1975 Kawasaki KE125
Only 1 in stock
CALL OR TEXT JR. (860) 471-0192
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Description
1975 KAWASAKI KE125 Enduro
Frame-Up Restoration To Showroom New
Rotary Valve Performance
Museum Quality Classic
A Half-Century Later, Still Ready to Rip
Fresh off a comprehensive frame-up restoration completed here at Kaplan Cycles, this iconic rotary-valve Kawasaki has just celebrated its 51st birthday and presents in absolutely stunning showroom condition. If you're searching for one of the finest KE125s in existence, your search may very well end here.
The KE125 wasn't just another trail bike. It was one of Kawasaki's most enjoyable and best-performing lightweight enduros of the era, combining rugged reliability, lightweight handling, exceptional comfort, and surprisingly strong performance. Throw a leg over this machine and you'll immediately understand why so few survived—they were simply too much fun to ride.
Most were ridden hard, put away wet, and eventually worn into the ground. Finding a KE125 today is difficult enough. Finding one restored to this level is virtually impossible.
Look around eBay, Cycle Trader, Bring a Trailer, and the major vintage motorcycle marketplaces. You'll find restored motocross bikes and the occasional KX125, but a frame-up restored KE125 of this caliber is an extraordinarily rare find.
Performance That Surprises Everyone
This isn't just a showpiece.
The legendary rotary-valve induction engine has been professionally rebuilt and upgraded to deliver performance that exceeds most riders' expectations of a vintage 125.
Features include:
-
Engine completely rebuilt
-
New piston and rings
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
Rotary valve system serviced and refreshed
-
Carburetor professionally rebuilt
-
Ports cleaned and polished
-
Clutch rebuilt
-
Engine cases refinished
-
Aluminum side covers polished to near chrome-like brilliance
-
Strong 150 PSI compression
-
Hand Built Racing Exhaust System
The crown jewel is the handcrafted aftermarket expansion chamber, believed to be a vintage Bassani performance pipe. While there has been some discussion that it may be a Hooker pipe, we are approximately 99% confident it is a Bassani. The pipe works exceptionally well and transforms the motorcycle's performance.
As every two-stroke enthusiast knows, the pipe is everything.
The larger expansion chamber dramatically improves power delivery, and combined with the rotary-valve induction system, the result is a KE125 that pulls significantly harder than most comparable Japanese 125s of the era.
The bike starts easily, shifts beautifully through all six gears, and the clutch engagement is excellent.
Comprehensive Frame-Up Restoration
This restoration was completed to an high standard.
Chassis & Frame
-
Frame completely stripped and repainted
-
Swingarm restored and refinished
-
Brake stay arm refinished
-
Foot pegs refinished
-
Rear brake pedal refinished
-
Triple clamps restored and repainted
-
Period-correct rear shocks restored
Fuel Tank & Bodywork
The fuel tank has been beautifully refinished in Kawasaki Green with metallic silver striping and graphics.
Highlights include:
-
Straight, clean tank
-
Excellent paintwork
-
Restored seat
-
Restored fenders
-
New front number plate
-
New mounting hardware
Front Suspension
-
Forks disassembled and restored
-
New fork seals
-
Fresh fork oil
-
New fork gaiters
-
Fork components polished and refinished
Controls
-
Brand-new chrome handlebars
-
New Kawasaki crossbar pad
-
New levers
-
New perches
-
New cables
-
New dust covers
-
New ODI Ruffian grips
Wheels & Brakes
The wheel assemblies present beautifully.
-
Hubs vapor honed and polished
-
Brake backing plates polished
-
Rear brake cable replaced
-
Rear brake shoes replaced
Tires are exceptional:
Front:
-
New Old Stock Legion trials tire
-
Nearly 100% tread remaining
Rear:
-
New Old Stock Legion 4.10 x 18 trials tire
-
Outstanding traction and ride quality
-
Gives the bike a remarkably plush feel
Completing the look is a brand-new gold drive chain that complements the green and silver paint scheme perfectly.
Condition
This motorcycle has accumulated only a few hours of riding time since restoration.
The frame rails are exceptionally clean and straight.
Vintage off-road enthusiasts know exactly where to look for abuse:
-
Frame rails
-
Engine cases
-
Lower frame downtube
-
Wheels
This KE125 shows none of the typical signs associated with hard trail riding.
The frame rails are excellent.
The engine cases are excellent.
