aborning

I found both these used machines for about $400 each. Does anyone have these? I have a Bernina 440QE I love but want a second machine to take to classes--so don't want to spend more than $500. I am not able to try these machines -- as they are on ebay--so wondering if anyone has these that they can give advice on. I had a 230 Activa for a short time and then traded it for the 440QE. (I know--dumb idea--but $ was a matter for me at that time and the 440 was expensive). Anyway, both the Bernina 125 and the Bernina 140 look very similar to the 230 Activa I had so I think I am comfortable without trying the machine--as long as I hear positive feedback about them on here.

bucky383

My first Bernina was a 230 Activa which I love, and I got a good deal on an Activa 145 on EBay, so purchased for a backup machine. I paid around 450.00 for it. They are almost the same machine, just different trim colors. The 145 I got does not have the needle threader which the 230 does have. I think the 145 just has a few more stitches than the 140. The 200 series Activas seem to sell for several hundred dollars more than the 100 series. I am very happy with mine, it was like new.

Tartan

I have used my Bernina Activa 125 for about 10 years and have replaced the foot pedal and one tiny spring that escaped down from the light area. The spring didn't effect the sewing but I was worried it would damage something to run it without it so I got it repaired and cleaned for about $120. It is my back up machine and my class machine (I think I paid about $2000 when I bought it new)?
I have since updated to my Bernina 440 for my main machine. I do miss the auto threader, better lighting and pop off feed dog cover when I switch to the Activa but it is still a really good machine. I also like that all the feet and bobbins are interchangeable.

SusieQOH

I have a 150 QE but I wouldn't part with it for anything. It's never had a repair in 18 years of heavy use.
I now have a 770 and it's a great machine.

The price you mentioned sounds good.