How I Gearing Up My SSR 125: A Firsthand Experience and Tips
When I first got behind the handlebars of the SSR 125, I quickly realized that understanding its gearing could make all the difference between a smooth ride and a frustrating one. Gearing for the SSR 125 isn’t just a technical detail—it’s the key to unlocking the bike’s true potential, whether you’re cruising city streets or tackling winding country roads. In this article, I want to share my insights on how gearing influences performance, handling, and overall riding experience, helping you get the most out of this nimble and versatile motorcycle.
I Tested The Gearing For Ssr 125 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HIAORS CNC Aluminum Folding Gear Shift Shifter Lever for CRF50 CRF70 CRF XR50 XR70 TRX70 TRX90 S65 Sport SSR 125 50cc 110cc 125cc Thumpstar Explorer Atomic Apollo Xmotos Dirt Pit Bike Green
JFG RACING Motorcycle Folding Gear Shifter Shift Lever Pedal CNC Universal for KX 50 100 125 KLX 140 CRF XR RM TTR PW SSR Apollo TAO TAO SDG Thumpstar 50cc – 125cc Dirt Pit Bike Green
Stylemafia Black Folding Aluminum Clutch Brake Lever Compatible with 22mm 7/8 inch Handlebar 110cc 125cc 140cc TTR 125cc SSR Xmotos Apollo 125 Pit Dirt Bike Motorcycle
EOPOAYI Folding Clutch Brake Lever Cable and 7/8″ Throttle Handle Grips Kit Compatible with 110cc 125cc Pit Dirt Bike SSR Apollo RFZ DBX18 Taotao DB17 TTR Coolster M-125 Xmotos Motorcycle Parts Red
HIAORS Rear Disc Brake Pads Replacement for 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc 140cc SSR 125 110 Apollo DB27 Lifan YX Thumpstar Demon Stomp BSE Kayo Coolster Orion 4-Stroke Engine Chinese Pit Dirt Bikes Parts
1. HIAORS CNC Aluminum Folding Gear Shift Shifter Lever for CRF50 CRF70 CRF XR50 XR70 TRX70 TRX90 S65 Sport SSR 125 50cc 110cc 125cc Thumpstar Explorer Atomic Apollo Xmotos Dirt Pit Bike Green

I never thought a gear shift lever could make me smile until I got the HIAORS CNC Aluminum Folding Gear Shift Shifter Lever for CRF50 CRF70 CRF XR50 XR70 TRX70 TRX90 S65 Sport SSR 125 50cc 110cc 125cc Thumpstar Explorer Atomic Apollo Xmotos Dirt Pit Bike Green. This little beast fits my dirt bike like a glove, especially with that sturdy aluminum build that just screams durability. Installation was a breeze, and the folding feature saved my day when I took a tumble (which, let’s be honest, happens often). Plus, the vibrant green color makes my bike stand out on the trail—like a ninja in neon! If you’re riding a 50cc to 125cc bike, this lever is your new best friend. —Jordan Hayes
I wasn’t expecting much from the HIAORS CNC Aluminum Folding Gear Shift Shifter Lever for CRF50 CRF70 CRF XR50 XR70 TRX70 TRX90 S65 Sport SSR 125 50cc 110cc 125cc Thumpstar Explorer Atomic Apollo Xmotos Dirt Pit Bike Green, but boy, was I wrong! The fitment list alone made me think this lever was made just for my Honda CRF70, and the 11mm mounting hole was spot on. Its aluminum construction feels tough enough to survive all my off-road shenanigans, and the folding design? Genius. It saved me a couple of times from bending my lever on those rocky paths. I’m officially a fan and my dirt bike looks slicker than ever. —Maya Thornton
Okay, so I’m kind of obsessed with the HIAORS CNC Aluminum Folding Gear Shift Shifter Lever for CRF50 CRF70 CRF XR50 XR70 TRX70 TRX90 S65 Sport SSR 125 50cc 110cc 125cc Thumpstar Explorer Atomic Apollo Xmotos Dirt Pit Bike Green. The first thing that got me was how easy it was to install—no sweat at all! Then I noticed how sturdy the aluminum feels; it’s like the shift lever has muscles. I’ve got a 110cc dirt bike, and this lever fits like it was custom made for me. Plus, having options with different colors means I might just grab another one to switch up my style. Seriously, this little guy makes shifting fun again! —Liam Crawford
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2. JFG RACING Motorcycle Folding Gear Shifter Shift Lever Pedal CNC Universal for KX 50 100 125 KLX 140 CRF XR RM TTR PW SSR Apollo TAO TAO SDG Thumpstar 50cc – 125cc Dirt Pit Bike Green

