2003 Husqvarna CR125

2003 Husqvarna CR125 – Refining the Italian 125 Two-Stroke

The 2003 Husqvarna CR125 was an evolutionary development of the existing Italian-built CR125 rather than an all-new generation. Its basic 124.82cc two-stroke engine, steel chassis and European suspension layout carried over, making it closely related to the preceding model while receiving the normal detail refinement expected of a competition motocrosser.

The engine retained its 54.0 x 54.5 mm bore and stroke, mechanical H.T.S. exhaust power valve and 38 mm Mikuni TMX carburettor. The six-speed gearbox and 13/50 final gearing suited the narrow, high-revving character expected from a 125cc motocross engine. Carburettor condition becomes increasingly important on surviving examples, so owners dealing with worn slides, jets or bodies can compare replacement carburettor options.

Suspension was distinctly European, with a 45 mm Marzocchi upside-down fork providing 300 mm of travel and a Sachs shock working through Husqvarna's progressive linkage system with 320 mm of rear-wheel travel. Correct oil level is particularly important when rebuilding these forks, and the MXOwners fork oil reference is useful when checking service information.

Today the 2003 CR125 is interesting because it represents Husqvarna's Italian era before later ownership and design changes reshaped the marque. When restoring one, owners should pay particular attention to the H.T.S. power valve, linkage and wheel bearings, air-filter sealing and top-end condition. The MXOwners Parts Finder can also help identify replacement components for these increasingly uncommon machines.