One common question that often comes to mind for Bangladeshi riders is why do 125cc bikes like KTM RC 125, Duke 125, Kawasaki Ninja 125, CFMOTO NK125, Yamaha R125, and MT-125 cost so much more compared to other bikes in the same segment? 

While most 125cc bikes in Bangladesh are priced between 1.3–1.8 lakh BDT these models are priced at 3–5 lakh BDT and in some cases even higher. In this article we’ll try to understand why these bikes are so expensive and who they are really meant for.

Why Some 125cc Motorcycles Cost More Than Others in the Segment?

Firstly, the type of 125cc bikes we are most familiar with in Bangladesh are basic commuter motorcycles. For example, Bajaj Discover, Honda SP Shine, TVS Striker, Hero Glamour etc. are simple, budget-friendly bikes with features like air-cooled engines, slim tires, flat seats, and basic styling. 

Their target customers are usually middle-aged riders who prioritize practicality, low maintenance, and fuel efficiency within a reasonable budget. Though newer models like Hero Xtreme 125 and Bajaj Pulsar NS125 now come with upgraded looks and features appealing to younger riders, their pricing still feels justifiable.

On the other hand bikes like KTM RC 125, Duke 125, Kawasaki Ninja 125, CFMOTO NK125, Yamaha R125, and MT 125 are internationally recognized as “entry-level sports/naked” motorcycles. These bikes carry all the characteristics of sports bikes such as electronic fuel injection (EFI), tuned and powerful engines, liquid cooling systems, wide tires, aggressive designs, and premium build quality. 

They are the result of extensive research and development and built with focusing performance in mind. In addition, they are equipped with modern features like TFT displays, dual-channel ABS, traction control, assist & slipper clutches, and more. Naturally all of these make them very different from basic commuters and significantly increase their manufacturing costs. As a result manufacturers are forced to sell them at higher prices.

In Bangladesh since bikes in the 150–350cc range are already available within the same price bracket average bikers don’t show much interest in these premium 125cc models. In international markets (especially in Europe) these bikes are targeted at young riders aged 18–22. 

Unlike in Bangladesh motorcycle licenses in Europe are issued step by step based on age, experience, and engine capacity. Riders first need to obtain an A1 license which limits them to 125cc bikes with no more than 15 horsepower and the learning period should be in under instructor supervision. 

This creates a strong demand for high-quality 125cc sports bikes in Europe. Manufacturers design them to meet proper European standards by making them feature-packed and performance-oriented which is another reason behind their higher prices.

So the question is who are these bikes for, and are they worth buying in Bangladesh at such high prices? The full answer is hard to put into words. But if you ever test ride one of these premium 125cc motorcycles you’ll quickly understand. These bikes are ideal for enthusiast riders who care more about performance than engine displacement and who want powerful output with a premium riding feel. 

For them the pricing is actually reasonable considering what the bikes offer. We still hope that in the future manufacturers will find ways to gradually lower the prices of these amazing machines by making them more accessible to general bikers in Bangladesh.

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