Mistaken identity
The first thing we have to address is how this bike looks. Bullit say they take their inspiration from classic British designs and this bike really does epitomize that. From afar, the Hunt S has the silhouette of a Triumph Bonneville T100 and even required one onlooker at Goodwood Circuit to walk over and quiz me more about it. I love the fact this bike prompts that interest and I’m a big fan of its old-school retro design.
Easy rider
The high bars on the Hunt S and its sit-up riding position make for a really comfy ride. Around town the bike’s light steering makes it a doddle to control and for a 125cc, the engine is flexible enough to mean you’re not constantly over revving it to get going. At high speeds, the bike does initially feel slightly fidgety, but you quickly get used to it and relax into the ride.
All in the details
It’s not until you get up close to the bike, that you really can appreciate some of the little touches that Bullit have made to it. From it’s cool retro grips and tank pads, to its classy peashooter silencer and pleated seat, there’s clearly been a lot of thought put into the aesthetics of the bike.
Starting out
Stereotypically you would assume this bike is for young riders just starting out, looking for an affordable 125. It certainly ticks all those boxes, but I also think it offers a lot more to the biking community. This bike is a great stepping stone for older riders looking to take their bike test and get into the hipster lifestyle, particular people who may have previously struggled to find something cool enough to ride when learning the ropes. I also think it could appeal to some born-again riders who are looking to get back into biking after say 30-40 years out. Riders who still want that vintage style and feel, but without the hefty price tag.
Show us your money
At just £2,251.76 the Hunt S offers great value for money, leaving a few pennies left over to kit yourself out, start raiding the accessories catalogue or even put towards your full bike test later on. I think you’d also get a good resale value for the bike, as it definitely stands apart from the other Chinese 125s on the market.
Make it your own
There’s accessories already available for the bike online and the Hunt S does make a great bike to learn some basic mechanics on. Everything on the Hunt S is so easy and accessible and you could happily start experimenting with aftermarket parts for it, or even make your own.
Finishing up
When you take into consideration the price of this bike, you assume some corners have been cut in the production of it but the overall finish of the bike is pretty good. That’s not to say it won’t be the same story after it’s had a few British winters under its belt, but then I don’t see this as a hardcore daily commuter. Besides, I wouldn’t want to look at it outside the office window getting wet in the rain, it’s a charming looking thing.
Part of the family
Joining the Hunt S 125 in the Bullit family are a range of bikes for riders from CBT to A2 licence. There’s the opportunity to take a side step into the world of café racers and scramblers with their Spirit and Hero bikes, as well as the option to take a step up onto a larger bike with the Hunt S 250. There’s even rumours of a 450 in the pipeline!
For more information on the Hunt S and the rest of the Bullit range, click here.
Huge thanks to the guys at TwinThing Custom Motorcycles for lending me the Hunt S 125 for the day.
Bullit Hunt S 125 (2018) Specs
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