Review and technical characteristics of Minsk m 125

Review of the legendary motorcycle Minsk 125

Classic motorcycle technology will always be in fashion and motorcycles from the USSR are still considered leaders in Russia.
The Minsk 125 is considered one of the most memorable vehicles. To this day, satisfied owners of Minsk consider this model the most successful, because it is a universal, powerful and durable vehicle. In Minsk you could drive on any roads, be it a city highway or a harsh broken road. The seating position of the motorcycle is more than comfortable; even a beginner could easily figure out this model.

Pros:

• relatively powerful engine;
• easy repairs and available parts;
• simple and robust design;
• low fuel consumption.

Minuses:

• the power and simplicity of the motorcycle are not suitable for experienced riders;
• Few copies have survived to this day.

Appearance tuning Minsk

Every Minsk 125 owner has at least once thought about the appearance of his motorcycle. Perhaps we should start by repainting the frame and other parts of the motorcycle. The first thing to do is remove the handlebars, seat, tank, engine, wheels, fork and other parts to leave a bare frame. Sandblast the parts to be repainted or remove the old paint layer using special attachments for an angle grinder/drill. An attachment on a drill for an emery wheel with Velcro is also very effective for this. Be sure to get rid of pockets of corrosion. The next stage is puttying. This is necessary to get rid of deep scratches and level the surface. Parts with a leveled surface are degreased to prepare for priming. Apply primer in 2 layers. The dried soil should be sanded with 400 grit sandpaper. Then we paint it in the color we like in 2-3 layers, followed by a layer of varnish in 3 layers. The metallic color on your Minsk 125 motorcycle will look very impressive.

The next method of tuning Minsk is polishing the engine crankcase to a mirror finish. This procedure can also be done with your own hands using a set of sandpaper with grit from 120-180 to 2500. By sanding the surface of the engine in steps from coarse to finer, you will achieve an ideal matte surface. At the end of this work, use GOI paste, a felt circle and a drill to achieve the final mirror surface. The Minsk motorcycle engine will immediately be transformed!

This procedure applies to the rims, spokes and muffler - this will help them shine in a new way.

New road tires would be a good investment. The new tread pattern is not only effective when driving on wet asphalt, but also looks attractive. Replacing lighting equipment will also appeal to everyone. For example, LED turn signals and brake lights will not only give a modern appearance, but will also reduce the load on the generator, and will also increase road safety when driving at night. Separately, it is worth noting the efficiency of xenon installation. The recommended heat of light is 4300k as it is the most neutral white light, does not cause eye fatigue and provides the best illumination. A useful tuning in Minsk will be the installation of new chrome mirrors, which will also significantly increase riding safety and complement the transformation of the motorcycle. In conclusion, I would like to note that these tuning actions can be carried out selectively at will and combined according to your taste and financial capabilities.

Technical characteristics Minsk 125

Due to its owner-friendly technical characteristics, many experts have recognized this model as the easiest to operate. The Minsk Bicycle Plant in Belarus began producing the motorcycle. To maximize seating comfort, the manufacturer decided to set the average saddle height to 800 mm.

For better operation on difficult roads, it was decided to install rear shock absorbers, and 17-inch aluminum wheels are additionally responsible for better acceleration. The maximum speed is 5,900, but even at low speeds the motorcycle can show excellent speed.

In those days, manufacturers installed the most necessary elements on motorcycles, so the steering wheel received a minimum of parts and unnecessary functions. There is a simple instrument panel and audible alarm.

Review of the Minsk 125 motorcycle

This model appeared a long time ago, but then it already had competitors with a large engine capacity and a stylish look. But Minsk 125 was able to gain great popularity precisely because of its simplicity and relatively low price. With a fairly light weight, the handling allows almost anyone to operate the motorcycle. For better maneuverability and stability on difficult roads, a strong frame was developed, the material for which was stainless steel.

The Minsk 125 engine is especially reliable and unpretentious; the manufacturer did a good job to create an original engine with one cylinder for 2 strokes and a power of 11 horses. Also, to improve engine performance and reliability, the cylinder surface is made of ceramic material, which is rarely used on such equipment. Like most motorcycles of those times, no one could afford liquid cooling, so Minsk has an air system. A 4-speed manual transmission is responsible for smooth and uninterrupted operation. Often people buy this model for riding in the countryside and on difficult roads, and the motorcycle copes with its duties perfectly.

