Motorcycle "Minsk": why they bought it and what was good about it

Many motorcyclists prefer bikes with a volume of 300 cc or more. cm, and anything less is considered almost a moped.

But are motorcycles with small volume really that bad?

The first plus that comes to mind is a fairly reasonable price, accessible to almost anyone.

Next comes the weight, I think you can lift 100-130 kg yourself, but now try to do the same with a powerful and heavy motorcycle, so at 300 kilograms, it’s quite difficult.

Another positive side is the relatively low fuel consumption. So, low power is not always bad.

One of the best motorcycles with a displacement of less than 300, or rather a volume of 125 cc. cm is "Minsk".

In this article we will look at the Minsk 125 series model range.

Briefly about the manufacturer

This motorcycle is produced by MMVZ (Minsk Motorcycle and Bicycle Plant), later it became known as “Motovelo”.

The first motorcycle that this plant produced (in 1951) was the “Moscow” M1A (it was copied from the German DKW RT 125).

It was he who became the progenitor of the classic bikes that Motovelo later produced.

In 2007 it became a private enterprise, and in 2010 it was renamed M1NSK. The company still produces reliable motorcycles of high quality.

Today it produces not only motorcycles, but ATVs, mopeds, also bicycles, exercise bikes, wheelchairs and much more.

Series lineup

At the moment, the plant produces 5 Minsk models with a volume of 125 cubic meters.
cm, let's look at each one separately. The C4 125 is perfect for beginners; it is easy to use, relatively lightweight and attractive in appearance.

Easily withstands temperatures ranging from -15 to +40°C. The wind shield performs its functions perfectly and protects against fine dirt, dust and leaves.

The elevated seating position makes the ride more comfortable; another plus is the drum brakes, which will last quite a long time. A distinctive feature of this model is the presence of a helmet rack at the rear.

More detailed technical characteristics of C4 125:

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Important advantage

It is very difficult to compete with the world leaders in the production of motorcycles. Nevertheless, the M1NSK brand remains afloat, and reviews from owners about its quality and technical characteristics are quite favorable. It seems because, while improving the technical characteristics of its models, the Belarusian manufacturer remains true to the main principle - simplicity and reliability.

In the event of a breakdown, the Minsk 125 motorcycle can be returned to service, having at hand an instruction manual, a repair manual and a simple set of tools. For places far from the centers of civilization, such simplicity is invaluable.

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Description of model C 125

The 125 is an easy-to-ride, universal motorcycle. It drives calmly on broken roads and is quite easy to maintain. Fuel consumption off-road is 3.5 - 4.0 liters, and on the highway 2.5 - 3.0 liters, quite economical.

High-quality tires deserve attention, thanks to which good grip is achieved; the wind deflector and drum brakes are the same as in the previous model.

Despite the maximum speed of 90 km/h, it is better to drive somewhere around 60-75 km/h, because at speeds above this a small but noticeable vibration appears.

Repair dimensions of the cylinder, piston, rings of the MMVZ Minsk motorcycle engines 125 cm3

Modern, simple and convenient D4 125

The D4 125 is a simple, comfortable and modern motorcycle.
A single-cylinder four-stroke engine with a power of 10.5/8000 (hp/rpm) will easily accelerate the bike to 100 km/h. The basic kit includes both an electric starter and a kick starter. Quite economical fuel consumption, about 2.6 liters.

The gearbox is easy to use, everything works easily and smoothly.

There are passenger footrests, although they are welded on, so even if you drive alone, you can’t get rid of them.

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Unpretentious M 125

The M 125 is an unpretentious lightweight motorcycle with a good single-cylinder two-stroke engine, comfortable steering wheel and drum brakes, good for country riding.

However, if you want, the manufacturer can change the drum brakes to disc brakes, which are more suitable for use in the city.

It handles well, has low fuel consumption, and is easy to repair and use. It’s not a bad model, although it does have its drawbacks; despite the good suspension, you feel a strong vibration while driving, which then causes your back and leg muscles to ache.

MMVZ

Minsk motorcycles were rapidly gaining popularity both in the USSR and in foreign markets.
Their deliveries were made to 45 countries around the world, and the total number exceeded 6.5 million. From the first years, the brand took an active part in motorsports, mainly in cross-country and circuit racing. The first cross country “Minsk M-201K” and enduro “M-201M” were created in 1956. Three samples of the first highway-ring ShK-125 with a record 23-horsepower engine for that time were produced in 1961. A decade later, the first road racing motorcycle with a developed fairing, the M-211, appeared, followed by the MMVZ-3.216 (1977) and MMVZ-3.227 (1986).

Significant milestones in the history of Minsk motorcycles were the Minsk-Pamir (1969) and Brest-Vladivostok (1971) motorcycle races.

A new model designation system, developed by the VNII-Motoprom of the USSR, was introduced in 1973 on the new Minsk MMVZ-3.111, which received the USSR State Quality Mark:

MMVZ - manufacturing plant;

3 - motorcycle class (up to 125 cm3);

1 — type of motorcycle (road);

11 - serial model number.

The reliability and unpretentiousness of Minsk motorcycles have made the Minsk brand iconic in Vietnam, which has become the largest export market. Vietnamese motorcycle fan club Minsk since 1988. holds gatherings for fans of the brand, which annually attract more than a thousand people. On the set of the Top Gear Vietnam Special, the Minsk motorcycle was driven by Richard Hammond.

By the early 1990s, motorcycle production had increased to 220,000 units per year. In 1999, the Minsk brand received the Arch of Europe Award for its approval in the international market.

Forester M 125X

The M 125X, also called the “Forester,” was originally created for off-road driving.
The engine has good traction at low speeds, which makes driving on rough roads easier. The maximum speed is 90 km/h.

There are three trunks, one metal in the back and two additional ones on the sides, a beautiful headlight, which is protected by a metal frame, and safety arches are also pleasing.

Despite all the good things, many owners complain about poor-quality factory assembly, due to which they have to repair the motorcycle almost a week after purchase.

Availability of spare parts and cost of the motorcycle

Another plus of these motorcycles is that they are easy to repair.

After all, spare parts for any Minsk model are quite easy to find.

You can buy them in auto stores, find them on the Internet, where there is a huge selection, or, in the end, you can order new spare parts from the manufacturer.

Approximate price of the bike

As mentioned earlier, motorcycles produced with a displacement of 125 cc. cm, they cost quite little for a bike.

The following prices are posted on the official website of the factory dealer:

These motorcycles can also be bought in used condition, then their price will be in the range of 15,000 rubles. up to 30,000 rubles, it all depends on the condition and mileage.

Verdict

The motorcycle is not distinguished by any special indicators of power, reliability, or individuality. At the same time, do not forget that the motorcycle has an affordable price. It is a technique suitable for trips to the country, to the forest, or leisurely driving in the city. Great as a first motorcycle.

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Photo gallery

Well, in conclusion of everything written above, we offer you a selection of photos of these Belarusian beauties. They will be a great purchase for a novice biker and will not put a big dent in your pocket.