The wheel set is straight and free from damage, flat spots, or evidence of aggressive off-road use.
It appears to have lived a relatively easy life before being treated to its restoration.
Full Disclosure
As with any vintage motorcycle, there are a few minor cosmetic imperfections worth noting:
-
Small dents on the upper section of the expansion chamber
-
A few tiny touched-up paint imperfections on the fuel tank
-
Minor cosmetic patina on portions of the upper fork tubes
These items are minor and do not detract from the motorcycle's exceptional overall presentation.
Why We Love This Bike
There's something special about vintage Kawasaki KE125 enduros.
They're lightweight.
They're simple.
They're reliable.
They're easy to work on.
And they're unbelievably fun to ride.
The KE125 may be one of the most enjoyable Trail Bikes ever built. With its comfortable saddle, low seat height, strong rotary-valve powerband, and six-speed transmission, it remains just as entertaining today as it was in 1975.
This is the type of motorcycle you'll regret selling.
It's equally at home:
-
In a private collection
-
On display in a museum
-
At AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days
-
At Mid-Ohio
-
At MX Rewind
-
On vintage trail rides
-
Exploring back roads and campgrounds
Quite frankly, it could be the poster bike for vintage enduro motorcycling.
Restoration Cost Reality
Many collectors underestimate what it takes to restore a motorcycle to this level.
A restoration of this caliber typically requires approximately:
-
70+ labor hours @ $150 per hour is $10,500
-
Plus Over $1,250 in parts
Over $10,500 in labor alone before accounting for parts, materials, and countless restoration details.
As often happens in the vintage motorcycle world, the cost to properly restore one frequently exceeds its market value.
This motorcycle was built as a labor of love.
Shipping & Financing
We can arrange:
-
Nationwide enclosed shipping
-
Fully insured transportation
-
Door-to-door delivery
-
Financing options available
Final Thoughts
I've ridden a lot of vintage enduros over the years.
This one is special.
The power delivery is fantastic. The six-speed transmission shifts beautifully. The pipe sounds incredible. The fit and finish throughout the motorcycle are outstanding.
Most importantly, it captures everything that made these bikes legendary in the first place.
If you're looking for one of the nicest 1975 Kawasaki KE125s you'll ever find, this may be your opportunity.
Good luck bidding.
God Bless America.
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
Wheels
1975 KAWASAKI KE125 Enduro
Frame-Up Restoration To Showroom New
Rotary Valve Performance
Museum Quality Classic
A Half-Century Later, Still Ready to Rip
Fresh off a comprehensive frame-up restoration completed here at Kaplan Cycles, this iconic rotary-valve Kawasaki has just celebrated its 51st birthday and presents in absolutely stunning showroom condition. If you're searching for one of the finest KE125s in existence, your search may very well end here.
The KE125 wasn't just another trail bike. It was one of Kawasaki's most enjoyable and best-performing lightweight enduros of the era, combining rugged reliability, lightweight handling, exceptional comfort, and surprisingly strong performance. Throw a leg over this machine and you'll immediately understand why so few survived—they were simply too much fun to ride.
Most were ridden hard, put away wet, and eventually worn into the ground. Finding a KE125 today is difficult enough. Finding one restored to this level is virtually impossible.
Look around eBay, Cycle Trader, Bring a Trailer, and the major vintage motorcycle marketplaces. You'll find restored motocross bikes and the occasional KX125, but a frame-up restored KE125 of this caliber is an extraordinarily rare find.
Performance That Surprises Everyone
This isn't just a showpiece.
The legendary rotary-valve induction engine has been professionally rebuilt and upgraded to deliver performance that exceeds most riders' expectations of a vintage 125.
Features include:
-
Engine completely rebuilt
-
New piston and rings
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
Rotary valve system serviced and refreshed
-
Carburetor professionally rebuilt
-
Ports cleaned and polished
-
Clutch rebuilt
-
Engine cases refinished
-
Aluminum side covers polished to near chrome-like brilliance
-
Strong 150 PSI compression
-
Hand Built Racing Exhaust System
The crown jewel is the handcrafted aftermarket expansion chamber, believed to be a vintage Bassani performance pipe. While there has been some discussion that it may be a Hooker pipe, we are approximately 99% confident it is a Bassani. The pipe works exceptionally well and transforms the motorcycle's performance.
As every two-stroke enthusiast knows, the pipe is everything.
