AJS Desert Scrambler 125 Review

[@skoorbyrret4578]

I've had exactly the same bike for 17 months, I bought it intending to use it as "Greenlaner", to replace a 500cc machine which was just getting too big & heavy for my advancing years {72 yo BTW}. It suits my purpose perfectly, it's comfortable, and it cheerfully does 55mph with me at 17st {and 6ft tall} aboard and I actually managed an amazing 150mpg whilst running it in. The only complaints I have are ..... 1. The front tyre is a little to wide for my liking {I prefer a narrower front tyre, as they are less prone to skidding on gravelly surfaces} 2. The rear brake pedal reall oughta be hinged, {that bit of tube weded on is hardly gonna give if it hits a rock} 3. An underbelly "bash-plate" might be desirable for anyone more serious than myself {although my days of tackling such tracks/trails are gone}. Before I bought it, I looked at the Sinnis, Mutt, Lex-Moto & Bullit offerings of the same sort of "off-roady" 125's ....the AJS was a clear cut winner over all of them.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for that!

[@midnightrider287]

My first bike was a 2016 AJS DD125 Bobber a few years ago at the ripe age of 33. Never skipped a beat and looked great! I then went to a Bandit 600 then back to a Cruiser with a 950 Midnight Star custom which I still have. Will always be a place in my heart for the little AJS!

[@jasonboud7]

I had a regular AJS Scrambler as my first bike (at the tender age of 48...) great little thing, brilliant value, easy to ride and well sized for a 6 footer and fab as a first introduction! Had it for a year and 1000 or so miles (maybe km 🤷‍♂️) with no problems.

[@alabayliss8566]

Just done the 60th Dragon Rally on this model , the bike never missed a beat , extreme weather conditions all weekend. Never been so wet 💦 can highly recommend this AJS 👍😎

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great feedback - thanks

[@Zeus-lz2sd]

Hi TMF I love how you consistently review 125s and treat them with the same respect as bigger bikes. It's an inspiration and invaluable resource for learners and young riders.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I appreciate that!

[@terryrance2662]

That's what I like about him too. A couple of friends have said , when I have mentioned TMF ,that he is knobhead who just likes GSs. I disagree. I think he likes all bikes , big ,small , fast or slow. Thats what I like about him. I'm the same, I like all motorbikes. Some more than others.

[@imwatchingyou6113]

@@terryrance2662 and nob heads...

[@timgomez1084]

Hey TMF, I'm happy to finally see someone reviewing something other than an old man litre+ bike. I would love to see more of the smaller cc bikes, they're not reviewed much by UK youtoobers.

[@therealunclevanya]

There are others, Marl Pulling, Motors for the Masses, etc

[@MoroMagrew]

I agree more 125 reviews are great, there is such variation in that market with so many fun bikes. I think TMF is well on board with the 125 reviews, I remember a few years ago he did a long term review of a Sinnis 125, kept it over winter if I remember correctly.

[@deanodrives4966]

My fiance bought one the exact same as the one and test. The bike has only done 300 miles so far but I've been lucky enough to have a good go on it. It is an amazing little bike, the standard bike sounds incredible and when she dropped it, there was no damage at all! They feel very well built and durable and I couldn't recommend one enough

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the feedback Deano - makes a change from all the doomsayers!

[@FATBOY692011]

I had an AJS Tempest, same chassis and running gear with mainly cosmetic changes. Had it nearly two years and loved it. Not perfect by any means but cheap to fix. Chain and sprockets were worn out by 6000 miles but they cost around £50 to replace and it needed a reg rec which was £34. It was used through two winters and fared really well. I wish I had kept hold of it to be honest.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great feedback Kevin - thanks

[@paulcarrick4676]

I had the a j.s tempest scrambler for approx 1 year &loved it! Bought it during lockdown for something to do, slightly underpowered, but hey it's only a 125cc so don't expect miracles from it.Build wise I thought it was excellent, like all bikes look after them regarding cleaning & maintenance &they will last a long time.well done a.j.s motorcycles

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the feedback Paul - always good to hear back from a long term owner....

[@peterhobbs7609]

Agree with some of the others, it’s great to someone reviewing smaller capacity machines, and giving them a fair review, especially given that the large majority of bikes sold worldwide are of a smaller CC, job well done MrFlyer

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Peter - appreciated....