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.

Weaknesses and shortcomings of the Minsk 125 motorcycle engine

The MMVZ two-stroke engine with a volume of 125 cm³ has been produced by the Minsk Motorcycle Plant for many years. From 1951 to the present, two-stroke 125 cc engines have been and continue to be produced in various models and modifications. The first motorcycle engine was 4.25 liters. s., at this time, the engine power is 12 hp. With. Structurally, no global changes were made to the internal combustion engine. The cooling remains the same air with two-channel return blowing. Despite the experience of world manufacturers of motorcycle engines using an ejector, the Minsk plant, unfortunately, did not replace the carburetor with an ejector, but it’s a pity, the engine would have had even more advantages.

Ignition system

The standard Minsk ignition system does not always successfully cope with its tasks. Therefore, it makes sense to carry out the revision carefully and carefully. Just like with Izh Planet 5 tuning, here they primarily work with the ignition timing.

The model has a good generator, as well as contactless ignition with an electronic switch. But, there is no possibility to change the advance angle depending on the operating mode of the moped engine. Therefore, it is recommended to install a device that forms the angle depending on the need at a given time.

You can buy it in a store; a part from any motorcycle with a similar volume will do. The connection is not complicated, so there shouldn't be any problems. The use of such a device allows you to change the ignition timing depending on engine speed. This approach significantly improves engine efficiency and also increases its power.

History of creation and international success

Motorcycles from the Minsk company appeared on the market back in 1951. Over its 70-year history, the manufacturer has sold more than 7 million motorcycles in more than 50 countries.

The basic model is the M1A motorcycle. Modifications of this model have become widely known due to their versatility - the vehicle is suitable for both simple road driving and off-road use with an installed Enduro power unit.

After World War II, German in the USSR, or more precisely in Moscow. There the plant began producing the first motorcycle models under the M1A brand. In 1951, the production of this brand of motorcycle was transferred to the Minsk Motorcycle Plant.

A large number of Minsk motor vehicles were sent to Vietnam and other Asian countries. This was facilitated by the high quality of components, powerful technical performance and affordable price. Such success led to a worldwide calling, and engineers had to modify their own line. In Vietnam, they even organized a fan club for motorcycles, Minsk, which officially opened in 1988. It is noteworthy that the club annually celebrates motorcycle day, attracting an increasing number of members and fans of this equipment.

In 1991, the Minsk motorcycle received an update that brought its technical performance to almost its maximum. That year, the number of products produced reached 225 thousand every year.

In 1999, the vehicle received the prestigious international “European Arc” award, which once again emphasizes the value of the motorcycle outside the countries of the former Soviet Union. After that, the award-winning model was modified several times, which increased the demand for it in Europe.

External tuning

Drivers often wonder how to paint a motorcycle. In general, this is also tuning. It is better not to change the color radically, just apply different designs. This way you can be guaranteed to avoid problems with traffic police officers. Be sure to install a windshield and protective arches.

This not only improves safety, but also significantly increases travel comfort. Alloy wheels are often installed. They have a more beautiful appearance, increasing the attractiveness of the motorcycle. Another type of tuning that is often found is making the lights brighter. In fact, it's not worth doing this.

It will not be possible to significantly increase the illumination of the road, but the load on the generator will increase. Therefore, think about whether you are ready to regularly repair the generator for the sake of a little brighter light.

Minsk was perhaps the most widespread and accessible of the motorcycles of the Soviet Union. Produced at the Minsk plant, it enjoyed deserved popularity among motorsports enthusiasts and ordinary citizens for its low price, ease of operation and good maintainability. This unpretentious motorcycle could serve as both the first vehicle for a novice motorcyclist and a workhorse for many residents of cities and rural areas.

The ancestor of the Minsk motorcycle was the motorcycle of the German DKW center, the equipment for the production of which was exported from Germany as reparations in 1945. The production of the first models was established in Moscow, but then by 1951 production facilities were transferred to Minsk. The first motorcycle rolled off the assembly line of the Minsk Motorcycle and Bicycle Plant back in 1951. For more than 60 years of production of motorcycles of this brand, more than 6.5 million Minsk motorcycles have been sold worldwide.

