Since the dawn of Grand Prix motorcycle racing, the 125 cc class has served as a proving ground for factories and riders alike, producing frenetic racing and memorable machines. The 250 cc Moto3 class replaced the classic 125 cc category twelve years ago, but Grand Prix racing’s ‘starter’ series continues to provide thrills?and glimpses of future MotoGP superstars.
This SYM Wolf 125 pays homage to the golden age of 125 cc GP racing. It’s the work of Eric Ku?a Taiwanese custom motorcycle builder who works under the moniker of FirstRider Custom and loves vintage race bikes.

?I have a strong passion for 1960s racing, particularly as a Honda enthusiast,? he tells us. ?I aspired to create my own vintage racing motorcycle, visualizing myself speeding down the track. I also fantasized about what designs I would have implemented as a designer back then to help racers win championships.? In stock form, the SYM Wolf 125 is a humble commuter?albeit an immensely popular one in its home country. But Eric’s Wolf is unrecognizable. Undertaking every task himself, save for the paint job, he went to great lengths to transform the bike into a modern take on iconic classics like the Honda RC143.

?The overall design takes cues from Honda’s RC series,? Eric confirms. ?I adjusted the body proportions to fit my physique, including legroom and chin clearance. The tail section incorporates some modern elements similar to the fixed-wing structures seen in to...