[@seH2i]

Thank you for the review, I really like the look and sound of that Scrambler. Had my first bike, a mini bike when I was 12 in 1970, a Rockford Chibi 58cc Briggs and Stratton 2 stroke engine, 3 speed. Made where? China. In Central Pennsylvania, coal mining country having a mini bike or small dirt bike like a Honda SL 70 or 100 or a Kawasaki 90 or Yamaha 100 in your youth was a right of passage. When I turned 14, I was given a Harley Davidson badged Aermacchi called a Rapido, 125cc two stroke made in Italy. Even the Sears Allstates motorcycles at that time were made in Italy or Austria. Today, the European market and the Asian market are full of small displacement Scramblers and dual purpose motor bikes NOT available in tbe states. So what's a Grandfather to do? 3 years ago I started my 11 year old granddaughter out on a Coleman mini bike- made where? China. Price wise going to a bigger bike for her I purchased these two SSR Enduros, a 150, 189 and a SSR 250 Dual Purpose for myself to ride in the winter. Many major brand dealerships sell SSR's now and they're reliable. Made where? China. We've had the SSR'S for 2 years now no issues. Even purchased another one for the grandkid, a 125cc pit bike. The 2 Enduros & the pit bike are Honda clone engines & the 250 is a Yamaha clone engine. SSR has been around for decades and the quality has improved tremendously. I did my research. Around 2009 I suffered 2 heart attacks and a service connected back injury laid me up for over a year. I sold my 2 Harley Davidsons. After a year I decided to go against doctors orders, began physical training and got myself into shape and decided to give riding a go. I purchased a Royal Enfield Classic Bullet 500, military bike and rode it for 2 years. I sold that and purchased a Triumph Scrambler 900 which I rode for 2 years also. Then I purchased a used Harley. If the AJS Scrambler was available in the states I would have purchased one for my granddaughter or another model from the many European motorcycle manufacturers that YOU ALL are lucky to have available. I'm 64 years old, a disabled veteran and I still ride Harleys. The SSR XF250 is for the winter when it's damp and cold, when my body feels crippled from old injuries because of the damp, cold weather. Last year when my granddaughter was 13 she drove my 1996 Harley Davidson Dyna Low Rider! She prefers off roading with the Enduros but she's not afraid to try something bigger. She's ambitious, like her grandfather and we'll ride machines with a good reputation, what's available and what we could afford. We don't care what anyone else thinks, it's all about enjoying the ride, having fun. My granddaughter knows my story and how I scratched and clawed my way back to riding motorcycles. Whatever it takes ! Grandfather John Pennsylvania USMC Beirut Veteran

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Niceone John - thanks for the great comment....all the best!

[@SheldonElectricals]

Lovely to see a review on a smaller cc, smaller British (ish) manufacturer! I would love to see some reviews on more AJS, Herald 125s, 250s and the new Brute 500. Keep up the good work!

[@ace_reality7512]

Iv had my scrambler for 6 months my wheel bearings shattered after 2000 miles but after that issue has been nothing but smooth sailing and I should say hasn’t been serviced and has 5600 miles and has been good

[@Micjoh]

Son has one. They are lovely. Sounds amazing coming up the road. Perfect country lane bike and commuter. Just doesn't use petrol. Invest in some anti-corrosion spray if you intend to ride all year, as with any bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good advice!

[@johnlenart597]

Sometimes to appreciate the "retro" look, one must be a little retro himself. I remember bikes with this look when I was younger. None must not forget the simplicity that just plain got the job done. Happy New Year Andy. 👍👍🥳🙋‍♂️

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...and to you John...

[@hibstillidie]

Yeah I have the tempest scrambler, pretty much the same as this with a slightly different design. The yam YBR engine in it causes no issues. It’s well built, it really is a simple arse on engine 125 and completely lovable. I’m a member of an AJS group and the feedback from members that have had AJS’ for upto 5 years is they really are reliable. Rust wise: no issues, although I do use ACF50 and when using in winter give it’s a quick cold water hose after each ride, just to get the road salt off. Excellent for a daily driver or 1st time learner bike. Oh and AJS customer service is very very good.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great to hear!

[@Lander76]

Just curious, what top speed are you seeing?

[@hibstillidie]

@@Lander76 I’m 189cm tall and around 96kg (15st). It’s good for 55 and 60 down hill. It’s just a 125 after all. Amazing for green laning as well

[@Lander76]

@@hibstillidie cool thanks!