Tuned motorcycle Minsk 125

But this mass-produced motorcycle, like any other equipment, of course, has its certain drawbacks. The main ones include:

1. The rather weak engine is the most powerful available in the basic version, only 13 hp.
2. A poorly designed clutch that can slip even after the motorcycle has been driven for a long time.
3. On early models, the arrangement of the crankshaft bearings was poorly thought out.
4. Weak braking system.

But this amazing motorcycle provides its enthusiastic owners with ample opportunities to implement tuning ideas. And, although in the basic version, even with the most powerful engine, the Minsk motorcycle could hardly accelerate to 100 km/h, as a result of competently and responsibly carried out tuning from this beloved, but still not very technically advanced product of the Minsk plant, it is possible to make a truly nimble, responsive and fast motorcycle, not much inferior to its expensive foreign counterparts.

Motorcycle styling Minsk 125

Specifications

Technical indicators should be divided into two categories: external and internal.

External characteristics

The length of the motorcycle is 2.1 meters. The height is 1.2 meters with a distance between the axes of 1.32 meters. The size of the rudder line is 0.8 meters. The ground clearance is 12.5 cm.

The Minsk motorcycle reaches a maximum speed of 95 km per hour with a maximum permissible passenger weight of 165 kg.

Internal characteristics

The power unit of the Minsk motorcycle has always been unpretentious in operation, remaining extremely reliable even by modern standards.

The motorcycle engine is gasoline-based, with one cylinder, the diameter of which is 0.52 cm. The piston stroke is 0.58 cm with an engine displacement of 125 cc. see. Maximum engine power is 12 horsepower at 6.9 thousand rpm.

The lineup

Now the plant in Minsk specializes in the production of three types of motorcycles:

At the moment, the most affordable and popular are the following Minsk motorcycle models:

All of these models have an engine capacity of 125 cubic centimeters to achieve the maximum balance of performance and efficiency.

Minsk S 125

This model is considered basic. The motorcycle is considered an SUV, so most Minsk motorcycles are produced on its basis. For off-road driving, the motorcycle is equipped with high-strength rubber, with which the warrior can reach speeds of up to 60 km per hour.

Engine with two strokes and one cylinder. This power unit is enough for a comfortable ride. Over 100 kilometers traveled, the motorcycle will “eat” 3 liters of gasoline. When traveling over rough terrain, this figure will increase to 4 liters.

The engine is started using a kickstarter. This system provides reliability in all weather conditions.

Many users mistake the C 125 for a moped. This is facilitated by its small dimensions and two-stroke engine.

Watch a video review of the Minsk S 125 motorcycle:

Minsk D4 125

The power unit is also with one cylinder, but with four strokes. The model belongs to the sports category. The number of revolutions that the motorcycle produces allows you to maintain high speed driving for a long period of time.

The maximum speed is 100 km per hour. For quick acceleration, a gearbox with five gears is installed. Gasoline consumption per 100 km of driving will be only 2.6 liters. A big plus is the presence of an electric starter.

The vehicle weight is 100 kg. Many drivers consider the presence of a welded footrest for passengers to be a disadvantage, because it cannot be removed.

Watch a video review of the Minsk D4 125 motorcycle:

Minsk M 125

M 125 is the most popular model in the company's line of motorcycles. This success is based on low maintenance. Many users say that the M 125 is simply impossible to kill.

The motorcycle has a single cylinder, two stroke engine. Fuel consumption is also minimal: over 100 kilometers traveled, the gas tank will be empty by 2.5 liters.

The standard version is equipped with drum brakes, which can be replaced with disc brakes. As an additional option, you can order a stroller for carrying cargo. Model weight – 122 kg.

Watch a video review of the Minsk M 125 motorcycle:

Total

The M1nsk company took the right path, using the name of a well-known brand and seriously concerned about quality control. Despite its Chinese origin, the Minsk D4 125 motorcycle is really reliable in operation, and with proper care there are no problems with it. It is also not difficult to find spare parts and consumables for it, since the manufacturer actively supports all produced motorcycles. So if you are looking for your first motorcycle, budget and simple in design, the Minsk D4 125 is worth taking a closer look at. This is not to say that it is better than all other 125 cc competitors, but it is better than many, that’s for sure, and reviews about it are mostly positive.

