SUZUKI GZ125 MARAUDER (1998 - 2011) Review

Highlights

  • Learner-legal 125cc cruiser
  • Comfy over distances
  • Laid-back riding position

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 3.6 out of 5 (3.6/5)
Power: 12 bhp
Seat height: Low (26.8 in / 680 mm)
Weight: Low (276 lbs / 125 kg)

Prices

New N/A
Used £2,500

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
3 out of 5 (3/5)

Suzuki Marauder 125. The name alone conjures up images of dirty old men in rain coats hanging around parks, but when you see its definition in a dictionary includes ‘pirate, buccaneer, brigand’ it does have a certain rebel appeal. So why on earth did Suzuki decide to call a 125cc cruiser after such a neer-do-well? It’s not exactly a highwayman’s ideal getaway transport!

To be fair, aside from the name the Marauder 125 is a very charming 125 with a style that certainly doesn’t scream ‘learner legal.’ It looks like a bigger capacity machine, is comfortable for city cruising, is very reliable and sips petrol. If you want a relaxed 125, the Marauder works well and makes a decent learner steed.

It’s got more presence than the budget custom style 125s like Yamaha’s SR125 but it’s usefully cheaper than the twin cylinder alternatives which cost about a grand more when new. The Suzuki GZ125 Marauder (that's its official name) makes a decent, frugal urban commuter too.

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Low seat height makes it an easy bike to control, especially at low speed. Wide bars help more and the Suzuki Marauder 125 is pretty handy in town as a result. The suspension’s basic and the tyres thin, but the GZ125 Marauder will still lean over in corners until the footpegs scrape – something that happens later than on most cruiser 125s thanks to good clearance.

Suzuki Marauder 125 has an interesting name...

Engine

Next up: Reliability
3 out of 5 (3/5)

Air cooled, two valve, four stroke, single cylinder – engine’s don’t get much simpler. It only makes 12bhp – three less than UK learner law permits. But the Suzuki Marauder 125 is quite light so it’s not too slow off the line plus a single makes batter low rev torque than a twin. Get above 55mph and it get breathless – it takes determination to get 65mph on the Suzuki  Marauder 125's clock.

Suzuki Marauder 125 in blue

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
2 out of 5 (2/5)

Reliability is good unless the Suzuki Marauder 125 is neglected. Low oil levels can harm the engine rapidly. Suzuki don’t build the most corrosion resistant bikes and their budget options are worse still. Rust can appear quickly on chrome parts and ruin the Suzuki GZ125 Marauder's looks – plenty of cleaning and protective spray should keep it at bay.

Our Suzuki Marauder 125 owners' reviews show a mixed bag. Some love it, while others complain of poor build quality and lack of performance from the 12bhp engine.

Suzuki Marauder 125 in black showing exhaust

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
5 out of 5 (5/5)

There are cheaper learner-legal motorcycles than the Suzuki Marauder 125 – basic machines like Honda’s CG125 do the same job just as well for less money – but look plainer. Then there’s the Chinese / Korean alternatives – cheapo and some look funky but it's always a gamble. The Suzuki Marauder 125 provides a good balance of pose, performance and economy for the price. 100mpg is quite achievable and running costs are low.

Suzuki Marauder 125 top speed isn't going to win at Bonneville

Equipment

3 out of 5 (3/5)

The Suzuki Marauder 125 is basic but effective as standard. The riding position’s pretty comfy and the pillion accommodation’s better than many 125s. Wind turbulence is never a problem due to the Marauder 125's modest speed. There’s plenty of extras available from Suzuki and other suppliers, many of which are chromed for added bling.

Suzuki GZ125 Marauder motorcycle review - Side view

Specs

Engine size 124cc
Engine type 2v single, 6 gears
Frame type Steel cradle
Fuel capacity 14 litres
Seat height 680mm
Bike weight 125kg
Front suspension None
Rear suspension None
Front brake 275mm disc
Rear brake 130mm drum
Front tyre size 110/80 x 16
Rear tyre size 130/90 x 15

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 85 mpg
Annual road tax £25
Annual service cost -
New price -
Used price £2,500
Insurance group 4 of 17
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance

Max power 12 bhp
Max torque 7 ft-lb
Top speed 65 mph
1/4 mile acceleration 22.3 secs
Tank range 260 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

  • 1998: original Suzuki GZ125 Marauder launched.
  • 2011: Marauder 125 goes off sale.

Other versions

VL125 Intruder: Suzuki GZ125 Marauder's V-twin stable mate. Heavier, more powerful and more expensive.