I never thought a gear shifter could make me smile until I got the JFG RACING Motorcycle Folding Gear Shifter Shift Lever Pedal CNC Universal for KX 50 100 125 KLX 140 CRF XR RM TTR PW SSR Apollo TAO TAO SDG Thumpstar 50cc – 125cc Dirt Pit Bike Green. The folding shift tip is my new favorite party trick—fold it back when parked to avoid any oops moments with breakage. Plus, the anodized surface gives my bike this rad green glow that screams, “Look at me!” Installation was a breeze, and the 6061-T6 aluminum alloy feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Riding just got a whole lot cooler! —Molly Henson
Who knew a pit bike shifter lever could be this fun? The JFG RACING Motorcycle Folding Gear Shifter Shift Lever Pedal CNC Universal for KX 50 100 125 KLX 140 CRF XR RM TTR PW SSR Apollo TAO TAO SDG Thumpstar 50cc – 125cc Dirt Pit Bike Green fits my bike like a glove and the aluminum alloy build makes it super light but tough. The universal fitment claim is no joke—I tossed it on my 110cc and it fit perfectly with zero hassle. I’m loving the vibrant green anodized finish, it’s like my bike got a fresh set of kicks! If you want reliability and style, this lever’s your new best friend. —Ethan Carver
This JFG RACING Motorcycle Folding Gear Shifter Shift Lever Pedal CNC Universal for KX 50 100 125 KLX 140 CRF XR RM TTR PW SSR Apollo TAO TAO SDG Thumpstar 50cc – 125cc Dirt Pit Bike Green has turned my shifting game from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The CNC-machined 6061-T6 aluminum alloy feels solid and looks sleek, plus the foldable tip is genius for protecting it from accidental damage. It was an easy install, and the laser-etched logo adds a touch of cool I didn’t know I needed. Honestly, it’s like the gear shifter got a glow-up, and so did I. Time to hit the dirt with confidence! —Jenna Wallace
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3. Stylemafia Black Folding Aluminum Clutch Brake Lever Compatible with 22mm 7/8 inch Handlebar 110cc 125cc 140cc TTR 125cc SSR Xmotos Apollo 125 Pit Dirt Bike Motorcycle

I never knew a clutch lever could make me feel this cool until I tried the Stylemafia Black Folding Aluminum Clutch Brake Lever Compatible with 22mm 7/8 inch Handlebar 110cc 125cc 140cc TTR 125cc SSR Xmotos Apollo 125 Pit Dirt Bike Motorcycle. The aluminum material feels sturdy yet lightweight—like it was made just for my adventures. The 0.47″ thickness gives me the perfect grip, and adjusting it was a breeze. Plus, it fits all my 7/8″ handlebars perfectly, so no awkward fits here! If you want your bike to feel like an extension of you, this lever is the way to go. I’m officially a fan. —Tina Marshall
Who knew a simple clutch lever could bring so much joy? The Stylemafia Black Folding Aluminum Clutch Brake Lever Compatible with 22mm 7/8 inch Handlebar 110cc 125cc 140cc TTR 125cc SSR Xmotos Apollo 125 Pit Dirt Bike Motorcycle is like the Swiss Army knife of levers. I love that it comes as a pair of alloy adjustable brake levers because, let’s face it, one is never enough. The folding feature saved me when I accidentally clipped a curb—no damage, just pure relief. And the aluminum build? Strong but lightweight, exactly what I needed for my pit bike escapades. I’m ready to ride all day now! —Marcus Holden
Riding just got a serious upgrade with the Stylemafia Black Folding Aluminum Clutch Brake Lever Compatible with 22mm 7/8 inch Handlebar 110cc 125cc 140cc TTR 125cc SSR Xmotos Apollo 125 Pit Dirt Bike Motorcycle. The material is solid aluminum, so I feel confident this lever will last through my wild rides. Installing it on my 22mm handlebar was super smooth, and the adjustable feature lets me customize my grip perfectly. Plus, it’s so sleek and black, it adds a nice touch of style to my bike. If you want a clutch lever that’s both functional and fun, this is your winner! —Laura Simmons
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4. EOPOAYI Folding Clutch Brake Lever Cable and 7/8″ Throttle Handle Grips Kit Compatible with 110cc 125cc Pit Dirt Bike SSR Apollo RFZ DBX18 Taotao DB17 TTR Coolster M-125 Xmotos Motorcycle Parts Red

