Photo: AJS
AJS doesn't exactly have the best brand visibility these days, but the historic English maker has not kicked the bucket. Here's one of their latest additions to the line-up, the new classic-looks Caldwell 125, a retro machine that could serve equally well as a first bike or economical and stylish commuter.
The AJS Caldwell 125 remains faithful to the British heritage and brings back memories some believed long gone. The Caldwell 125 is designed and engineered in England but manufactured in China. The information is rather scarce as to what engine was used to bring it to life, and whether it is an English mill or a Chinese one. Villiers Starmaker-derived engines are common in AJS bikes, so we'll just have to dig deeper.
However, the 124cc 4-stroke OHC single-cylinder powerplant is good for 9.5 hp @ 8,500 rpm, and is mated to a five-speed transmission. The top speed is around 60 mph (97 km/h) and this should be enough for urban and suburban commuting. Starting employs both a battery and a kick lever, so riding in colder weather should not cause any issues in the morning.
AJS doesn't say anything about fuel economy, but with a 11.2-liter (2.95 US gal) tank, the Caldwell 125 is expected to make rather rare refueling stops. Both brakes use discs and this accounts for firm stopping power, especially as the bike only tips the scales at 113 kg (249 lb). The air-cooled engine also helps the Caldwell 125 save a lot of weight, while also reducing the maintenance costs.
The AJS Caldwell 125 comes in glossy black or silver liveries, neatly complemented by chromed accents on the exhaust, mirrors, and headlight and gauge casings. The cafe-racer seat cowl is removable, too.
The list of accessories includes chromed fenders, a flat seat, side covers with race number plates, piggyback gas-charged shocks, and more. The Caldwell 125 is learner and A1-legal as well, and can be had in the UK for £1,898 (€2,250 or $2,500). No word on compliance with the Euro 4 emission regulations, but as the UK Brexited...
However, the 124cc 4-stroke OHC single-cylinder powerplant is good for 9.5 hp @ 8,500 rpm, and is mated to a five-speed transmission. The top speed is around 60 mph (97 km/h) and this should be enough for urban and suburban commuting. Starting employs both a battery and a kick lever, so riding in colder weather should not cause any issues in the morning.
AJS doesn't say anything about fuel economy, but with a 11.2-liter (2.95 US gal) tank, the Caldwell 125 is expected to make rather rare refueling stops. Both brakes use discs and this accounts for firm stopping power, especially as the bike only tips the scales at 113 kg (249 lb). The air-cooled engine also helps the Caldwell 125 save a lot of weight, while also reducing the maintenance costs.
The AJS Caldwell 125 comes in glossy black or silver liveries, neatly complemented by chromed accents on the exhaust, mirrors, and headlight and gauge casings. The cafe-racer seat cowl is removable, too.
The list of accessories includes chromed fenders, a flat seat, side covers with race number plates, piggyback gas-charged shocks, and more. The Caldwell 125 is learner and A1-legal as well, and can be had in the UK for £1,898 (€2,250 or $2,500). No word on compliance with the Euro 4 emission regulations, but as the UK Brexited...
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