Owners' reviews for the SUZUKI GZ125 MARAUDER (1998 - 2011)

13 owners have reviewed their SUZUKI GZ125 MARAUDER (1998 - 2011) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your SUZUKI GZ125 MARAUDER (1998 - 2011)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 3.8 out of 5 (3.8/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4 out of 5 (4/5)
Engine: 3.7 out of 5 (3.7/5)
Reliability & build quality: 3.6 out of 5 (3.6/5)
Value vs rivals: 4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Equipment: 3.5 out of 5 (3.5/5)
4 out of 5
02 February 2021 by Olly

Year: 2000

Big bike feel. Loads of positive views from neighbours,friends,family and public.Great for just getting out and enjoying the open roads. It's not about the speed. Makes a journey into a great experience.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5

If you really understand how a engine works you will get the best out of this 125. I'm 18 stone and it will cruise easy at 50.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

Buying experience: I bought my bike from a private owner. Only once it was home and a little work did I realise I had a real bargain. Every time I ride it it puts a smile on my face.

4 out of 5 GZ125 - Fun bike but lacking power on the big roads.
02 August 2017 by Dyno

Year: 2008

Im a 5'8" rider weighing 94Kg. Its a lovely bike. Has great road presence and comfortable to ride. The riding position is quite relaxed. Speed. It's not the fastest 125. On a flat straight road expect 55mph as a realistic cruising speed on the flat. I've had 65mph on a downhill straight but the engine was screaming. On country roads expect 45 mph up inclines and a 50mph cruising speed. I've not had queues of cars desperate to overtake which was a worry initially. In town on 30mph to 40mph its at its best. Easy to get about and a reasonable amount of oomph. I'd recommend this bike if your not in a hurry out of town. Its fun to ride overall.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Its a comfortable ride. Found its turning circle a bit wider than other bikes i've rode. Also takes some getting used to when cornering. Im still getting experience so hope that improves. Braking is sufficient for the bike weight. I dont tend to ride in the wet through.

Engine 3 out of 5

A big plus is reliability. Its a simple engine. Has Fuel injection. No choke. Mine starts first time. Lacks power at higher speed. Best up to 45mpg. Higher it depends on the road. Expect 45mph to 50mpg up inclines. 50mph-55mph comfortable cruising speed. 60mpg is all i'd go to downhill as it does push the engine. Note: This bike goes not have a main and reserve fuel tap like others. Its always on. However there is a low fuel indicator light on the dash. Getting Neutral can be a pain. Generally I have to kick to 2nd, then click down a touch.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Its a simple design so should be quite reliable. Not had any issues yet. I'd recommend look after the chrome as it could rust easily. Certainly perform regular cleaning to ensure nothing gets out of hand.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Cheap to own. Goes on forever on a tank full of fuel. Cheap tax and cheap insurance group.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Its got a reasonable amount of space under the seat. It has a tool pouch which it holds. I can also add a front brake disk lock and still have space left. (Around the size of a packed lunch box. I'll maybe add a tyre repair kit and spare bulbs. The seat locks and has key on side to open. Theres space for a pannier rack and i've added saddle bags. Beware of the clearance for the exhaust. The dash contains: Speedo, Fuel Injector Light, Low Fuel Light, Neutral Gear Light, Indicator Light, High Beam Light.

3 out of 5 Safe and a surprisingly fun first bike
17 August 2016 by Rowan Morgan

Year: 2005

Safe and a surprisingly fun first bike, low seat makes for easy handling at low speeds, you're lucky to push it above 60mph on the open road... however with a good long downhill it'll scream its way to 70. Can't speak for other bikes however (got mine with 18000 on the clock and a tough old life behind it). But if you have a budget and are prepared to do a lot of cleaning and replace a few parts then a £1000 used bike can end up drawing a few admiring looks, if that's something you're going for - I find it makes up for the endless SUVs sitting right up behind me most of the time as I plod up hills at 40... kinda...

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 2 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 2 out of 5
4 out of 5
20 March 2016 by jacob packham

Version: 125

Year: 1999

The GZ was my first bike, and for a first bike it was a very nice little thing to ride, it has its pros and cons and i will list them as follows, PROS, it has an amazing tank range of 300miles to the tank meaning Brighton to York could be do able on a single tank as the bike gets about 100 miles to the gallon, it is a very soft and very comfortable bike to ride and very easy to get into corners once you become used to the seating and foot rest set up, it's quite a thin bike which means filtering is a breeze, CONS, its NOT fast my one would hit 60 and that's it "but once it got to 60 it would stay there pretty well" the max i had out of it was 72 and that was down hill, it rusts pretty quickly i paid £1000 for mine and kept mine parked in and underground car park by the sea, i ended up selling it for £500 due to the damage the sea had done to it, regardless of cleaning unless it is very well stored it will fall apart, 2 up is pretty impossible, WATCH YOUR OIL i had an engine screw up on me and before i even knew the oil was low i it was broke beyond repair, i currently ride a Kawasaki Z650 and still have times in which i would like to ride the marauder.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 3 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

