lever feel.

Recommended Upgrades

1. Aftermarket Exhaust: A tuned pipe (like an FMF Fatty) boosts midrange and shaves weight.
2. Handguards: Protect levers and hands from roost with durable barkbusters.
3. LED Lighting: Modernize visibility with plug-and-play LED bulbs for the stock headlight.

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Conclusion: Why the ETX 125 Still Matters

The Aprilia ETX 125 Enduro isn’t the fastest, newest, or flashiest bike. But in an era of 300-pound adventure tanks, it’s a reminder that riding should be playful. Whether you’re threading through single-track or buzzing to a café, this bike delivers joy in its purest form—no frills, no fuss, just two wheels and a cloud of two-stroke smoke.

Ready to revive your ETX 125? MOTOPARTS.store stocks everything from NGK spark plugs to heavy-duty chains. Let’s keep the legend alive—one kickstart at a time.

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Specifications sheet

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