1978 Husqvarna CR125

The 1978 Husqvarna CR125 was a premium, robust contender in the highly competitive 125cc racing class. Esteemed for its distinct "big-bike feel" and excellent high-speed chassis stability, this Swedish-built 2-stroke was engineered during an era when Japanese manufacturers were rapidly accelerating dirt bike development. It offered a torque-focused, heavy-duty alternative designed to conquer the most brutal, rutted motocross circuits.

This example has been restored with a rebuilt motor, suspension, and new paint.

Historical Significance & Evolution

  • The Competition Era: Released at a time when the 125cc class was exploding in popularity, the CR125 went wheel-to-wheel with peaky, ultra-lightweight Japanese machinery like the Honda CR125M and Kawasaki KX125.

  • The Premium Approach: Unlike its high-strung competitors, Husqvarna prioritized low-end grunt, midrange pull, and tracking confidence over outright featherweight agility.

  • A VMX Icon: As one of the final iterations before major industry shifts in suspension and cooling technologies, the 1978 model has become a highly prized staple for vintage motocross (VMX) preservationists and racers today.

Model Generation

1978 CR series

Market Segment

Professional Motocross / Closed-Course Racing

Estimated Original MSRP

$1,425 USD (approximately 20% higher than Japanese peers)

Current Collector Value

$3,000 to $7,000+ (depending on restoration tier)

Technical Specifications


Engine & Powertrain

  • Engine Type: 124cc air-cooled, single-cylinder, two-stroke with reed-valve induction

  • Performance: 26 horsepower @ 10,400 RPM

  • Carburetion: Bing 32 mm carburetor

  • Drivetrain: 6-speed manual gearbox paired with a traditional kick-starter

Chassis & Performance

  • Suspension: Simple steel cradle frame equipped with 35 mm front forks (250 mm travel) and dual Girling rear shock absorbers (260 mm travel)

  • Braking System: Mechanical internal expanding drum brakes (160 mm front, 140 mm rear)

  • Dry Weight: Approximately 90 kg (198 lbs)

  • Fuel Capacity: 7.8-liter (2.0-gallon) fuel tank

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