Scooters are undoubtedly among the most popular two-wheelers in the UK. However, with prices continually on the rise, affordability has become a key factor for buyers. This is where the Chinese brands step into the spotlight, offering a budget friendly alternative.

 So, if you’re on the hunt for an affordable, and stylish ride to zip through 2025, a 125cc Chinese model could just be exactly what you need. Whether you’re ready to finally invest or simply curious about what these scooters have to offer, this blog has your back.

Now, let's dive in!

2025 AJS Barletta

Tank Size	Power	Seat Height	Weight	Price
6.6L	8hp	775mm	113kg	£2,099

Starting off our list we have a stand-out model within the 125cc scooter market, the AJS Barletta.

Named after the Italian coastal city, the Barletta is the go-to blend of retro aesthetic and modern performance. This makes it a super appealing choice for those looking for some vintage charm whilst also being provided with smooth power delivery and decent speeds for the perfect city ride. With spacious under seat storage and a comfortable seat for long commutes, you’re destined to be enjoying the whole journey.

The Barletta’s four-stroke engine is both fuel efficient and designed for those of you seeking an economical choice for daily transport without the hassle of continuous filling up. Not forgetting that it is lightweight and easy to ride, so if you’re new to the roads this would be ideal.

I just can’t keep the price from you any longer…this beauty is being sold for £2,099 and if it hasn’t swayed you then it’s safe to say it has me. This is a great option for those on a tight budget who want a retro beauty, if retro is your thing also check out the AJS Modena.

• Classic style
• Ultra budget price
• AJS is a British Heritage brand 

• Engine isn't the most powerful
• Cheap and cheerful spec

2025 Neco GPX

Tank Size	Power	Seat Height	Weight	Price
6.8L	9hp	780mm	86kg	£2,299

Next up is this stylish Neco GPX, a model we mentioned previously on our top 10 50cc mopeds article!

Equipped with a 125cc engine and this little sporty scooter is designed for gliding through the city streets. It’s highlighted sleek lines and vibrant colour options all make it a stand-out option in my eyes. While also having a modern digital display with all the vital information.

Its 13-inch wheels and low-profile tyres help zoom you about whilst also having combined CBS braking making sure you stop safely and efficiently; you can’t really expect ABS at the price point. This is another scoot with great storage, the under-seat compartment can fit a full-face helmet along with some additional small items. In addition to this, it also has hooks and compartments near the footrest.

Overall, the GPX is a high contender, offering good value for money without compromising on style or performance all for the price of £2,299. If you’re looking to travel in some style, I'd say it’s well worth it.

• Sports styling
• Budget-friendly option 

• Engine isn't the most powerful
• Cheap and cheerful spec

2025 Royal Alloy GP

Tank Size	Power	Seat Height	Weight	Price
11L	13hp	770mm	140kg	£3,499

In at eight we have yet another retro-styled scooter mixed up with modern features - the Royal Alloy GP 125.

Reminiscent of many iconic Italian scooters, the GP 125 stands out thanks to its polished chrome accents and high-quality finish this scooter has smooth acceleration and an overall enjoyable riding experience making it perfect for urban commuting and leisurely weekend cruising.

The robust frame and reliable typical scooter suspension ensure a stable ride, which should be fine on most roads. I also think the digital speedometer is a stunning touch allowing you to read all data clearly when riding.

So, if you appreciate the mix of performance and practicality, you’re going to love this one for definite. Fitting into such an affordable price range at £3,499 it’s hard to say no.

• Old school Lambretta looks

• More premium option on the list

2025 MGB A9

Tank Size	Power	Seat Height	Weight	Price
4.7L	7hp	820mm	102kg	£1,749

Looking for a decent commuter? Well, stay tuned for this one because the MGB A9 is in at seven and here to impress…

This scooter is definitely your go-to solution for hassle-free city travelling. Designed for effortless manoeuvring, it's a great fit for weaving through traffic jams. Its nippy 125cc engine delivers responsive performance and excellent fuel efficiency, this scooter ensures a smooth and economical ride at all times…and with user-friendly handling.

Equipped with front and rear hydraulic brakes with wavy discs should mean you get some reliable stopping power, again essential in stop-and-go traffic, which I'm sure you’ll find yourself in more times than not. In addition to this, the twin adjustable rear shocks should make for decent comfort as you make your way around the town, making this scooter the perfect partner in crime for conquering these types of journeys.

And if you’re wondering on a price, I can in fact find the 2024 model coming in at £1,749 so I could imagine the price of the 2025 model will be around £2,000 which is amazing.

• Reasonable price
• Stylish design 
• Good handling and manoeuvrability

• Limited power 
• Limited dealer network 

2025 Keeway Fact X

Tank Size	Power	Seat Height	Weight	Price
6.4L	10hp	800mm	180kg	£2,099

Sitting at sixth we have the Keeway Fact X 125.

The Fact X 125 redefines the idea of a sleek, edgy scooter, combining bold aesthetics with cutting-edge performance. It’s agile handling makes every ride thrilling while its reliability ensures you can count on it day after day. Perfectly balancing style, practicality and durability.

Its features enhance comfort and convenience, allowing for a seamless riding experience whether you’re commuting, running errands, or simply just exploring, the Keeway offers an ideal mix. Its modern digital dash keeps you informed with essential ride data at a glance and adds a stylish, flair to its appearance.

In addition to this, the exposed framework adds to the rugged feel of the scooter, making it stand out. The design choice not only exudes a sense of durability but also complements the modern styling. So basically, this one will be sure to turn heads when you go cruising past.

Wondering on the price? Well, it's one to remember as this scooter starts at £2,099 making it another one of the most affordable on the list. Too good to say no.

