2016 Lexmoto
Line
Lexmoto is the Exeter-based Chinese bike importer/brand that has been steadily growing
to become a major contender in the 125 cc market. For 2016, that growth look set
to continue with a range of new models mostly based around its existing engine
and frame platforms.
Aspire
The
Aspire is new for 2016 and uses the same frame as the existing ZSF 125, along
with the same 124 cc air-cooled engine. Thanks to its resigned fairing, it's
more modern and sharper looking than the ZSF, which help it look like it's
taken a small step away from the Yamaha YBR125 its based on.
It’s
got a new speedo and unlike the ZSF, has a rear disc brake rather than a drum.
It’s also got Kenda tyres, unlike the ZSF’s Weixing rubber. It costs £ 1,199.99
Assault
The
Assault is powered by a two-valve, OHC four-stroke engine with a balance shaft.
Contrary to what its knobbly tyres would have you believe, it’s not designed to
go off road, but Lexmoto told us it can deal with rugged roads and light use on
gravel. Lexmoto is pitching it as a rugged commuter, so it could be the ideal
cheap bike to use for commuting across pothole-ridden winter roads. It costs
£ 1,099.99.
Venom
SE
The
Venom is Lexmoto’s most popular bike - no surprise considering it's easily its
best looking. For 2016 it’s joined by a new SE version. The SE is mechanically
identical to the standard Venom but has a red frame and crash bars for those
prone to stunting or lobbing it. It’s only available in gunmetal grey and costs
£ 1,449.99 - £ 100 more than the standard Venom.
ZSX-F
and ZSX-R
The
ZSX-F and ZSX-R are both new for 2016, and built using the same frame as the
existing ZSX 125. Both bikes share the same 125 cc engine from the ZSX, which
for these models has had a reduction in its bore size (down to 52 mm from
58.5 mm) and an increase in stroke, plus new engine cases.
Unlike
the ZSX it shares so much DNA with, the new F model also has a half-faired
front end, plus a monoshock, unlike the twin rear shock of the existing ZSX. It
also has a luggage rack and some undseat storage. Its exhaust is made of
409-grade stainless steel, which is meant to address some corrosion problems
with the ZSX’s exhaust. It costs £ 1,499.99.
The
ZSF-R is essentially a naked version of the ZSX-F, built using the same engine
and exhaust. The R hasn’t got the luggage rack of the F or its front fairing,
but does have USD forks and a larger front brake disc and costs the same as the
F.
Oregon
The
Oregon is built around the engine and frame of the Assault, put together as a
custom-styled bike. Considering the price £ 1,099.99 price, it looks good with
decent bodywork and a nicely finished paint job.
