2007 Husqvarna CR125

2007 Husqvarna CR125 – A Significant Engine Update for the Italian 125

The 2007 Husqvarna CR125 was more than a simple graphics change. Although it retained the established Italian-built steel chassis and basic 124.8cc two-stroke architecture, Husqvarna substantially revised the engine package in an effort to make the CR125 easier to ride and more competitive against the increasingly refined 125cc motocross opposition.

The most important changes centred on the crankshaft and combustion chamber. Husqvarna revised both to reduce engine inertia and improve rideability, aiming to make the engine respond more quickly without sacrificing the high-rpm performance expected from a race-bred 125. The exhaust system was also redesigned, while a new VForce 3 reed-valve assembly improved intake flow. Fuel continued to be supplied by a 38 mm Mikuni TMX carburettor, and owners rebuilding or updating the induction system can compare replacement carburettor options.

Husqvarna also shortened the second-gear ratio for 2007. The intention was straightforward: give the CR125 stronger acceleration during race starts and improve the transition through the lower gears. It was a relatively small transmission change on paper, but on a 125cc motocross engine, where maintaining rpm is essential, gearing can have a major influence on how competitive and easy to ride the motorcycle feels.

The chassis remained distinctly European. Marzocchi inverted forks provided approximately 300 mm of front-wheel travel, while an Öhlins rear shock worked through Husqvarna's progressive linkage system. This suspension combination was one of the features that separated the CR125 from the Japanese bikes surrounding it in the paddock. Owners rebuilding the front end can use the MXOwners fork oil reference when checking oil and setup information.

Braking was handled by hydraulic discs, with a 260 mm front rotor and 240 mm rear. The standard motocross wheel combination remained 21 inches at the front and 19 inches at the rear, wearing 80/100-21 and 100/90-19 tyres. Owners comparing modern replacements can check the MXOwners tyre size guide before fitting new rubber.

For anyone restoring a 2007 CR125 today, the engine revisions make correct model-year identification particularly worthwhile. Earlier and later Husqvarna 125 components can look similar, but crankshaft, intake, exhaust and internal differences mean parts should be confirmed rather than assumed interchangeable. The H.T.S. exhaust power valve also deserves careful cleaning and inspection, along with the piston, rings, reed assembly and crankshaft bearings.

The 2007 CR125 arrived at an interesting point in motocross history. Japanese manufacturers were increasingly concentrating development effort on four-strokes, and some were approaching the end of their 125cc two-stroke production runs. Husqvarna continued developing its small-bore two-stroke instead. That makes the 2007 model an especially interesting survivor: not an entirely new motorcycle, but a meaningful refinement of a proven platform during an era when the traditional 125 motocrosser was beginning to disappear from many competitors' catalogues.