Bultaco Streaker 125 1979 - Specifications & Review

1979 Bultaco Streaker 125: A Classic Lightweight Marvel

The 1979 Bultaco Streaker 125 stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of the late 1970s motorcycle industry, a time when lightweight machines were all the rage among enthusiasts and casual riders alike. With its striking design and nimble handling, the Streaker carved out its niche in the market, appealing especially to those seeking an agile bike for both street and light off-road use. Bultaco, a brand renowned for its commitment to performance and quality, packed a punch into this compact model, ensuring it remained a favorite among young riders and newcomers to the two-wheeled world.

At the heart of the Streaker 125 lies a robust 119cc single-cylinder, two-stroke engine that churns out an exhilarating 10 horsepower at a thrilling 9,000 RPM. This peppy little powerhouse makes for an engaging ride, delivering rapid acceleration and a top speed of 116 km/h (72.1 mph). Thanks to its high compression ratio of 12.0:1 and a well-designed 6-speed gearbox, the Streaker offers a spirited performance that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Whether you’re darting through city streets or navigating twisty backroads, this machine’s lightweight frame—just 94 kg (207.2 lbs) when fully fueled—ensures easy maneuverability and responsiveness, making every ride an adventure.

Bultaco equipped the Streaker 125 with modern features for its time, including air cooling to keep the engine running efficiently and brakes that inspire confidence. The bike boasts a single disc brake setup at both the front and rear, providing reliable stopping power that enhances safety and control. With a fuel capacity of 10.5 liters (2.77 gallons), the Streaker is not only ready for spirited rides but also long enough to keep you going without frequent stops. Its simplistic yet effective design is a nod to the era, combining performance with ease of maintenance, making it a beloved choice for hobbyists and collectors alike.

Pros:

1. Lightweight and Agile: Weighing just 94 kg, the Streaker 125 is exceptionally nimble, allowing for easy handling and maneuverability, especially in urban environments.
2. Peppy Engine Performance: The 119cc two-stroke engine delivers an exhilarating ride with impressive acceleration and a top speed that keeps the adrenaline pumping.
3. Solid Braking System: Featuring single disc brakes on both ends, the Streaker offers reliable stopping power, enhancing rider confidence in various conditions.

Cons:

1. Limited Power for Highway Use: While great for city riding, the 10 HP engine may struggle to keep up with faster highway traffic, limiting its versatility as a daily commuter.
2. Two-Stroke Maintenance: The two-stroke engine requires more frequent maintenance compared to four-stroke counterparts, which could be a drawback for less experienced riders.
3. Niche Market Appeal: The Streaker’s unique design and performance characteristics may not cater to all riders, potentially limiting its market appeal compared to more versatile models.

In summary, the 1979 Bultaco Streaker 125 is a lightweight motorcycle that embodies the spirit of its era, offering a fun and engaging riding experience for enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of performance and simplicity.