[@maskedavenger2578]

Looks like a proper motorcycle ,nice colour tank ,back about 10 years ago I wouldn’t of touched a Chinese built motorcycle with a barge pole ,but now they have upped their game . The better Chinese factory’s are now knocking out bikes pretty much as good as any budget Japanese models . They got the old Suzuki GS / GN 125 cc air cooled engine down to a fine art & I believe they have even improved it with an upgraded balancer shaft so should prove bullet proof ,with regular oil changes & valve checks . Always handy to have a little 125 in the stable ,cheap as chips to run & very handy to drag out to nip the shops ,or for a nice rural B road bimble Mr Flyer 👍

[@ianpotter5840]

My first bike (when relearning to ride at age 49) was a new AJS Tempest Roadster (basically the same bike as Andy reviewed but with black paint, road tyres and a low exhaust). It was an ideal bike for a learner, cheap to buy, looked great, with acceptable performance. I used to do a 100 mile round trip commute on mine once or twice a week and it coped ok. The only problem I had was with the linked brakes - these bikes don't have ABS, the brakes are linked so if you use the back brake the front brake applies too. The problem is that the system is prone to air bubbles being trapped in the system which causes the rear brake to stop working. Bleeding the brakes doesn't dislodge the bubble - my dealer told me they were very difficult and usually needed the calipers to be removed in order to fix. So if the bike is under warranty it's a return to dealer job - hence the second issue. Unless AJS have now resolved this they didn't offer a breakdown package as part of the warranty - so it was my responsibility to get the bike to the dealer (who was 90 miles away from home). I was able to use my own AA membership to get the bike relayed to the dealer but worth checking the warranty terms if you want to buy an AJS. Second thing to keep an eye on are the 2 allen bolts that attach the exhaust to the cylinder head. These have a tendency to loosen over time - you will know if it starts blowing as all of a sudden the bike sounds like it's turned into a 250! These are only niggles It's great to be able to buy a bike with a British badge at that price point.

[@sergentcolon1]

You can though buy a Royal Enfield Meteor 350 for not a lot more if you’ve passed your test and it’s leagues ahead of this bike in build quality, power and ride quality and has the British badge and more dealerships.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good feedback Ian - thanks for taking the time to write that lot down....

[@PhilipBallGarry]

Ignore the nay sayers Andy 🙄. What a lot of people appreciate about your channel is that it's not biased towards big, expensive bikes all the time. I'd we're going to attract new riders it's important that they can find reviews on a large cross section of machines of all sizes and capacities. Now that Mrs Flyer is on her way into (solo) biking it's even more appropriate to show us some 125's and A2's. Well done and thanks. I like the adjusted format to your vids too - where you cut to an off bike view each time you go over a particular item (engine, brakes, seat etc) 👍 Ooh, and Happy New Year. From Kel's and myself 🎉 Larryblag

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the kind comment - glad you like the format - it takes a lot more effort to do in the writing, filming and editing, will probably only do from time to time...

[@stephenhadley2490]

I just bought a new Honda CT125 Hunter Cub. Not sure you can get them in the UK but what a fun bike. Really liking having a small bike in the mix. Fuel economy is 64km/l or 180mpg. Enjoying life in the slow lane.

[@harrygardiner7678]

I own one of these bikes and have done for over a year now. It’s my first bike. These are reliable bikes. Personally mine has had a couple issues but that’s down to user error. But keep with general maintenance and this thing will look after you. I’ve crashed mine at 40mph on a corner and she still ran fine. The kickstart does work. With it being a fuel injected motor it needs battery power to actually start off the kickstart since the fuel pump actually needs to prime to get fuel to the engine. But it sounds good I think. And you’re got the styling of an old bike and these particular models were made in commemoration to Mike Jackson and he was showed this bike in an interview. I’ve taken mine enduro riding in very wet conditions and if there was an experienced rider on it I reckon it would do well. It’s good for smaller green laning routes etc nothing to technical though for sure. I’m 6ft and fit the bike fine and not quite the lightest rider and it picks up speed great for pulling out of junctions etc.

[@JonnyJayJonson]

Would love a review of the AJS Cadwell!

[@nigelramone2977]

Love the video. Just bought myself a Bluroc 125 which is very similar as a commuting bike, absolutely love it. I've got a BMW S1000XR as a main bike but the 125 is so much fun. Takes me back to the 80's on my RD 125LC, but slower!!

[@jameswebb642]

Cracking bike

[@bren106]

I bought a Chinese 125 while I was on my long quest for a Varadero, 19 months old now and not had a single fault or worry with it. It's kept outside under a cover and has no corrosion despite our climate. Dealer serviced to maintain the warranty, keeping it clean and ACF-50 is about all I do. I've got my Varadero now but I've kept this as well because of how damn good it is.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice one Bren160 - thanks for the feedback...

[@chrisbolton5461]

A colleague of mine has an AJS Cadwell and he loves it. Rides it in all weathers too and it is holding up well.

[@stellauniversal]

Never heard of this. Great review and lovely machine 👌 Happy New Year to all the good people out there!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks, you too!

