Voge R125 Learner Friendly, Reliable, Inexpensive and Decent.

Chinese brand Voge is a competent company making waves across all biking sectors. The Voge R125 is no exception and will capture the attention of many new bikers embarking on their motorcycling journey. The price, reliability and riding experience mean anyone looking for a starter bike can't ignore this machine.

The Chinese motorcycle brands are taking away sales from the established motorcycle companies, and it is easy to see why. They are producing machines that are much cheaper than other brands in all sectors, from 125cc learner bikes to middleweight adventure bikes, and they don't hold back on technology, performance or handling. Voge is one of the Chinese manufacturers making a name for itself, so we tested its entry-level R125 on meandering roads and through city centres in Surrey.

The Voge R 125 is a semi-sporty naked bike that houses impressive specifications at an attractive price point, making it a standout choice in the competitive 125cc market. Priced under £3,000, the R125 offers exceptional value for those seeking a beginner-friendly motorcycle.

From the moment I encountered the Voge R 125, its contemporary styling caught my eye. The combination of a robust steel trellis frame and sharp, angular bodywork evokes a distinct resemblance to the renowned KTM Duke, giving it a sporty and aggressive stance. The manufacturer cleverly refers to the striking headlight design as a ‘robot face,’ which adds to the bike's modern aesthetic. The large TFT dashboard is a highlight, offering a level of sophistication typically seen in Japanese motorcycles from brands like Honda and Yamaha.

The overall fit and finish of the Voge R 125 is commendable, with neatly arranged cabling and hoses that enhance its visual appeal. The dashboard is thoughtfully designed and packed with a wealth of information, including a fuel gauge, clock, fuel consumption metrics, gear indicator, rev counter, odometers, and a speedometer. A handy feature is the USB-C charging port integrated into the dashboard, a convenient addition for riders who rely on their smartphones as sat-nav devices.

Starting the bike is a breeze with the push of a button, and riding the Voge R 125 at low speeds is a delight, thanks to its exceptional lightness— claimed weight of just 128kg before fluids. While the turning circle could be tighter for city riding, the bike's simple controls make it easy to manoeuvre in urban settings.

Breaking away from the stereotype often associated with Chinese motorcycles, the Voge R 125 is powered by a modern, water-cooled engine with twin-cam technology. With a peak power of 11 kW (14.75 bhp), it exceeds the maximum limit allowed for A1 license holders. This contemporary powerplant translates seamlessly to the road, delivering performance that rivals established brands' sporty 125cc offerings. During rides on the open road, I was able to sustain speeds of 65mph, occasionally flirting with 70mph when conditions were favourable—an excellent achievement for a bike in this class. As the test bike was still in its break-in period, further mileage is expected to enhance its performance.

The ability to maintain a comfortable speed of 60mph is a noteworthy feature for riders who regularly navigate open roads. While 125cc bikes aren't designed for high-speed racing or effortless motorway cruising, the additional 10-15mph top speed the Voge provides over more basic learner motorcycles can significantly enhance safety, particularly when riding alongside larger vehicles on dual carriageways.

Handling and braking of the Voge R 125 are commendable, instilling confidence without any significant drawbacks. Even the original CST tyres, which have upgraded their performance in recent years, performed adequately under the cold, damp conditions experienced during my test rides. While stickier tyres are available, the stock rubber suffices for the bike's intended purposes.

When considering the longer-term value, there's little reason not to choose the Voge over a more established Japanese brand, especially when the savings could go towards essentials like training, riding gear, and motorcycle insurance. Yet there are intangible factors to consider; Honda, for example, boasts a longstanding reputation built over decades, an extensive dealer network, renowned brand loyalty, and excellent after-sales service.

Japanese brands have cultivated a reputation for durability and predictable residual values. Although Voge has made significant strides in recent years, it has yet to achieve the same level of market trust as the established names.

This review does not speculate on how Voge will perform in the coming years, but it is clear that they are progressing rapidly.

Interestingly, we are reaching a juncture where Chinese manufacturers are closing the gap and poised to alter the landscape of the motorcycle industry. While Voge is a relatively new name, it is backed by the significant resources of the Loncin Corporation, a company capable of producing an astounding 2.5 million motorcycles annually and even assembling engines and scooters for BMW. This is far from a small-scale operation.

Though we may not see a massive surge in consumers flocking to purchase Koves and Voges just yet, the aggressive pricing strategies employed by these emergent brands will undoubtedly pressure traditional manufacturers to reevaluate and adjust their pricing structures if they wish to remain competitive. The Chinese are making their presence felt, and the shift in the industry could be on the horizon.

In summary, the Voge R 125 is a well-priced, solidly built 125cc motorcycle that meets regulatory limits and surpasses many competitors in its class.