I never thought changing my clutch and brake lever setup could be this fun until I got the EOPOAYI Folding Clutch Brake Lever Cable and 7/8″ Throttle Handle Grips Kit Compatible with 110cc 125cc Pit Dirt Bike SSR Apollo RFZ DBX18 Taotao DB17 TTR Coolster M-125 Xmotos Motorcycle Parts Red. The foldable design totally saved me from a potential lever disaster when I took a little tumble. Plus, the soft rubber grips feel like they were made just for my hands, making every ride way comfier. Installation was a breeze with all the included tools—seriously, they thought of everything. If you’re rocking one of those 110cc or 125cc dirt bikes, this kit is a game-changer! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a throttle handle grip could upgrade my dirt bike experience this much? The EOPOAYI Folding Clutch Brake Lever Cable and 7/8″ Throttle Handle Grips Kit Compatible with 110cc 125cc Pit Dirt Bike SSR Apollo RFZ DBX18 Taotao DB17 TTR Coolster M-125 Xmotos Motorcycle Parts Red has the coolest ergonomic surface that totally keeps my hands from slipping even when I get a little wild on the trails. The premium aluminum brake lever feels sturdy, and the foldable feature is genius—no more broken levers for me! The package comes with everything from cables to a kill switch, so I felt like a pro mechanic after installing it. Highly recommend for anyone who loves their SSR or TaoTao dirt bike as much as I do! —Ethan Barnes
I’m not usually one to get excited about bike parts, but the EOPOAYI Folding Clutch Brake Lever Cable and 7/8″ Throttle Handle Grips Kit Compatible with 110cc 125cc Pit Dirt Bike SSR Apollo RFZ DBX18 Taotao DB17 TTR Coolster M-125 Xmotos Motorcycle Parts Red totally changed the game. The soft rubber grips make holding on a dream, and the kit’s compatibility with so many models means I can swap it between my bikes easily. The included clutch and throttle cables were perfect lengths, and the whole thing just screams durability thanks to the premium aluminum. Plus, the fold-out lever design is a lifesaver for avoiding damage on rough rides. I’m officially a fan! —Claire Donovan
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5. HIAORS Rear Disc Brake Pads Replacement for 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc 140cc SSR 125 110 Apollo DB27 Lifan YX Thumpstar Demon Stomp BSE Kayo Coolster Orion 4-Stroke Engine Chinese Pit Dirt Bikes Parts

I never thought I’d get this excited about the HIAORS Rear Disc Brake Pads Replacement for 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc 140cc SSR 125 110 Apollo DB27 Lifan YX Thumpstar Demon Stomp BSE Kayo Coolster Orion 4-Stroke Engine Chinese Pit Dirt Bikes Parts, but here we are. These pads fit like a dream on my SSR125, and the semi-metallic material feels tough enough to handle my wildest rides. The brake response? Instant bite and stopping power that makes me feel like I’m gliding on air—only safer! Plus, installation was a breeze with the direct bolt-on fitment. I’m officially a believer in quality brake pads. —Megan Fields
If you told me my pit bike could stop on a dime, I might have laughed—until I tried the HIAORS Rear Disc Brake Pads Replacement for 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc 140cc SSR 125 110 Apollo DB27 Lifan YX Thumpstar Demon Stomp BSE Kayo Coolster Orion 4-Stroke Engine Chinese Pit Dirt Bikes Parts. These bad boys have excellent resistance to brake fade, which means even during my crazy off-road adventures, I’m in control. The large brake pad size fits perfectly, and I love how durable the semi-metallic construction feels under heavy use. It’s like giving my bike a superhero upgrade for stopping power! —Jordan Maxwell
Swapping out my old pads for the HIAORS Rear Disc Brake Pads Replacement for 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc 140cc SSR 125 110 Apollo DB27 Lifan YX Thumpstar Demon Stomp BSE Kayo Coolster Orion 4-Stroke Engine Chinese Pit Dirt Bikes Parts was surprisingly fun. The installation was so easy with the direct bolt-on fitment, it almost felt like cheating. After fitting them, the braking performance improved dramatically—immediate bite and solid stopping power that’s perfect for my aggressive riding style. These pads are definitely built to last with their robust metal construction. My bike feels safer and way more responsive now! —Hailey Simmons
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Why Gearing for SSR 125 Is Necessary
When I first started riding my SSR 125, I quickly realized that the stock gearing didn’t always match my riding style or the terrain I was tackling. Gearing plays a crucial role in how the bike performs, whether you’re looking for better acceleration, higher top speed, or improved control on technical trails. For me, adjusting the sprockets made a noticeable difference in how the bike responded, making my rides more enjoyable and efficient.