The larger expansion chamber dramatically improves power delivery, and combined with the rotary-valve induction system, the result is a KE125 that pulls significantly harder than most comparable Japanese 125s of the era.
The bike starts easily, shifts beautifully through all six gears, and the clutch engagement is excellent.
Comprehensive Frame-Up Restoration
This restoration was completed to an high standard.
Chassis & Frame
-
Frame completely stripped and repainted
-
Swingarm restored and refinished
-
Brake stay arm refinished
-
Foot pegs refinished
-
Rear brake pedal refinished
-
Triple clamps restored and repainted
-
Period-correct rear shocks restored
Fuel Tank & Bodywork
The fuel tank has been beautifully refinished in Kawasaki Green with metallic silver striping and graphics.
Highlights include:
-
Straight, clean tank
-
Excellent paintwork
-
Restored seat
-
Restored fenders
-
New front number plate
-
New mounting hardware
Front Suspension
-
Forks disassembled and restored
-
New fork seals
-
Fresh fork oil
-
New fork gaiters
-
Fork components polished and refinished
Controls
-
Brand-new chrome handlebars
-
New Kawasaki crossbar pad
-
New levers
-
New perches
-
New cables
-
New dust covers
-
New ODI Ruffian grips
Wheels & Brakes
The wheel assemblies present beautifully.
-
Hubs vapor honed and polished
-
Brake backing plates polished
-
Rear brake cable replaced
-
Rear brake shoes replaced
Tires are exceptional:
Front:
-
New Old Stock Legion trials tire
-
Nearly 100% tread remaining
Rear:
-
New Old Stock Legion 4.10 x 18 trials tire
-
Outstanding traction and ride quality
-
Gives the bike a remarkably plush feel
Completing the look is a brand-new gold drive chain that complements the green and silver paint scheme perfectly.
Condition
This motorcycle has accumulated only a few hours of riding time since restoration.
The frame rails are exceptionally clean and straight.
Vintage off-road enthusiasts know exactly where to look for abuse:
-
Frame rails
-
Engine cases
-
Lower frame downtube
-
Wheels
This KE125 shows none of the typical signs associated with hard trail riding.
The frame rails are excellent.
The engine cases are excellent.
The wheel set is straight and free from damage, flat spots, or evidence of aggressive off-road use.
It appears to have lived a relatively easy life before being treated to its restoration.
Full Disclosure
As with any vintage motorcycle, there are a few minor cosmetic imperfections worth noting:
-
Small dents on the upper section of the expansion chamber
-
A few tiny touched-up paint imperfections on the fuel tank
-
Minor cosmetic patina on portions of the upper fork tubes
These items are minor and do not detract from the motorcycle's exceptional overall presentation.
Why We Love This Bike
There's something special about vintage Kawasaki KE125 enduros.
They're lightweight.
They're simple.
They're reliable.
They're easy to work on.
And they're unbelievably fun to ride.
The KE125 may be one of the most enjoyable Trail Bikes ever built. With its comfortable saddle, low seat height, strong rotary-valve powerband, and six-speed transmission, it remains just as entertaining today as it was in 1975.
This is the type of motorcycle you'll regret selling.
It's equally at home:
-
In a private collection
-
On display in a museum
-
At AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days
-
At Mid-Ohio
-
At MX Rewind
-
On vintage trail rides
-
Exploring back roads and campgrounds
Quite frankly, it could be the poster bike for vintage enduro motorcycling.
Restoration Cost Reality
Many collectors underestimate what it takes to restore a motorcycle to this level.
A restoration of this caliber typically requires approximately:
-
70+ labor hours @ $150 per hour is $10,500
-
Plus Over $1,250 in parts
Over $10,500 in labor alone before accounting for parts, materials, and countless restoration details.
As often happens in the vintage motorcycle world, the cost to properly restore one frequently exceeds its market value.
This motorcycle was built as a labor of love.
Shipping & Financing
We can arrange:
-
Nationwide enclosed shipping
-
Fully insured transportation
-
Door-to-door delivery
-
Financing options available
Final Thoughts
I've ridden a lot of vintage enduros over the years.
This one is special.
The power delivery is fantastic. The six-speed transmission shifts beautifully. The pipe sounds incredible. The fit and finish throughout the motorcycle are outstanding.
Most importantly, it captures everything that made these bikes legendary in the first place.
If you're looking for one of the nicest 1975 Kawasaki KE125s you'll ever find, this may be your opportunity.
Good luck bidding.
God Bless America.
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