Buying experience: private and i paid £1000

5 out of 5 my first bike
28 June 2014 by Luna

This is my first bike, I only recently passed my CBT so I guess some might say I do not have enough experience to comment on this, but none the less I love this bike. Its comfortable, handles well, very efficient with fuel. It looks bigger than a 125 and people have asked me if its a 250 (one day I will advance). As someone that had never ridden a bike before doing my CBT, I was shocked how quickly I fell in love with this bike, This was not the one I used for the CBT but I did buy it a couple of days after passing, then other than riding the Marauder around the yard for about 10minutes the first real journey I did on it was a 22 mile trip home. That was also the first time I went out on the road by my self, but I found the bike easy to ride, comfortable and safe. I would recommend this bike to any beginner, it costs more than other 125's but for those of you that like that look and style of bikes then its well worth it, I was told by someone when I was deciding about it that if my heart was set on it, I should get it, because whats the point in getting a cheaper smaller looking 125 for the sake of saving money, when ok yes the Marauder cost more, but I love it and because of that I will want to spend more time on it and looking after it. So I pass that advice onto any one buying a bike, do not just buy the cheapest you can find, you should find one you love because you will do more to ride it and look after it.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 underpowered but cheap
11 August 2013 by stbrewer

So this is my first motorcycle, I bought it for £800 and it looked fresh off the showroom floor. When using around built up areas you would be perfectly content, decent speed and acceleration to get the job done. However when you take it into the country prepare to be the bane of everyone. The engine lacks power and has you crawling up hills at 20mph with the engine screaming which isn't fun at all. On the A roads the situation gets worse, topping 50mph on the straights, getting up to about 60 - 65 downhill. However up the hills you're looking at more like 45mph. So prepare for lots of overtaking by large SUVs driven by angry middleaged men in a midlife crisis. Whilst on the A roads I experienced the most terrifying effect of cross winds. With the wind pushing me into the fast lane, you have to keep your wits about you and lean far into the wind. However I did 90mpg so the thing just sips fuel so it is perfectly cheap for the daily commute. I am 21 and pay £349 on insurance which is a drop in the ocean compared to my quoted car insurance (£1500). The comfort of the ride is brilliant, the sitting position is comfortable for long distances and the seat is well padded. However at full throttle on the A roads has the bike vibrating going straight through the foot pedals and into your legs so be prepared for pins and needles when you get off. But all in all I am content with my motorcycle, it has the look of a much larger bike and is comfortable for long distanced rides. Cheap to run and to buy so for a first bike I would strongly recommend to take one of these for a spin.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 3 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
4 out of 5 LOVE IT!
19 October 2011 by jlcame

In Portugal, we ride 125cc without the stupid "L" plates. Thank God. About the bike... LOVE IT!!! I have the 2011 model and i can say its wounderfull. The only thing that lacks here is the engine, since is a 125cc, you can't expect much from it... But, oh well :) The style and riding comfort its super high! The sound gorgeous, and looks like a 800cc bike when rev it! I get more "likes" from people on the street than other old school big-bikes cruisers. Top speed (km): 85

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Cruising
28 July 2011 by archer618

Fantastic bike cant go wrong with it well worth the money and its great for riding to no where.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 summer 2010
05 September 2010 by rashskitz

very happy with my 2006 maruader have ridden 1000 miles so far - its nippy to 50 then does slow down but as long as you keep off the faster roads its no problem. handles well and very predictable . very cheap to run i average 75 mpg . need to clean it every couple weeks but so far so good :)

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
2 out of 5 2009
26 February 2010 by BikerDan

I Bought my 2009 Marauder in march last year, and ive had nothing but problems with it, Before it left the Car Park its fuel injectors had gone, then its gear then its brakes then the clutch, recently the tank came loose and almost fell off, im not saying that the Marauders are Bad bikes, just that i've had nothing but bad luck with mine, and 3 mates have had similier problems with theres

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 3 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 1 out of 5
Value vs rivals 2 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
4 out of 5 Great learner bike
26 May 2009 by Lee125C

I bought my Marauder new in october 2008 . I used it through the winter & regularly do a 300 mile round trip to north Wales & back its very reliable comfortable & most of all cheap to run . The only problems I have found is rust & the paint is peeling off the frame underneath the bike

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 2 out of 5
3 out of 5 A brilliant first bike
20 September 2008 by MelLev

This is my first bike (not technically a 'Marauder', as it's an import). I've only had it for about 6 weeks and absolutely love it. I can't really compare it to other bikes (as I don't have experience with any others) but it looks great - the only thing that gives away that it's a 125 is the 'L' plates - and it costs virtually nothing to run. I've not found any nagatives yet...

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 3 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
3 out of 5 Not to be sniffed at
22 January 2008 by medlgr

Had the Marauder since August 07 when i bought it new to use through the winter. Does get breathles after 55mph but i have seen 75 on the clock and i am 6'1 and 15 1/2 stone so it can get there. The handling is spot on and really suited for town riding. Equipment is basic but on the wee cruiser its all you need. My only gripe is the rust sets on really quick, watch underside of exaust and chain guard and keep clean of road grit.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 2 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
Back to top