Quick Analysis
Aprilia Storm 125
11.0 pts
Unweighted: 5 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Sportster S
20.5 pts
Unweighted: 17 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air‑cooled | Liquid‑cooled |
| Displacement | 124.45 cc | 1,252 cc |
| Engine Type | Single‑cylinder, 4‑stroke, air‑cooled, 3‑valve | Revolution Max 1250T V‑twin (DOHC, VVT) |
| Power | 9.92 PS @ 7700 rpm | 122.3 PS @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | 9.7 Nm @ 6000 rpm | 125 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 6.5 L | 11.7 L |
| Mileage | 40 kmpl | 19.6 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 118 | 228 |
| Seat Height | 780 | 765 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | No, CBS | Cornering (dual-channel) ABS |
| Front Brake | Ø 220 mm disc with hydraulic control assisted by CBS | 320 mm Disc |
| Front Suspension | Hydraulic double-telescopic fork | 43 mm inverted fork with compression, rebound and spring preload adjustability. Aluminum fork triple clamps. |
| Rear Brake | Ø 140 mm drum brake | 260 mm Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Mono Shock Absorber | Linkage-mounted, piggyback monoshock with compression, rebound and hydraulic spring preload adjustability |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/80‑12 | 160/70 R17 Dunlop Harley‑Davidson radial |
| Rear Tyre | 130/80‑12 | 180/70 R16 Dunlop Harley‑Davidson radial |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Radial, tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V / 5 Ah | 12 V, 12 Ah, 225 CCA |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sr_storm_yellow-scaled.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Brilliant-red-1.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Mystic-shift-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Vivid-Black-2.avif |
| Cluster | Analogue + digital console | 4‑in full‑color TFT display |
| Color Options | Matte Red | #e3292f Matte Yellow| #ffff00 | Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Brilliant Red | #A01824 Mystic Shift | #4B4F59 |
| Cons | The seat is firm and compact, which can feel less comfortable on longer rides or with a pillion. The suspension is firm, so rough or pothole-laden roads transmit more bumps to the rider. Fuel tank capacity is modest at 6.5 litres, limiting range for longer trips. Storage space is limited, restricting the ability to carry larger items or full-face helmets comfortably. Being a smaller-displacement scooter, highway cruising is limited, and top speeds are moderate. | Rear Suspension Travel Is Limited – The motorcycle's low profile comes at the expense of suspension travel, which can make sharp bumps and rough roads more noticeable. Fuel Tank Capacity Is Smaller Than Expected – The relatively compact fuel tank can require more frequent fuel stops than some riders might anticipate from a large-capacity motorcycle. Riding Position Can Feel Unusual – The combination of mid-to-forward controls and a relatively upright upper body position doesn't suit every rider, especially on longer journeys. Passenger Accommodation Is Minimal – The motorcycle is clearly designed with the rider as the priority, and pillion comfort is limited in stock form. Engine Heat Is Noticeable in Traffic – The high-performance engine can generate considerable heat during slow-moving urban riding. Not as Relaxed as Traditional Cruisers – Riders expecting the laid-back feel of motorcycles such as the Fat Boy or Heritage Classic may find the Sportster S considerably more focused and demanding. Limited Touring Practicality – There is little wind protection, no integrated luggage, and fewer long-distance touring conveniences than Harley's cruiser-touring models. |
| Detailed Overview | The Aprilia Storm 125 is positioned as a 125cc scooter that combines everyday usability with a slightly rugged and sporty design approach. At its core, it uses a 124.45cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces close to 10 PS of power and around 9.7 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a CVT automatic transmission, which keeps the riding experience simple and smooth, especially in city traffic. The throttle response feels linear, and while it is not tuned for aggressive performance, it delivers enough power for regular commuting, short bursts of acceleration, and occasional overtakes. One of the distinguishing aspects of the Storm 125 is its design and tyre setup. Unlike most scooters in this segment, it features chunkier, wider tyres that are intended to offer better grip on uneven or broken roads. This, combined with its slightly upright riding stance, gives the scooter a more planted feel when riding over rough patches or poorly maintained streets. The suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear, which is tuned to handle typical urban road conditions. It manages bumps reasonably well, although sharper potholes can still be felt depending on speed. The overall dimensions and weight make it manageable for a wide range of riders. Its lightweight construction helps with maneuverability in traffic and makes it easier to handle at low speeds. The seat height is accessible, and the riding posture is neutral, allowing riders to sit upright without putting too much strain on the back or wrists. This makes it suitable for daily commutes, short errands, and general urban usage. In terms of braking, the Storm 125 comes with a front disc brake and a rear drum brake, supported by a combined braking system (CBS). This setup provides adequate stopping power for city riding conditions and helps maintain stability during braking. The 12-inch wheels also contribute to balance and control, especially when navigating through crowded streets. The feature list on the Storm 125 is relatively simple compared to some of its competitors. It includes a semi-digital instrument cluster that displays essential information such as speed, fuel level, and trip details. The lighting setup is conventional, and there are no advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth or navigation. Storage space is also fairly standard, with under-seat storage that is enough for basic daily items but not particularly spacious. From a practical standpoint, the scooter focuses on ease of use and straightforward functionality. The fuel tank capacity is around 6.5 litres, which, combined with its efficiency, provides a reasonable riding range for city use. Maintenance requirements are similar to other scooters in this category, and the mechanical simplicity helps keep things uncomplicated for everyday ownership. Overall, the Aprilia Storm 125 presents itself as a scooter that blends a slightly rugged design with city-friendly performance and handling, offering a different approach compared to more feature-focused or comfort-oriented options in the 125cc segment. | The Sportster S represents a very different chapter in the history of Harley-Davidson’s Sportster line. For decades, the Sportster name was associated with air-cooled V-twin engines, relatively simple technology, and a riding experience rooted in traditional cruiser values. The current Sportster S moves away from that formula and adopts a platform that shares far more with modern performance motorcycles than with its predecessors. While the styling still carries some Harley-Davidson influence, much of the motorcycle’s engineering has been developed around a different set of priorities. The most significant change is found in the engine. Instead of using an air-cooled V-twin, the Sportster S is powered by Harley-Davidson’s Revolution Max 1250T engine. This 1,252cc liquid-cooled V-twin is a stressed member of the chassis, meaning it contributes to the motorcycle’s structural rigidity rather than simply sitting within a frame. The engine produces its power differently from traditional Harley-Davidson motors, with a broader operating range and a willingness to rev higher. A six-speed gearbox transfers power to the rear wheel, while electronic engine management systems oversee throttle response, fuel delivery, and rider-assistance functions. Visually, the motorcycle is defined by a compact body, a short rear section, and a high-mounted dual exhaust system positioned on the right side. The fuel tank shape appears larger than it actually is because part of the visible structure functions as a cover, while the fuel itself is stored lower within the chassis. This layout helps centralize mass and contributes to the motorcycle’s proportions. The actual fuel capacity is 11.8 litres, which is smaller than what is commonly found on many touring-oriented motorcycles. The chassis differs substantially from Harley-Davidson’s traditional cruiser platforms. Rather than using a steel frame with conventional architecture, the Sportster S combines the engine with separate front and rear frame sections. