Yamaha MT-125 in the driving report

Yamaha MT-125 in the driving report

Get naked, little one!

Yamaha is stepping up in the competitive light motorcycle segment. Based on the recently revised YZF-R 125, the Yamaha MT-125 is now appearing as the fifth model in the “Masters of Torque” series. Does it have what it takes to benefit from the success of the MT-09 and MT-07?

Wait a minute: “MT – Masters of Torque”, doesn’t that actually mean “Master of Torque”? With a 125cc, no matter how well it is in the feed, that is hardly the case. But let’s not be so petty, after all, it’s only logical that Yamaha is looking to expand the latest success story of the MT family by an eight-liter chapter and has added a bare sister to the hit YZF-R 125 – the Yamaha MT-125.

Yamaha MT-125 in the driving report

Get naked, little one!

Yamaha MT-125 with the YZF-R 125, because both bikes were developed in parallel. That means: The MT-125 has a sturdy steel bridge frame, a modern, water-cooled 15 HP engine with gasoline injection and, as a highlight, an amply dimensioned upside-down telescopic fork with a radially screwed four-piston caliper at the forehead. The best prerequisites to get involved in the sporty 125cc series.

Typical MT ergonomics are pleasing

When sitting on, the Yamaha MT-125 pleases with its typical MT ergonomics. Thanks to the new tank-seat combination, compared to the R 125 you sit a little lower and much better integrated, more in the than on the motorcycle. The high, wide handlebars come a little towards the driver and enable an upright, comfortable sitting position that is slightly oriented towards the front wheel. Only the relatively acute knee angles due to the high-mounted footrests should pinch tall pilots in the long run.

Unlike the racer relatives, the urban stop-and-go at the presentation in Barcelona with the Yamaha MT-125 is not a test of nerves. The 138 kilograms (with a full tank, factory specification) can be easily circled around the crawling piles of metal and thus conquered the pole at the traffic lights. The four-valve engine is one of the strongest representatives of its class, but the tachometer shouldn’t fall below the 7000 mark for a brisk start.

Yamaha MT-125 is a small handling miracle

Finally arrived in the curvy hinterland of the Catalan capital, the Yamaha MT-125 presents itself just like the YZF-R 125 as a small handling miracle. It follows the pilot’s choice of lines with great lightness, while remaining stable and dampening bumps in the road. Inevitably, you let the gas sit longer and longer, surfing corners in ever greater lean angles. And if it does get a bit too much of a good thing, the front and rear can be decelerated at the highest level, but without ABS.

The MT offspring also does well in everyday life and could therefore be attractive to commuters as well as the young target group. Both will be pleased with the low consumption (2.5 liters / 100 km) as well as with the clearly structured, informative cockpit. In addition to parts for optical tuning, the accessories catalog also includes hand protectors, a tank bag and a large 39-liter topcase for mounting on the otherwise rather uncomfortable pillion seat. In terms of price, the Yamaha MT-125 for 4095 euros is on par with the competition, so it cannot quite claim the bargain status of its bigger sisters. Nevertheless, she has become a real MT.

Technical data Yamaha MT-125

Engine: Single-cylinder four-stroke engine, a balance shaft, an overhead, chain-driven camshaft, four valves, rocker arm, injection, Ø 28 mm, regulated catalytic converter, 235 W alternator, 12 V / 6 Ah battery, mechanically operated multi -plate oil bath clutch, six-speed gearbox, chain, Secondary gear ratio 3.429.

Bore x stroke: 52.0 x 58.6 mm
Displacement: 124 cc
Compression ratio: 11.2: 1
rated capacity: 11.0 kW (15 PS) at 9000 rpm
Max. Torque: 12.4 Nm at 8000 rpm

Chassis: Bridge frame made of steel, upside-down fork, Ø 41 mm, two-arm swing arm made of aluminum, central spring strut with lever system, adjustable spring base, front disc brake, Ø 292 mm, double-piston floating caliper , rear disc brake, Ø 230 mm, single-piston floating caliper.

Cast aluminum wheels: 2.75 x 17; 3.75 x 17
Tires: 100/80 R 17; 130/70 17

Dimensions + weights: Wheelbase 1355 mm, steering head angle 65.0 degrees, caster 89 mm, spring travel f / r 130/114 mm, seat height 810 mm, weight with a full tank of 138 kg, permissible total weight 323 kg, tank capacity / reserve 11.5 / 1.2 liters.

Guarantee: two years
Colors: Red, gray, blue
Price: 4095 euros
Additional costs: 150 euros

Guest test how

Yamaha

Alexander Duwendag (18), YouTuber (YoungRider 125cc), privately drives the KTM Duke 125 and took part in the presentation in Barcelona as a MOTORRAD guest tester and ambassador for the MT-125.

Personally, I really like the aggressive "Dark Side of Japan" design of the MT-125. In terms of handling, the MT and Duke 125 are very close together. Both are super easy to handle, and the engines don’t give a damn either. You have to look at the little things. The gearbox of the MT shifts more smoothly and the seating position is a little more relaxed than that of the Duke. The lower consumption is also positive. However, the rear brake of the Yamaha MT-125 is very direct.

Offers for the Yamaha MT-125

Used Yamaha MT-125 in Germany

In the 125cc class, the Yamaha MT-125 is at the forefront. Those interested should take a look at the used motorcycle exchange. There are used Yamaha MT-125s in good condition and at reasonable prices: Used Yamaha MT-125 in Germany

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