Cagiva · 1983–1987
Cagiva Aletta Rossa 125: history and buying advice
The water-cooled 125 with the Dakar look that became a hit in 1983.
History
In 1983 Cagiva launched the Aletta Rossa 125. The engine was derived from the air-cooled SXT 125, but now with liquid cooling and six gears. With a Dakar-style fairing and headlamp and a long, comfortable seat it was an instant success: in autumn 1983 Cagiva received around 12,000 orders.
A revised version followed in 1984, and there was also a 200. An Aletta Rossa 200 for America remained a prototype; Cagiva chose the Elefant 125 and 200 for that market. The Aletta Oro was the sportier road version with the same kind of engine.
Key data
| Engine | 1 cylinder two-stroke, reed valve inlet, liquid-cooled |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 124.6 cc |
| Power | over 15 hp at 7000 rpm |
| Gears | six |
| Top speed | approx. 114 km/h |
| Brakes | 240 mm disc front, 125 mm drum rear |
| Wheels | 21 inch front, 18 inch rear |
What to check when buying
- Restoration projects are often cheap, but fairing parts and decals are hard to find. Check that the plastic parts are complete and intact.
- Check the cooling system: radiator, hoses and water pump for leaks.
- Do a compression test and ask about the piston; many 125s have been ridden hard.
- Check whether the engine was ever tuned or restricted, and whether that matches the papers.
- Compare the frame and engine numbers with the papers.
SourcesInSella: Cagiva Aletta Rossa 125 (Italian)Wikipedia: Cagiva (English)