[@garethtemple6242]

Good to see you reviewing these budget small capacity bikes. I'm not inherently against this sort of bike or Chinese bikes in general...but, I'm put off a bit by a friend's recent experience with a Sinnis 125 Scrambler (which looked incredibly similar to this bike). Mechanically it was perfectly reliable, but was alarmingly covered in rust and corrosion within less than a year of ownership.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oh dear, I must admit my recent experience with Sinnis wasn't good - see kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zl6QiJ1rbMRliMU

[@Scout7336]

Thanks Andy. Nice to hear about bikes that are available in the UK. Never heard of AJS.

[@johnbrereton5229]

Really? AJS are a very famous marque their 7R and Porcupine racers were very advanced for their day racing alongside Manx Nortons. They used to make a very nice V twin as well, probably worth a fortune now.

[@Scout7336]

@@johnbrereton5229 Really. I haven't heard of them. I am in the U.S.A. and know just enough to get me in trouble. 🙂

[@johnbrereton5229]

@@Scout7336 Heres is some information on AJS for you Bob. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/AJS You can even watch a 1935 George Formy film No Limit, set at the 1935 TT where this character is riding a AJS. Its probably available here on KZbin.

[@dennisbowskill3706]

Happy New Everyone and Mr Flyer. Nice see anther motorbike design for small people. (Will you what I mean) So another motorbike to add to my list. Can not wait to see more one AJS motor cross.

[@martinlegrice1414]

Really wish we had 125 options in America. They really are a hoot!

[@iainf6]

Hi Andy, fantastic to see AJS name back🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@BoatingBiker]

Having looked at the AJS offerings now available, I decided to check KZbin for info and lo and behold TMF doing a road test of the the little scarambler! Ive been a fan of AJS since the 1960's when I used to get a lift into work on the back of a nieghbours AJS 650. The little bike looks ok but I doubt a 125 will be aserious contender. The price is very tempting, I'll have to take a closer look. Thanks!!

[@grumpsrides42]

The average owner, of these Chinese (based) bikes, are 17yrs old, have little to no riding experience, little to no mechanical knowledge or sympathy, and people wonder why they don't last??!! OK, Japanese bikes are built slightly better, but cost WAAAAAY more!! Just my opinions. I must say, I agree with many others, it's nice to see reviews, on smaller, less well known bikes. Top job, keep up the good work 👍

[@malcolmmuirhead8833]

I started on a 125, scary, a2 class should be the learner bike in the world according to Malcolm and 50cc 125cc bikes could be bought by choice by people to run around town, respect for covering small capacity bikes

[@Mr450pro]

The all scrambler look is growing on me. I like that it can be used for light gravel roads. Ps. Kenda is a big tire company

[@f.h.9606]

Every bike can be used for light gravel roads. Been there, done that. ;-) Besides from the nobby tires the AJS has no advantage over any other 125cc offroad. I think 18" tyres or a 19"/18" combo would suit her better. The 17" make her look a bit chunky. Bigger wheels would make her look leaner and have a little advantage on rough roads. But let's keep it real, it's an inexpensive china-bike, so it would push up the effort and the price to fit every AJS with the best tyre size.

[@TheMrbazooka]

I've been rather tempted to get one of these as my first bike this year. I was originally going to go for the model before this, but the price has gone up from £2349 to £2999, same as this new model.

[@somersetbiker]

One of my daughters has the Tempest version and is very happy with it. It's a 2018 model which she bought secondhand early last year. So far no reliability issues and her only complaint is its hill climbing ability. Well, she does live in the Lake District so not surprising really.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thaks for the feedback Nigel - all the best!

[@rickparkinmoto]

A great looking little commuter, and cheap as chips to run. It'll be interesting to hear from long term owners. I would imagine it'll be reliable enough, but it'll probably need plenty of TLC to keep it looking pretty. Takes me back to my early biking days (late 1970s) when we were spoiled for choice with small capacity fun bikes.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes i agree Rick - you have to look after these like any other bike - just because they are cheap to buy doesn't mean they don't need to be looked after.....

[@jonathanj.7344]

It reminds of the Suzuki TS100 I owned in 1976 as a teenager. I used to love it. This has about the same top speed. Got me looking at my bank balance now.....

[@palantir135]

Nice bike for commuting. Whatever the weather and road conditions, this bike will get you to your destination. Kickstarter 😋. First push down slowly until you get resistance. Then push down quickly with force.

