With the Burgman Street 125 EX launch a couple of weeks ago, you’d be forgiven for thinking that it would replace the first-generation Burgman Street in the market.

Suzuki, however, is adamant that both Burgmans will remain in their stable as they are intended to cater to different types of riders.

While the Burgman Street and the Burgman Street 125 EX might look the same at first glance, they do have subtle differences that are obvious only to the discriminating rider.

Also Read: 2023 Makina Moto Show: Suzuki Philippines launches luxurious Burgman Street 125 EX

Size matters

The Burgman Street is one of the most popular scooters in the market today, but it initially received flak because of its tiny 10-inch rear wheel. Suzuki remedied that issue by fitting the Burgman Street 125 EX with 12-inch wheels, front, and rear. It did result in more proportional overall dimensions, as opposed to looking like a bodybuilder who habitually skips leg day.

I have yet to ride the newer Burgman, but I’m guessing the larger rear wheel will probably adversely affect acceleration. On paper, the Burgman Street 125 EX has a slightly lower output of 6.3 kW and 10 Nm compared to the older Burgman’s 6.4 kW and 10.2 Nm. This is mainly because of its new Suzuki Eco Performance Alpha engine, which is more restricted so that it could pass European emission requirements.

The older Burgman is also two kilograms lighter and has a shorter wheelbase of 1,265 mm versus the Burgman Street 125 EX’s 1,290 mm. You know what they say, what you lack in size, you make up for in performance.

EX for exclusivity

Save for aesthetic reasons, why would you go for the less-performing Burgman Street 125 EX? For vanity, of course! Some of us would like to enjoy some level of exclusivity when it comes to our rides. At ₱ 92,400, it is ₱ 10,000 more expensive than the older Burgman. You pay a premium to enjoy looking down on other budget-conscious riders. It’s like the air fryer phenomenon all over again.

At least, when you’re busy judging fellow riders at stoplights, you won’t be burning fuel unnecessarily as the Burgman Street 125 EX comes with an Engine Auto Stop-Start System.  

So, which Burgman do you prefer?