Motorcycle specifications Gilera125 CX 1992 Vision of the future

When the CX came out in 1991, Gilera had one of the most complete ranges on the market: A sporty 125 SP02 (to be renamed Crono the following year), a sporty MXR tourer, a large-tank XR2 marathon trail bike, the RC 125 Top Rally, the Free Style supermotard and an urban trail bike called the Apache (an RC top rally with Free Style bodywork).

In order to differentiate itself from its mainly Italian competitors and get out of the crisis, Gilera opted for a "high-tech" concept: a sports tourer with highly refined aerodynamics, equipped not only with a single rear arm (like the Honda 750 VFR, from which it was somewhat inspired) but also a "monotube" fork.

The fairing, whose aesthetics have not necessarily won unanimous approval, has been studied in a wind tunnel. Its air penetration coefficient is 12% better than that of the MXR road bike. This cx improves top speed (169km/h) while reducing fuel consumption by around 1 liter compared with the MXR equipped with the same engine base. The fairing also provides excellent protection for the rider when he steps back behind the bubble.

The suspensions (designed in collaboration with Païoli) were primarily intended to demonstrate the brand's capacity for innovation. While the single-wishbone suspension was inspired by Honda or ELF single-wishbone systems, the front suspension imitated certain aeronautical technologies. The SSS (Single Suspension System) was based on the architecture of certain aircraft landing gear. The lenticular rims were designed by Grimeca and gave the CX a surprisingly straight profile, with the bike appearing to float above its wheels.

Gilera announced a revolution in suspension, steering and braking. The single 300mm brake disc was not only to be more efficient, but also to make the front axle more manoeuvrable thanks to its position at the center of the rim.

Unfortunately, despite these announced gains, there's nothing revolutionary about the behavior of the chassis. The CX is a very good tourer, but it doesn't surpass the competition. Worse still, the large tire size makes it a little hesitant on corner entry at high speeds.

At cruising speed, fuel consumption remains under 6 liters, or around 190kms before reserves (13-litre tank including 2-litre reserve). Autonomy doesn't exceed 140 kms during handle spinning sessions.

We'll be remembering its original looks and its road-going qualities as long as the pace remains reasonable.