2005 Husqvarna CR125

2005 Husqvarna CR125 – Continued Development of the Italian 125

The 2005 Husqvarna CR125 was an evolutionary update rather than a new generation. It retained the basic Italian-built CR125 platform used in the preceding years, including the 124.82cc two-stroke engine, steel chassis, six-speed transmission and European suspension package. By this point Husqvarna had developed the CR125 into a distinctive alternative to the Japanese 125cc motocross machines that dominated the class.

The engine continued with its 54.0 x 54.5 mm bore and stroke, reed-valve induction and mechanically operated H.T.S. exhaust power valve. Fuel was supplied by a 38 mm Mikuni TMX carburettor, and the engine used a digital Kokusan CDI ignition. Because a 125 two-stroke depends heavily on accurate fuel metering, owners rebuilding an older machine should pay close attention to worn jets, slides and intake components. The MXOwners carburettor replacement guide can help when original parts are no longer serviceable.

The suspension remained one of the bike's recognisably European features. A 45 mm Marzocchi inverted fork provided 300 mm of front-wheel travel, while a Sachs shock and progressive Soft Damp linkage gave 320 mm at the rear. The factory specification called for AGIP Fork 7.5 oil with an 80 mm oil level, making the MXOwners fork oil reference useful when servicing a bike whose previous setup is unknown.

For today's owner, the condition of the chassis bearings, H.T.S. mechanism, air-filter sealing and top end should be checked carefully. These were competition motorcycles and many surviving examples have seen substantial race use. The MXOwners Bearing Finder can assist when rebuilding the wheels, steering head or suspension linkage. A properly restored 2005 CR125 remains a light, sharp and increasingly uncommon reminder of Husqvarna's Italian two-stroke motocross era.