[@gzk6nk]

Alongside my R9T in the garage is my 2012 Honda Innova 125. It's so much fun and ideal for nipping into the village and down the local lanes I ride it more than I ride the big bike! It's a fuel injected single like this AJS and starts first touch of the button (or first half-depression of the kick start, unlike that AJS) and ticks over like a little sewing machine. It's still on its 2012 battery, too I bought it six years ago when it was 4 years old for £1,500, one previous owner, from the Cornish dealer who'd sold it originally and serviced it. They were probably approaching £3K when they were new (mine is the last year of production). It has 17" spoke wheels, a single front disk and rear drum, side stand and main stand, and handles surprisingly well. I'm a heck of a lot heavier than you and it'll hustle along at 55mph all day, 60 given time, doing 125MPG with me on it, but the tank is only good for about 130 miles. And though it's ten years old it looks almost like new. From a few feet away it's indistinguishable from new. It's a Honda! I can't see me ever selling it unless I have to give up bikes for some reason, but if I did I'd probably replace with a Honda SH125. Somehow, I doubt that AJS will look like new in 10 years time, even assuming it's still on the road (those welds!!!!! And why doesn't it kick start?). Thanks for the review, comprehensive as ever.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sounds like you’re onto a winner there!

[@gzk6nk]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I think so, but unlike the AJS it doesn't look like a 'big bike'. It's a step-through, so doesn't have the visual 'motorbike' appeal of the AJS. That matters a lot to some, especially younger riders who are perhaps more fashion conscious than an old fart like me.

[@ragerider6283]

Nice little review vid. I think it looks quite nice & I'm also a big fan of smaller bikes but still not convinced by the vast majority of Chinese bikes & this one hasn't changed my view. Although I'm an open minded skeptic so will continue to watch with interest.

[@mikehorton8603]

Another informative review Mr Flyer, seems on a par with the Mash offerings with the twin clocks, a nice touch at this price point. I'd love to see you do a review of the Zontes G1 125 the premium Chinese scrambler liquid cooled and on the 15BHP limit and see how it competes to the cheaper offerings.

[@timnisley5391]

Great review! I am a little disappointed no dealers listed on the website in USA. That looks like a right interesting little trail bike.. provided you had a trailer or could throw it in back of a truck to get it there. Definitely would not want to have to ride that thing on any road over about 45 mph.

[@AdamC66]

Little bikes are so much fun. Sure, no one nods at you any more, but it's so nice to be on something quiet, sub-150kg, pootling down a green lane admiring the view. This AJS looks just right, and £3k is v attractive.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Couldn't agree more!

[@JohnSmith-zv8km]

I looked at a number of 125 bikes to buy is an around town second string to my Bonny. In the end decided to pay 3600 pounds for the Honda Grom which is so much fun to ride and has the reliability of a Honda, ABS and e very TFT screen with lots of info, although the rear brake is rubbish.

[@Jaffa1951]

I had a YBR125 custom to get me from CBT to full licence, which had a kick start to complement the electric start. It would take several kicks before it would start - but did, always, get there eventually. About 60MPH was top speed. ( I'm 12st 7lb )

[@marcoluoma3770]

Thanks so much for this. I love that you review such a wide variety of bikes. Over here in the US all we get is the latest from Ducati, KTM, and Harley. I really wish we had US version of MSF. Thanks again.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well luckily I am available to view in the US!!

[@davidbeckerleg6954]

Top review as ever.. Pity they don't do a 200 or 250

[@flatcapcaferacer]

I once worked at a company that made aerospace parts and non aerospace parts.The inspection, material and work processes were definitely more stringent for the aerospace parts. I'm not sure how to confirm the absolute of two more companies quality equalvancy coming from the same manufacturer of other the are the same parts selling for the same price.

[@billcotton1551]

It is a really good looking bike! I love Kenda tires. I use them on my CRF ,great dual sport tire.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oh cool!

[@docgreen4934]

Hi Andy, looks great fun to me. Low cost and no doubt inexpensive to run! I started on a Honda 125 way back in the late 1960s - didn’t have it very long but it didn’t let me down. A comparison of 125’s would be an interesting watch! Happy New Year to you and yours - really looking forward to motorcycling in 2022! Yours aye, Alan

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Alan - thanks for watching for the last year once again...Happy new year to you and yours...

[@brahnseer3512]

I offer my thoughts and experience of owning an AJS Caldwell. It is as you state Chinese made badged AJS. I am a returning rider and decided to get a small bike to get my confidence back after a long hiatus without a bike and to thereafter pass it on to my son to enable him to get his CBT. I confirm the finish of the bike needs a lot to be desired: the welding was as you noted, pretty bad. My pre registered bike was delivered with two dead bulbs, clutch adjusting nut on the lever twisted and unusable, a warped front brake disc. The rear springs looked as though they had been chromed over rust. The supplied battery did not last long and had to be replaced. A further two dead bulbs were replaced at the next service, the centre stand return rubber broke and had to be replaced. A recall was issued for a rear brake problem: mine was not affected though the local dealer was atrocious and took four days to confirm it was not affected and returned the with a loose replacement mirror. The bike is now erratic in starting. The mechanic (not the dealership mechanic!) suggests the problem may lie with the fuel injection system. This has put considerable strain on the battery which needs constant re charging. The kick start, as you noted, is not reliable. The mechanic is of the view that if the fuel injection is replaced, his experience is that it has only a 20% chance of it being manufactured correctly and that it will actually work! The engine however has not presented any problem! When it starts!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

OMG that sounds awful!! Thnaks for the real world feedback....you must have got a duff one, if they were all like that surely they'd be out of business!

