2004 Husqvarna CR125

2004 Husqvarna CR125 – Another Refinement of the Italian Two-Stroke

The 2004 Husqvarna CR125 was primarily an evolutionary model rather than an all-new generation. Husqvarna retained the established Italian-built 124.82cc two-stroke engine, six-speed gearbox, steel chassis and long-travel European suspension package, with the year's changes centred more on detail refinement and appearance than a fundamental redesign.

Its engine continued to use a 54.0 x 54.5 mm bore and stroke, reed-valve induction, the mechanically controlled H.T.S. exhaust power valve and a 38 mm Mikuni TMX carburettor. The CR125 remained very much a competition-focused 125, rewarding riders who kept the engine spinning and the carburation correctly sorted. Owners dealing with worn or modified induction systems can compare replacement carburettor options when rebuilding the fuel system.

The chassis used a steel single-beam layout with a light-alloy rear subframe. Up front was a 45 mm Marzocchi inverted fork with 300 mm of travel, while a Sachs shock and progressive linkage provided 320 mm at the rear. Correct oil level is critical when servicing these forks, and the MXOwners fork oil reference is useful when checking setup information.

For today's owner, condition is more important than mileage. The H.T.S. power valve, piston and rings, wheel and linkage bearings, air-filter sealing and suspension condition all deserve careful inspection. The MXOwners Bearing Finder can help when identifying replacements during a chassis rebuild. The 2004 CR125 remains a good example of Husqvarna's Italian period: light, distinctive and less common than its Japanese rivals, yet still a serious race-bred 125 two-stroke.