Mash Black Seven 125
French motorcycle manufacturer Mash was established in 2011. Importing Chinese bikes that are then upgraded, their aim is to make bikes that are a tribute to the late 60s and early 70s, with a modern feel. The range features bikes from 125cc (like our test bike) up to a (introduced in 2020) 650. Mash had an unfortunate lack of UK supplier when Three Cross Motorcycles folded. Thankfully, they have partnered with Motomondo to re-open the supply line into the UK.
Our test bike was the Black 7 125. This model was launched in 2017, with improvements in 2019.
Give me some spec
A 124cc air-cooled SOHC engine puts out 11.6hp at 8,750rpm. Seat height is 780mm, dry weight a lightweight 122kg. Top speed is somewhere in the 60s, being brought to a halt by a single 300mm front disc with 3-piston caliper and single 220mm rear.
It’s a linked system, giving a 70/30 split of power. It features a 14-litre sculpted tank (big capacity for a small machine).
So what is it like to ride?
It’s a very nice place to sit. The retro look really suits the little Mash, giving the appearance of a larger machine. At 5’10” it felt roomy; the 780mm seat height should cause only the smallest of riders any issue, it is so slender.
The engine gives decent power for a 125. Once up to speed it spins nicely (6,000rpm is good, much above that the vibrations get downright unpleasant). As you’d guess, overtakes require very careful planning.
Gearbox is light and positive. 1st gear’s only function is to engage the box; you’ll be out of that and through 2nd (start you moving) and into the decently flexible 3rd as quickly as possible.
It’s a sweet handling little thing (I am told correct tyre pressures are essential for this bike; let them deflate and it’ll have a major impact). It has a tight turning circle; cornering is no effort required, just look where you want to go and it will follow your lead.
That saddle is just firm enough for support, just soft enough for comfort (it doesn’t quite sit in line with the sculpted tank). Suspension offers plenty of give (you’ll want to avoid bigger potholes). With a 14-litre tank that is sipped at, you could spend a lot of miles in the saddle.
Brakes? Hmmm. They’ll stop you, but they’re definitely the weakest part of the package.
Mirrors gave good feedback. The basic analogue clocks are nice, but being in kmph it required mental arithmetic every time the speed limit changed.
If looks are important to you, the Mash Black 7 is definitely pleasing to the eye (I could see it being the learner bike/urban commuter choice for the Shoreditch Set).
What nick is it in?
Under 100 miles on the clock, it’s pristine.
What’s it worth?
The dealer wants £2,999 for a 2020 bike with 96 miles on the clock. To my utter bewilderment, I found just one other used bike for sale; another 2020 bike with similar mileage for £2,499.