[@geoffshelis]

Hence the term chinese junk!

[@colindeans5972]

What a cool looking thing. Thanks for a good review as always TMF.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching - my pleasure as always Colin!

[@stevenevans6314]

Great looking little bike and it looks big enough so you don't stupid on it, great review obviously done in better weather thanks Steve

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes, filmed at the end of summer…

[@DatOldeBiker]

Thanks for showing this great little bike, it's exactly the thing to keep as a second bike in the garage. :>)

[@lauriew2907]

good review TMF, I was a bit worried when you said " I will wind this up and see how she goes" The video only goes for 12 minutes...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I'm making an effort to make shorter videos....I think once videos creep up to 30 minutes people think twice about watching them (I certainly do)....

[@philako6160]

Good looking machine, when I see these Chinese bikes my first thought is always why can't they build a 500 version. As a big single fan I mourn the demise of the Yamaha SR500 no manufacturer has realistically filled that void.

[@hazy1418]

Check out the Fantic Caballero 500cc, there are a few different models, nice looking bike 👍

[@philako6160]

Agreed, along with the Mash 650 they're a bit on the tall side for me but yeah! Royal Enfield Meteor 500 would be good. From what I can gather SWM and Mash bikes have honda XL derived engines that are revvy rather than SR/XT thumpy if you know what I mean.

[@999pez]

@@hazy1418 I did look at the Caballero's a while ago. I like the look but think they're a bit overpriced at £5500 for the basic one when you can get something like a Royal Enfield Interceptor for a few hundred more. Feels like a Chinese derived 500 single should be more like £4-4500?

[@paulscammellscampi3743]

The Chinese bikes are getting better I'd have one for bimbliing about. I like the way you have split the walk round with the riding of the bike

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you spotted that paul - a pain to film mind you!

[@aaronleverton4221]

Plenty of Japanese-designed, Chinese-produced small bikes in SEAsia and they last fine as daily commuters driven by the generally less-than mechanically sympathetic. I'd now really like to see a video trek comparing this with Honda's 125 Trail. I currently have a CB50 for frugal commuting (previously a GL500, CB750 and CB900) and have set my sights on a 650 Continental GT when the covid economy is finally over, but this suddenly looks like a nice intermediate step: a nice increase in power, not a huge increase in mileage and all the right retro looks.

[@MoroMagrew]

I happen to think the modern AJS 125 range are really nice looking, hope they expand into the 250 and 400 sector as you see a number of other Chinese bikes doing so these days. Perhaps something that competes with the Honda HNess350 and RE Meteor 350 would be good, I think Brixton do something in that arena. As for Chinese bikes I have no problems with them, most brands make their 125’s in China, the Honda CBF125, Piaggio and Aprilia 125’s, I know the old Suzuki GSX 125 was Chinese built but not sure about the new one, you can check the VIN on your wife’s bike, if it starts with an L it’ll be made in China at the Haojue factory. China have been pumping out 125s for years as they used them domestically for everything, from farming, trikes, commuting, to taxis. When I lived in China, I had a Chinese 125 that served me well, there are massive variations of quality, but the ones imported to the UK are really the best that are on offer. Oh and a Happy New Year to you sir, looking forward to another excellent year of videos from your kind self!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers MM and to you!

[@khr1960]

Henry Cole rode the street version some time back and appeared to be impressed with the make.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I saw that too....

[@iainamurray]

The UK would feel a lot less crowded if people got out of their enormous cars and onto these bikes for shorter journeys. As well as a family car I had a runabout. Realised that I only ever used it for an 8 miles each way commute so got a 125. Could ride around the traffic, 100+mpg, almost nothing in tax and insurance and could park for free at work.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hear hear to that!!

[@davidmaden1716]

Bought the wife a ajs tempest . Tbh it’s a great wee bike she loves it looks so retro British 60s had it a year no issues

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good to hear David - all the best!

[@stepheneldridge6998]

Nice review TMF, whatever the nitty gritty of longevity, build quality etc it's a great, cool looking little bike for the money ..what a fab first bike or commuter! Happy New year to you! Cheers, Steve

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Stephen - happy new year to you too....

[@dogphlap6749]

Perhaps I missed it but this bike has a 4 stroke engine (not a 2 stroke as I thought it might have) and a balance shaft as suspected by Mr Flyer. Source: AJS website.