• Sleek, stylish design
• Reliable
• Fuel-efficient 

• Limited dealer network 
• Engine isn't the most powerful
• Cheap and cheerful spec

2025 FB Mondial Imola

Tank Size	Power	Seat Height	Weight	Price
4.6L	9hp	770mm	121kg	£2,499

Sitting comfortably in the middle of our top 10 today is the Imola 125, a bike inspired by classic racing motorcycles…

The Imola 125 has a sharp aggressive design with bold colourways and gold alloy wheels to enhance its sporty aesthetic. Also featuring fairings with internal air passages, it makes sure for a smooth yet agile ride.

You’re not missing out on a comfortable ride with the two-passenger seat, quality suspension and hydraulic disc brakes for responsive handling and safety. It’s got LED lighting and a proximity smart key for easy activation, locking the steering turn and locating the scooter. It's got a hook on its leg-rest for bags, passenger footrests and a low main cargo compartment, fitting a full-face helmet inside.

If you’re looking for a seamless experience and just the right amount of power for your city commute this one is a great option with the price currently sitting at around £2,499.

• LED lights
• Stylish/sporty design

• Basic tech and spec

2025 Zontes ZT125-M

Tank Size	Power	Seat Height	Weight	Price
12L	14.5hp	760mm	166kg	£3,299

Just missing out on a top three spot today is the Zontes ZT125-M.

 This compact maxi scooter is ready to take on the modern world, with a sleek design and brilliant power and durability. The ZT125-M is a spacious yet extremely agile ride, packed with a bunch of quality tech and spec.

The sporty design includes a full LED lighting system ensuring optimum visibility when riding in the dark. Not only that, but you also know you’ll have a comforting ride due to the upright riding position and digital display, the advanced features on this scooter really make it stand out. Its 12L fuel tank allows for efficiency and longer rides without the need to fill up as often.

The keyless control system allows for anti-theft protection and avoids any hassle of unlocking by key, its s seamless experience for sure! Another great feature on the Zontes ZT125-M is the TFT full colour screen, keeping you informed whilst riding and allowing for personalisation’s and stress-free adjustments to the ride.

Sitting at £3,299 a little bit pricier than your standard scooter but with the amount this has to offer I’m not sure you can argue. 

• Large capacity battery to perform well in winter 
• Advanced tech - Digital display, TFT screen, ability to monitor tyre pressure
• Large fuel tank capacity
• Aluminium cylinder for improved heat dissipation

• Pricier than others 
• Limited dealer network

2025 Lexmoto Diablo

Tank Size	Power	Seat Height	Weight	Price
6L	8.6hp	790mm	114kg	£1,959

Number three goes to the Diablo 125!

The Lexmoto Diablo 125 is a bold and sporty scooter that combines its sleek design with everyday functionality. Its aggressive sporty look features a modernised headlamp alongside bold graphics. The digital display and LED lighting also help enhance its modern vibe.

The scooter's lightweight build makes it easy to handle, even in those crowded city streets and the comfortable upright riding position ensures a relaxed experience for daily use. Along with this, you have hydraulic disc brakes providing reliable and safe braking so you can ride at ease. The Diablo also comes with under-seat storage allowing you to keep your belongings safe and dry.

It is a budget-friendly option in the 125 department, coming in at £1,959 can you even complain?

• Under seat storage
• Stylish
• Lightweight build
• Budget-friendly

• Cheap and cheerful spec and tech

2025 Vogue SR1

Tank Size	Power	Seat Height	Weight	Price
8L	11hp	775mm	139kg	£2,799

In at number two is this compact, yet elegant Voge SR1 125, created by the Italian designer Massimo Zaniboni. Who has designed many bikes and scooters in his time, including plenty for Taiwanese firm, Kymco.

Just looking at the SR1 you can tell this a modern-day designed scooter looking to target the same market as the Honda PCX, Yamaha NMax and Sym Jet series. The SR1 is made for comfort and convenience with decent dimensions and spec.

This bike contains a lovely amount of storage space, safety has been well and truly thought about, and for the price point you have to say is pretty impressive as it comes equipped with double-channel ABS, switchable traction control, and emergency braking alert, The SR1 offers a wide range of high-quality equipment including the keyless start system, digital dash, and LED lighting also a 1080p front camera which is pretty unique, but could be very handy in this day and age.

If the Vogue SR1 sounds like a bit of you, you may be pleasantly surprised as the price starts from £2,799.

• Contemporary design
• Manoeuvrability 

• Limited power
• Cheap and cheerful spec
• Limited dealer

2025 Lexmoto XDV

Tank Size	Power	Seat Height	Weight	Price
13.5L	12.5hp	810mm	156kg	£2,759

Taking the top spot today is the Lexmoto XDV 125, and whether you’re looking for a new adventure or simply just a commuting companion the XDV is the perfect choice, and a fairly affordable one too.

It's not just a good-looking bike, but also a practical one, the digital display and LED lights give it that modern touch with upside-down suspension and disc brakes ensuring it’s safe and stress-free. Solid for those wanting both off-road adventure and a great city ride. You’ve also got USB ports allowing you to plug in your own devices and don’t need to panic about running out of charge for navigation purposes.

The XDV has under-the-seat storage, allowing you to store personal belongings safely whilst also having a luggage rack so you’ve also got add-on storage options, for the price side of things I think this scooter is ideal. You’re looking at around £2,759 for this one but you won’t be missing out.

• Good storage space
• LED lights
• USB ports

• Limited dealer and service network
• Cheap and cheerful spec

There you have my top 10 list of super affordable, reliable, AND stylish Chinese scooters. Let me know which one is your favourite!

But before you go, if you are planning on getting your very own scooter, or you’re lucky enough to already have one, don’t forget your insurance - you can get a quote directly from Lexham!