Motorcycle "Minsk": technical characteristics and success in the international market

The products of the Belarusian enterprise “Motovelo”, located in Minsk, are famous far beyond the country’s borders. Motorcycles and scooters, snowmobiles and ATVs - all these machines in a full range are produced today in workshops equipped with modern equipment. Spare parts for the Minsk motorcycle and for all other cars that are assembled at the plant are made here in a separate production facility.

Success

The Minsk motorcycle, whose technical characteristics already met the best standards, began its triumphal march back in 1951, and since then more than six and a half million copies have been sold worldwide. The reliable two-wheeled car was bought in 45 countries, on all continents. The M1A motorcycle became the founder of a whole series of models for various purposes, ranging from a simple road version to a powerful enduro class unit.

The Minsk motorcycle, whose technical characteristics, parameters and relatively low cost suited foreign buyers, began to be exported in large quantities to Vietnam and other countries in the South Asian region. The vast market demanded an increase in supplies, and MMVZ constantly increased production. Vietnamese fans of the Minsk motorcycle organized a fan club in 1988, which meets regularly, annually celebrates its anniversary and attracts new members to its ranks.

Power point

The two-stroke engine of the Minsk motorcycle of the MMVZ-3.112 brand was unpretentious in maintenance and quite reliable.

• type - gasoline;
• number of cylinders - 1;
• piston stroke - 58 mm;
• cylinder diameter - 52 mm;
• working volume - 123.6 cubic cm;
• compression degree - 10.5;
• power supply: K-62S carburetor;
• cooling - air;
• fuel - A76 gasoline, mixed with oil in a ratio of 25: 1;
• maximum power - 12 hp. at 6900 rpm.

Minsk M 125X photo

We have collected the top 1 photos of the M 125X and made a high quality photo gallery from them. This will help you evaluate the appearance. Click on the photo you are interested in to open it in high resolution. Click on the right side of the picture to switch to the next one.

Engine

Transmission

Dimensions and weight

Chassis and brakes

Motorcycle "Minsk" in sports

In 1956 of the last century, the first cross-country model “M-201K” and mountain enduro “M-201M” were created. Both cars competed successfully and showed good results.

In 1961, the ShK-125 appeared - a version for road racing with a 23 hp super engine, which allowed it to reach speeds of up to 180 kilometers per hour. However, the car was let down by the chassis; the insufficiently strong rear suspension caused the motorcycle to retire from the race.

And only ten years later MMVZ again returned to the topic of racing models. In 1970, the M-211 was created - a powerful sports motorcycle for circuit competitions. The developed fairing that was on the 211th version can today be seen on Japanese Honda and Yamaha sportbikes.

In 1977, the super motorcycle “3.216” appeared, which won one prize after another. And later in 1986, the exclusive MMVZ-2.227 was created - the future record holder.

Modifications

The range of road motorcycles "Minsk" includes 17 different versions:

• the pioneer among all is, of course, the M1A-Moscow, manufactured in 1951;
• "M1M" was produced from 1956 to 1961;
• "M-103" was produced from 1962 to 1964;
• “M-104” - the model was in production from 1964 to 1967;
• "M-105" - (1967 - 1971);
• "M-106" was produced from 1971 to 1973;
• "MMVZ-3.111" was produced in the period 1973 - 1976;
• “3.115” - years of production 1976 - 1980;
• "3.112" was produced from 1982 to 1995.

In subsequent years, modifications were produced: “MINSK - D4-125”, “CX-200”, “R-250”, “C4-250”, “C4-200”, “M-125”, “M-125X”, "S4-125", "S-125".

Three enduro class models were also created:

A separate list includes sports modifications:

• models “M-201K” and “M-201M”, released in 1956 and intended for multi-day competitions;
• "Minsk ShK-125" - road-circuit racing;
• "M-213" (1969) - multi-day competition;
• MINSK RX 450, MINSK RX 250, MMVZ-3.221, 3.225, MMVZ-3.229 - motocross;
• "3.227" was produced between 1987 and 1991 for circuit racing;
• model "MMVZ-3.232", produced in 1993, for trial competitions.