[@trevorbrew9472]

Hey Andy, I am from Australia and and subscribed. Like your posts. I like the AJS 71 Scrambler very much. What as been the feedback on this bike as I am thinking about buying one and ride around the U K next and give to my son when I leave as they are not available down under? Shame as I would buy one in an instance.

[@Marc-zf3xv]

Kenda tires (tyres) may be the highest quality item on that bike. They are decent tires.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

So I hear! A number of people have said the same…

[@fredtracy3931]

I like the fact that it has a kick start, reminiscent of the old Honda CL scramblers. 👍 cheers from Canada 🇨🇦

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Fred!

[@fredtracy3931]

@@TheMissendenFlyer have you ridden any more two strokes, since you rode Allen Millyard's bike?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sadly no....

[@SuperchargedLlama]

Interesting review and a fun looking bike. If I could justify a toy bike I'd certainly get a scrambler style one I think. Only downside on this particular video is the audio, the mic is very crackly. I'm sure you noticed this during the editing too.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I did - sorry about that - sometimes the set up isn't as good as others!

[@SuperchargedLlama]

@@TheMissendenFlyer was it a different lid? It's so frustrating when you get to editing it and it's like that isn't it? I had a similar problem the other week, hadn't realised it was using the built in mic instead of the external. Your new on on bike news was superb btw.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

@@SuperchargedLlama Yes it was a different helmet, hence the difference - and thanks!

[@5tevieb954]

Thanks reviewing the smaller bikes! Good video

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching!

[@debenhamdave4314]

Lovely looking fun bike totally get it. Cheers Andy

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No worries DD!

[@BoatingBiker]

Very informative review usual. What a super little bike! I wonder if a 21" front wheel would fit the frame? Potentially a good greenlaner. Good stuff.

[@adrianrouse5148]

Thinking the same thing myself. 21 inch wheel and a front mudguard would be a lovely litle green laner

[@nigeltankard6977]

Great looking bike for that price. Love the tank colour

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You and me both!

[@brakenoodle105]

I am draw to this bike because it looks so great. The high level exhaust and 1970s styling is bang on. But, what ruins it is the weedy engine with a 50mph top speed. My 1970s Suzuki 125 could get to 70mph all those years ago.

[@therookierider8841]

I recently bought this bike and managed to reach 63mph on a national speed limit road.

[@Off-Road-4x4]

Great review, I do fancy one of those as an extra bike. I would liked to have seen you kick it over. Would look great with some bar end mirrors. It made me smile as my wheelbarrow came fitted with a Kenda tyre. Cheers.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hilarious!

[@brakenoodle105]

Kenda are bigger in the bicycle world FYI.

[@tonylawson8301]

Happy new year back to business as usual

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Happy new year Tony!

[@paulpartridge2674]

Did my cbt on an AJS great little bike 👍

[@martinholt2844]

A great looking and sounding bike, but I think they are well down the list to be in my stable of 4. Nice review though!👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough!

[@havok531]

Nice looking bike, I'd love to test ride one. Don't know if it's going make it to the US, though.

[@tomstockell9481]

Great little education video - thanks

[@zweispurmopped]

May it be the overture to a real AJS appearing one small day! 🤗

[@katywilliams3748]

Great looking 125 cc bike , love the orange tank . As an aside , the Triumph Tiger Sport 660 should be in the dealers this month , any chance you can get your hands on one for a review.? Happy New Year by the way .

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I hope too - Happy New Year to you too!

[@kevinmcanulty2593]

Alan James Stevenson I believe. 60s BBC Grandstand scrambling with Dave Bickers Arthur Lampkin etc. My first bike a Francis Barnett!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice!

[@debbieclegg2485]

Nice starter bike by the looks 👌... if I'd had that option 26 yrs ago .. would've been fab 🌠

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Exactly!

[@onecookieboy]

40 years ago my first 2 bikes were Suzuki's, first a TS125 then a TS250, both well used when I got them. I rode them non stop for over 3 years covering thousands of on and off road miles, neither of them ever let me down, I wonder if the same will be said about this bike years from now?

[@debbieclegg2485]

I had a kh100.. like a wobble box !! 198something !!!

[@rumien1383]

Good spot to check the brakes. Scare the crap out of security.

[@markbur1503]

Not a bad looking 125. Not sure i would buy Chinese bikes whatever the CC. Good review which should inspire young riders coming into Motorcycling. By the way, are the mirrors an optional extra?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...I'm thinking you didn't watch the whole video.....

[@markbur1503]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I did skip a few minutes here and there..☺️

[@junderwoituk]

Looks like a great little bike for the money. Like other's said here, shame there was not a 200/250 version for a little bit more power...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

True - but no good for learner riders of course!