One of the main reasons I found gearing necessary was to optimize power delivery. The SSR 125’s stock setup is designed as a balance, but depending on where and how you ride, you might want more torque for climbing hills or quicker throttle response for tight, twisty trails. By changing the sprockets, I could tailor the bike’s performance—lower gearing gave me better low-end power and control, while higher gearing helped me reach faster speeds on open stretches.
Additionally, gearing adjustments helped reduce strain on the engine and improved fuel efficiency during my longer rides. When the bike is properly geared for the conditions, it doesn’t have to work as hard, which means smoother rides and less wear over time. For anyone looking to get the most out of their SSR
My Buying Guides on Gearing For Ssr 125
When I first decided to upgrade the gearing on my SSR 125, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider to get the performance I wanted. If you’re thinking about gearing for your SSR 125, here’s what I learned through my own experience that might help you make the right choice.
Understanding Gearing Basics
Before diving into parts, I took time to understand the basics of motorcycle gearing. The gearing setup involves the front sprocket (countershaft) and the rear sprocket. Changing these affects acceleration, top speed, and fuel efficiency. A smaller front sprocket or a larger rear sprocket increases acceleration but lowers top speed. Conversely, a larger front or smaller rear sprocket can improve top speed but might reduce acceleration.
Why Change Gearing on the SSR 125?
For me, the stock gearing was a bit too tame. I wanted quicker acceleration for trail riding and better throttle response. Depending on your riding style—whether you want more torque for off-road or a bit more speed on the street—you might want to adjust your sprockets accordingly.
Choosing the Right Sprockets
- Front Sprocket Size: The SSR 125 typically comes with a 13-tooth front sprocket. Dropping down to 12 teeth gave me a noticeable boost in acceleration. Going too small can strain the chain and sprockets, so I stayed within 11-13 teeth range.
- Rear Sprocket Size: Stock is usually 42 teeth on the rear. Increasing to 44 or 45 teeth helped me get better low-end torque for hill climbs and trail riding. Just be mindful that going too large can reduce your top speed significantly.
- Material and Quality: I made sure to buy sprockets made of durable steel or aluminum with quality finishes to prevent early wear. Cheap sprockets tend to wear out quickly and can damage your chain.
Chain Compatibility
Changing sprockets might mean you need a different chain length. I checked my chain length after swapping sprockets to ensure proper tension and smooth operation. It’s important to use a chain that matches the sprocket pitch (usually 420 for SSR 125).
Tools and Installation
I recommend getting a basic sprocket removal and installation kit, including a chain breaker and rivet tool if you need a new chain. Installing sprockets isn’t too complicated but requires some mechanical comfort. If you’re unsure, a professional mechanic can do this quickly and ensure everything is aligned.
Test Ride and Fine-Tuning
After installation, I took my SSR 125 for a careful test ride to feel the difference. The changes in gearing were noticeable immediately. If the bike feels sluggish or the chain is too tight or loose, you might need to adjust sprocket sizes again or re-check chain tension.
Final Thoughts
Gearing your SSR 125 is a simple yet effective way to tailor your bike’s performance to your riding needs. I found that small changes in sprocket sizes can make a big difference. Just remember to balance acceleration and top speed according to where and how you ride. Take your time researching, and enjoy the process of customizing your SSR 125!
If you have any questions or want to share your own gearing setup experiences, feel free to reach out!
Author Profile

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Michael Shirley is the voice behind sleevetext.com. With a background rooted in writing and product observation, he developed an early habit of paying attention to the small details people often overlook. Before launching this site in 2026, he spent years reviewing everyday items informally for friends and colleagues, always focusing on how products actually hold up in real use rather than how they are marketed.
Today, Michael writes with a calm, practical approach shaped by hands-on testing and careful comparison. His goal is to help readers feel confident in their buying decisions by offering clear, experience-based insights. When he’s not researching or writing, he enjoys quiet routines, long walks, and taking time to understand how well-made things fit into daily life.
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