An era of stability

Next model

In 1956, the Minsk plant produced a modernized version of the M1A - M1M. It had a softer ride than its predecessor, which is why in areas with many holes and potholes it could lose stability, which sometimes led to a fall.

Motorcycle M1A

This is one of the shortcomings. The advantages include an increased maximum load and speed, allowing the speedometer to approach the mark of 75 km/h. Also, electrical equipment was used on this motorcycle for the first time in the series. In general, that's all.

Model “M103”

The production of “M1M” lasted five years - from 1956 to 1961. The shift arrived in 1962. It became a generalization of many years of experience of the Minsk plant. The suspension was made stiffer so that riders would no longer fall on bad or simply uneven sections of the road. We changed the filters in the engine to more modern ones, which significantly increased its lifespan.

Motorcycle Minsk M-103

Load capacity and speed were left, in general, unchanged. Fans of the motorcycle were upset that the single-seater design of the device was also left unchanged. However, for this model it was supposed to be possible to purchase an additional seat for a passenger for an additional fee. But who needs it? It would be better if everything was equipped right away, at the factory, as it should be,” Soviet users were indignant.

Model “Minsk”

The next generation change occurred in 1964. Actually, this particular motorcycle had the word “Minsk” in its name; previous versions were called that by the people, for the sake of clarity and simplicity. Compared to its predecessors, it turned out to be more stylish, or something

When designing it, considerable attention was paid to appearance. Engine power also increased to 5.5 hp

And, lo and behold, for the first time on this model there was also room for a passenger.

New word. "M105".

This particular motorcycle can be considered an evolution in the development of this series. A four-speed gearbox was used for the first time. Engine power increased to a respectable 7 hp, which made it possible to reach a speed of 80 km/h. Also, for the first time, a brake light was installed to increase road safety, and a light bulb was attached to the speedometer for illumination. Production lasted until 1971.

Now also with a trunk. “M106”

In addition to the rear trailer for payloads, the tank volume has also increased - 12 liters. And the engine power had now increased to 9 hp, and now the motorcycle could accelerate to a speed of 85 km per hour. The weight of the car was now exactly a hundredweight.

Hipster. “MMVZ-3.111”

Having replaced the previous model in 1973, MMVZ-3.111 stood out for its modern and fashionable appearance. The speed increased to a respectable 95 km/h. A light switch for high and low beams, as well as a direction indicator, appeared.

Motorcycle Minsk MMVZ 3.111

This motorcycle received the “USSR Quality Mark”. A “Sport” model was also released, which had a 12 hp engine.

Cosmetic changes. “MMVZ-3.115”

As the name suggests, no special innovations were introduced. Only the speedometer and switch were moved into separate housings, and a new muffler and headlights were installed. Year of manufacture: from 1976 to 1980.

Logical progress. “MMVZ-3.112”

Expert opinion Isaac Yakovich Zelder Soviet astrophysicist, physical chemist, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Academician of the USSR Academy of Sciences, designer, engineer. Hero of Socialist Labor of the USSR.

Yes, this is not a mistake, the next model had a smaller number in its name than the previous one. Some factory marking features.

This motorcycle was externally similar to its predecessor, but was superior to it in a number of parameters. He “lost” the weight by 7 kg, while increasing the load capacity by 10. He became more comfortable to ride. The speed remained the same, but the engine power was now a confident 12 hp. Produced from 1980 to 1995. A number of modifications were made, which were mainly intended for rural areas.

Price

The Minsk motorcycle, the price of which was always kept at a budget level, was accessible to all segments of the population of the former USSR. In some regions it was used as an incentive prize for particularly distinguished employees, machine operators, farmers, and shock workers of communist labor.

Currently, the Minsk motorcycle, the price of which varies from 65 to 145 thousand rubles, can be purchased at the car market. Before purchasing, it would be a good idea to evaluate the technical condition of the car from an expert point of view for further restoration. If a motorcycle is purchased for the purpose of operation, then it will necessarily require repairs, routine or major. Therefore, the future owner must make sure that the necessary spare parts can be freely purchased at retail.