[@steveaga4683]

The only reason why the 125 is so popular is because of "rules"!

[@robbikebob]

There are some amazing looking little Chinese based retros out there, but I'd always have a feeling that for a bit more cash you could have a 350 enfield or a second hand Honda 500. Unless you're a learner or purely a commuter, a 55 top speed isn't quite enough. I'm not at all bothered about going fast, but I'd like a bike to be able to hold 70. I'd like to see some of these bikes with 'full fat' 14 bhp engines.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yeah I'm with you on that....

[@steveaga4683]

I would prefer an RE 350....they do three great ones now...but I am limited to 125 as I have only just obtained my CBT! It seems like a waste of finance to get a 125 first, but it is the cheapest option to get on the road! Getting the full licence is quite expensive!

[@gazworld1808]

Great video matey 😁👍nice little bike and nice to hear of some British heritage #gazworld 🌍👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@gazworld1808]

@@TheMissendenFlyer yes I did thanks 🙏

[@uytteb]

Looks VERY similar to my Orcal Sirio. Same story: Chinese-built "in the same factory where they build Yamahas". Supposedly French-designed for the Orcal but the instruments and the lights at least look identical to the AJS's and much of the rest is very similar. I've had my Orcal for about a year, ridden about 7,000 km on it on Belgian roads and it's held up well (a bit of rust on some metal parts).

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the feedback! ...and yes I think the way it works is these end sellers basically select the frame, engine, switchgear, etc from a chinese shopping list (lets call it a menu!) get them branded, have them shipped here and then do their own final assembly - in the case of AJS they do a bit more quality control than most I believe - but the upshot is many iferent bike companies end up with very similar looking bikes.....

[@dannyracer25]

Excellent review tmf thanks from danny

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure as always Danny

[@geoffozevans4500]

Great little bike for scooting about, price is good too 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I agree!

[@likkitongue]

Was looking forward to the "Hey kids" only to get a "Hey Folks". 😥 Good looking machine. Possibly make a great single track bike me thinks?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My apologies for the dissappointment - "Hey Kids" coming back in the next video (a bonus one on Saturday). I did say it would take a few vides to filter through - clearly this one was recorded some months ago....there may be more "in the can" still to come without it...apologies in advance.

[@marklloyd9472]

Nice looking bike spot on for the new rider I would like a run around the mountainon that , We are presently awaiting delivery of my sons first bike a 2015 Yamaha yzr125, ( it was picked up from the shop on Monday and no news of delivery yet it's only 150km away but same old mañana mañana here. 😂😂😂👍👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Best of luck with the new bike!

[@marklloyd9472]

@@TheMissendenFlyer ye and new 17 year old rider , I will be following on my GSA 1250 , on our rides out, should get plenty mpg . 😂😂

[@simonthomas5367]

Hey TMF and Happy New Year! Who says bigger is better?! Have a great year. GO CAROL!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You too Simon - cheers!

[@Cubrider]

Once again a great review but could you maybe inc service intervals as I know it was something Itchyboots takes into account when buying a bike and ever since I heard her talking about it its high up on my list

[@Ross.i.m]

i currently have a ajs highway star and i must say ive had a lot of issue and weird things happen with it. bought it brand new and its less than 2yrs old. now they do know how to make beautiful looking bikes but the engines they use really are not the best. all the issues ive had are engine based but brakes are superb for a cheap bikes, pretty decent suspension and comfortable riding position. the other thing is the tyres, they are scary bad in wet, like back wheel locking up from downshifting at about 4500rpm 3rd to second kind of scary bad.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oh dear - sorry to hear that Ross but thanks for watching and sharing your experience! Will be helpful for others…

[@ian-c.01]

As this type of bike is aimed at the first time buyer and therefore inexperienced rider you should look into things like what happens when they inevitably get dropped. How much do replacement parts cost and what is the availability of the usual things that get broken like footrests, levers, front brake reservoir, mirrors, clocks, lights,handlebars, seat, exhaust protector etc ? This is the typical list of parts that will need replacing after a spill and can easily put people off fixing the bike up with original parts if they don't want to make an insurance claim that will increase their premium. Inevitably the bike gets bodged which means it loses any resale value.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That's a very good point - thanks for the suggestion Ian...

[@johnjriggsarchery2457]

It's a nice looking bike and as a vintage bike owner I appreciate It's retro styling. I just don't buy that it's anymore an AJS then my '73 Suzuki would be a Penton if I put a Penton sticker on the tank.

[@GB-Patriot]

I watched your review it was quite good but I prefer rev bombs review of the bike with a true reflection of top end speed.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for telling me! I prefer the comment above to yours.....