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock, both of which offer adjustment options. Compared to many cruisers, the suspension components are more performance-oriented in both design and appearance. Wheel and tyre specifications also play a major role in defining the motorcycle’s character. The Sportster S uses wide tyres at both ends, including a particularly large front tyre that immediately stands out. This setup contributes to the motorcycle’s visual identity and influences steering feel and overall handling behaviour. Braking is managed through a single front disc with a radial-mounted Brembo caliper and a rear disc brake, supported by modern electronic systems. Technology forms a larger part of the package than it does on many traditional Harley-Davidson models. A round TFT display serves as the motorcycle’s instrument cluster and allows access to a range of vehicle settings. Through this interface, riders can view ride information, adjust ride modes, and interact with connectivity features. The motorcycle includes selectable ride modes, traction control, cornering-enhanced ABS, wheel-lift mitigation, engine braking control, and cruise control. These systems are managed through sensors that continuously monitor riding conditions and rider inputs. The riding position differs from both conventional cruisers and naked motorcycles. Mid-to-forward-mounted foot controls place the rider’s legs ahead of the body, while the handlebar keeps the upper body relatively upright. The seat height of approximately 765 mm is higher than many Harley-Davidson cruisers, reflecting the motorcycle’s different chassis layout and intended riding dynamics. Taken together, the Sportster S combines a liquid-cooled Revolution Max engine, electronically managed rider aids, adjustable suspension, TFT instrumentation, and a compact chassis architecture. Its specification sheet reflects a motorcycle developed around modern engineering solutions while retaining a visual connection to Harley-Davidson’s broader lineup. |
| Expert Review | The Aprilia Storm 125 comes across as a sporty-looking 125cc scooter that focuses more on rugged styling and everyday usability than outright performance. It is powered by a 124cc three-valve engine producing around 9.5–10 PS, which feels smooth and refined for city riding, though not the quickest when compared to rivals like the Ntorq. Acceleration is decent for daily traffic, but it requires a bit of throttle input to feel lively, especially during overtakes. The standout element is its chunkier tyres and upright riding stance, which give it better grip and confidence on rough or broken roads, making it slightly more versatile than typical scooters. Suspension is tuned for comfort, and the lightweight body helps with easy handling in urban conditions. However, the feature list remains basic, with a simple semi-digital console and no advanced connectivity, while practicality is average with limited storage space., 4, MotoAutiv Team | The Sportster S is one of the most significant departures Harley-Davidson has made from its traditional formula in recent years. Despite carrying the Sportster name, the motorcycle feels fundamentally different from the air-cooled models that built the badge's reputation. The Revolution Max 1250T engine is the centerpiece of the experience, delivering performance that feels considerably stronger and more urgent than what many riders expect from a Harley-Davidson cruiser. The chassis and electronics package have been developed to match that performance, giving the bike handling and braking capabilities that place it closer to modern roadsters and power cruisers than traditional cruisers. At the same time, the Sportster S makes a few compromises in pursuit of its aggressive styling and performance-focused character. Suspension travel is limited, the riding position can feel unusual on longer rides, and touring practicality is not a priority. What emerges is a motorcycle that feels deliberately different from the rest of Harley-Davidson's cruiser lineup. Rather than focusing on heritage and nostalgia, it emphasizes performance, technology, and a more contemporary interpretation of what a Harley-Davidson can be., 4.5, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the mileage of the Aprilia Storm 125? A: The scooter offers a real-world mileage of around 35–40 km/l, depending on traffic and riding style. Q: Is the Aprilia Storm 125 good for daily commuting? A: Yes, it works well for city commuting due to its smooth engine, lightweight body, and easy handling in traffic. Q: How is the performance of the Aprilia Storm 125? A: The 124cc engine produces around 10 PS and offers decent performance for city use, though it is not the quickest in its segment. Q: What makes the Aprilia Storm 125 different from other scooters? A: Its chunky tyres and slightly rugged design give it better grip and confidence on uneven or rough roads compared to typical scooters. Q: Is the Aprilia Storm 125 comfortable for long rides? A: It is more suited for short to medium rides, as the seat and overall setup are designed mainly for city use rather than long-distance comfort. Q: What is the top speed of the Aprilia Storm 125? A: The scooter has a top speed of around 90 km/h, which is adequate for urban riding. Q: Does the Aprilia Storm 125 come with modern features? A: It gets a semi-digital console and