NEXT NX Cross 125i test: from electric to combustion
The Spanish brand NEXT Motors presents the NX Cross 125i within its range of gasoline vehicles. Let us remember that NEXT was born in 2017 and has grown by offering electric scooters. But his last two releases are two combustion engine scooters: the NX2 125i (which has a twin brother in the electric NX2) and this NX Cross 125i that concerns us today; who doesn’t have an electric twin brother, but will soon. In this way, NEXT is one of the first brands that, having started electrified, now offers some of its products with a combustion engine.
The NX Cross sports a very adventurous aestheticmarked by an adjustable windshield, integrated front bumpers, and mixed tires. The model is offered in several color combinations, such as military green, which reflects the driver’s wilder side, or matte black with orange accents for those looking to stand out with strength and technology.
This design and performance package comes to the market with a very reasonable price. The NX Cross 125i is available for €2,999. In addition, it includes free insurance for the first year and has an extensive 5-year warranty.
NEXT NX Cross 125i test: Engine and cycle part of the NXCross 125i
The heart of the NX Cross is an engine 125 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooleda propellant that delivers notable power of 14.5 hp (10.5 kW)with a maximum torque of 12.5 Nm at 8500 rpm. The transmission is automatic through CVT, which guarantees a fluid and smooth ride.
Engine performance is outstanding, making the NX Cross agile and efficient. Even though my weight (100kg) is usually the main limitation in testing 125cc scooters, the NX Cross proves that He has strength and does not seem lazyespecially in starts and recoveries, where those 14.5 horses are more noticeable. In addition, the gas is very well communicated with the rear wheel, offering smooth, stable and predictable acceleration.
As for the cycle part, the scooter is dynamic and short, which makes it very mousey and easy to change direction. It mounts a conventional fork at the front and rear shock absorbers with external bottles. The wheels are 14 inches front (120/80 – 14) and 13 inches rear (130/70 – 13).
The braking is great. The system includes ABS BOSCH dual channel, which guarantees stability. Although my first impression of the feel of the front brake was “a little different«After testing it thoroughly, I confirmed that the braking in general is very good, without major buts.
For my part, I have the habit of using both levers at the same time when I’m on a scooter, for most braking and that being the case, that impression I had initially has faded as I spent more time with it.
NEXT NX Cross 125i test: Equipment and aesthetics of the NXCross 125i
The aesthetics of the NX Cross is one of its strong points, mixing its urban soul with a authentically adventurous character. The image is reinforced by integrated front bumpers and an adjustable screen that can be adjusted up and down. Complete lighting is Full LEDand I must highlight the front optics, as it impressed me and I really liked it, with a powerful and well-projected beam of light.
The instrument panel is a screen TFT color whose readability is very good, especially in the clear outline, with large numbers showing speed, revolutions, fuel information and coolant temperature.
Additionally, the scooter incorporates a keyless starting system (KEYLESS) and a Start/Stop system. On the handlebar, we find backlit pineapples. Although the backlight only goes around the buttons, and I would like it to also illuminate the legend so they can be seen better.
The layout of the controls is well thought out and simple: we have dedicated buttons to access the menu (SET); and buttons to move in it. It also has specific buttons to deactivate both traction control (TCS) and ABSin a boast that many trail bikes do not achieve, condemning us to delve into the menus to disconnect them.
In terms of comfort and extras, the NX Cross comes very complete. It has a port USB and USB-Cfootrest for the passenger, and trunk support included (which will also come with a Shad top case for the first units). Under the seat there is enough space to house a jet helmet, according to the brand.
In our test, we found that it is not impossible to store a jet helmet under the seat, but it will depend on the size and model. Where it does fit widely is the rear trunk.
NEXT NX Cross 125i test: Ergonomics of the NX Cross, compact and high
The first thing to remember my physical characteristics, and that is that I measure 1.86m and I move an approximate weight of 100 kilos. The seat of the NX Cross is at a height of 790mmand although it is a little wider than I expected, reaching the ground well with both feet should not be a problem for almost anyone.
It is a compact scooter, and this makes it difficult for me to use the front platforms; I am sitting in the most forward portion of the seat and I find them too close. I guess someone around 1.70m You won’t have a big problem.
The handlebars, on the other hand, are very comfortable for me, with a good height and without hitting my knees in the tightest maneuvers, where, by the way, the NX Cross has a great turning radius.
NEXT NX Cross 125i Test: Dynamic Behavior, Versatility and Agility
Dynamically, the scooter runs very well. It has a mousey character with ease in changing direction, thanks to its 14 and 13 inch wheels, which make it very manageable. When turning, the scooter stays stable and no wobbles nor inaccuracies.
When cruising and driving in urban environments, the suspensions appear soft, which gives a high level of comfort. When going over bumps and speed bumps, you can see how you use the entire route (at least I do, with my weight), but in turns and accelerations, you don’t lose agility or speed.
Yes, I must point out that if the driver is heavy, as is my case, and very abrupt and forced turns are made, he or she may rub against the underside of the scooter. However, even in those severe turns, the suspension responds well.
As for its ability on expressways, we checked it when we joined the M50. Even on uphill sections, dragging my 100 kg, the scooter responds. Although you have to go full throttle, we were able to reach 105 km/h, 110, 113, and at some point I saw 115 km/h. This goes some way to confirming that the scooter is suitable for intercity use, as allows you to maintain reasonable speeds to mix with the rest of the traffic without problems.