basic features, but it lacks advanced connectivity or smart features seen in some rivals. Q: Is the Aprilia Storm 125 suitable for beginners? A: Yes, it is easy to ride with automatic transmission and predictable performance, making it beginner-friendly. | Q: Which engine powers the Sportster S? A: The motorcycle uses Harley-Davidson's 1,252cc Revolution Max 1250T liquid-cooled V-twin engine. Q: Is the Sportster S air-cooled? A: No. Unlike older Sportster models, the Sportster S uses a liquid-cooled engine. Q: How is the Sportster S different from older Sportsters? A: The Sportster S uses a completely different platform with a liquid-cooled engine, TFT display, ride modes, traction control, and a more performance-focused chassis. Q: Does the Sportster S have ride modes? A: Yes. Multiple ride modes are available, allowing riders to adjust throttle response and electronic intervention settings. Q: Does the Sportster S have cruise control? A: Yes. Cruise control is included as standard equipment. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Sportster S? A: The motorcycle has an 11.8-litre fuel tank. Q: Is the Sportster S suitable for long-distance touring? A: It can handle longer rides, but its compact fuel tank, limited wind protection, and firm suspension make it less touring-oriented than Harley-Davidson's cruiser-touring models. Q: Is the Sportster S comfortable for a passenger? A: Passenger accommodation is limited in stock form and is not one of the motorcycle's primary focuses. Q: What is the seat height of the Sportster S? A: The seat height is approximately 765 mm. Q: Does the Sportster S have traction control and cornering ABS? A: Yes. The motorcycle includes cornering-enhanced ABS, traction control, and other electronic rider-assistance systems. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Sportster S? A: The motorcycle weighs approximately 228 kg in running condition. Q: Is the Sportster S beginner-friendly? A: Due to its performance, power output, and responsive throttle characteristics, it is generally more suitable for riders with some experience. Q: Does the Sportster S support smartphone connectivity? A: Yes. The TFT display supports smartphone connectivity, navigation functions, and various connected features. |
| Fuel System | Petrol, fuel‑injected | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 107196 | STD | 1805000 |
| Pros | The Storm 125 has nimble and agile handling, making it easy to weave through city traffic and park in tight spaces. Its sporty and aggressive design stands out, giving it a premium, performance-oriented look compared with regular scooters. The engine delivers smooth, usable performance, with enough punch for urban commuting and occasional highway bursts. Front disc and rear drum brakes with CBS provide reliable stopping power and enhance rider confidence. Automatic CVT transmission makes it very easy to ride in stop-and-go traffic without the hassle of manual gear changes. LED lighting and combined analogue-digital cluster improve visibility and modernize the riding experience. Lightweight (118 kg) and compact dimensions make the scooter easy to maneuver, even for newer riders. | Engine Completely Changes the Character of the Bike – The Revolution Max 1250T engine feels very different from traditional Harley-Davidson V-twins. It revs higher, responds quicker to throttle inputs, and delivers performance in a way that feels more modern and energetic. Strong Acceleration Across the Rev Range – Whether pulling away from a traffic light or overtaking on a highway, the engine has enough power in reserve that the motorcycle rarely feels short of performance. Surprisingly Capable Handling – Compared to most cruisers, the Sportster S feels noticeably more willing to lean into corners and change direction. Modern Electronics Package – Ride modes, traction control, cornering ABS, cruise control, and a TFT display bring a level of technology that wasn't traditionally associated with the Sportster name. Distinctive Design – The short tail section, high-mounted exhaust, fat tyres, and exposed engine give the motorcycle a look that stands apart from both traditional cruisers and naked bikes. High-Quality TFT Display – The instrument screen is clear, modern, and provides access to a wide range of riding information and settings. Strong Braking Performance – The braking setup offers a level of stopping power that matches the motorcycle's performance capabilities. Lighter and More Agile Than Many Harley-Davidsons – While not a lightweight motorcycle by industry standards, it feels noticeably more manageable than Harley's larger cruiser and touring models. |
| Starter | Kick + Electric self‑start | Electric |
| Transmission | Automatic | 6‑speed manual |
