Stylish, well-equipped, and boasting a heritage unmatched by many in the 125cc category, the 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle cements its reputation as a lightweight sports bike class heavyweight. This model has long been a favorite among entry-level riders and those seeking a sporty, learner-legal motorcycle that offers style, performance, and reliability. In fact the motorcycle has successfully managed to secure its place among the list of Top Ten Best 125cc Bikes in the World in 2023.To put the 2023 model to the test, we ventured to Barcelona, Spain, to experience this race-inspired machine on both the road and track.
2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle – Features
Price and PCP example
The 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle starts at a competitive price of £5,302, offering two standard color options: Icon Blue and Tech Black. These colors cater to riders who prefer a sleek, understated aesthetic. For those desiring a more unique and eye-catching design, the 60th Anniversary model is available at £5,502. This slight price increase is justified by its exclusive styling, celebrating Yamaha’s rich racing history.
Also Read: 2023 Yamaha MT-10 Sports Motorcycle Review
The 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle is not only accessible in terms of price but also through Yamaha’s PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) scheme. By placing a £2,000 deposit, buyers can spread the cost with 36 monthly payments of just £44. This financing plan includes a mileage limit of 4,000 miles per year, making the R125 an affordable and practical choice for riders looking to upgrade to their first sports motorcycle.
What’s new with the 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle?
Yamaha has implemented several updates to ensure the 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle remains competitive in the face of rivals like the KTM RC125 and Aprilia RS125. The most noticeable change is its refreshed front-end styling, which now mirrors the design of Yamaha’s larger R7 model. This aggressive and modern look ensures the R125 stands out as a stylish and contemporary machine.
Also Read: 2023 Yamaha MT-10 SP Sports Motorcycle Review
Beyond aesthetics, Yamaha has enhanced the bike’s technology. The 2023 model features a new full-color TFT display, replacing the previous LCD unit. This upgrade not only improves visibility but also integrates Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to pair their smartphones for notifications and other features.
The updated switchgear is another welcome improvement, designed to make the rider interface more intuitive. Additionally, the bike is pre-wired for an optional quick-shifter, making it easier for riders to add this performance-enhancing feature without any complex modifications. These updates align the 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle with modern expectations, ensuring it remains a top contender in its segment.
2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle – road and track review
Testing the 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle on the road and track provided a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities. Starting with a 60-mile ride through the scenic landscapes around Barcelona, the bike showcased its versatility as both a practical commuter and a spirited weekend machine.
Motorway stretches, often tedious on larger bikes, became exhilarating experiences aboard the 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle. Its lightweight build encouraged playful slipstreaming among riders, transforming a straightforward journey into a competitive race. The bike’s eagerness makes even mundane rides engaging, emphasizing the joy of riding a lightweight sports motorcycle.
The real fun began when we hit the twisty mountain roads west of Barcelona. Here, the 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle shone as a nimble and responsive machine, ideally suited to sharp corners and rapid direction changes. Its modest power output encourages riders to focus on their skills, such as selecting the right gear, optimizing body positioning, and perfecting cornering lines. These challenges add a layer of engagement that many more significant, powerful bikes often need to improve.
Engine
The heart of the 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle remains its proven 125cc single-cylinder engine, delivering 11kW (14.7bhp) of power and 11.5Nm (8.4lb-ft) of torque. While these figures align with the learner-legal limit, the bike’s performance is anything but ordinary. Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology ensures optimal power delivery across the rev range, balancing torque and top-end performance.
During our test, the VVA light on the TFT display illuminated frequently, indicating the engine’s hard work keeping us powered. The engine’s responsiveness and smoothness contribute to an enjoyable riding experience, whether tackling city traffic or carving through mountain roads.
An assist and slipper clutch add to the engine’s versatility. This feature prevents rear-wheel lock-ups during aggressive downshifting, which is particularly useful in challenging or spirited riding. Although a quick-shifter isn’t standard, Yamaha has made it easy to install one, further enhancing the bike’s appeal for performance-oriented riders.
Handling, suspension, and brakes
The 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle has long been praised for its exceptional handling, and the 2023 model continues this tradition. Its Deltabox frame provides a sturdy and responsive foundation, while KYB suspension components ensure a comfortable and controlled ride. The front suspension features 41mm non-adjustable forks, while the rear shock is adjustable for preload, allowing riders to tailor the setup according to their preferences.
The bike’s lightweight construction and precise handling make it an ideal choice for new riders and those looking to refine their skills. The braking system, which includes ABS as standard, offers excellent stopping power and inspires confidence in various conditions.
Riders will also appreciate the new R1-inspired top clamp, which adds a touch of sophistication to the cockpit. Its premium design reflects the attention to detail Yamaha has invested in the 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle, ensuring it looks and feels like a high-quality machine.
The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections on the road, offering a smooth and enjoyable ride. On the track, it remains composed, offering enough feedback to inspire confidence in tight corners. While a firmer front setup would have been ideal for track use, the overall balance is excellent, catering to the needs of most riders.
2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle – Review
The 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle came alive during our track sessions at the Vendrell go-kart circuit. Its lightweight design and responsive handling made navigating the tight, technical layout a thrilling experience. While its 14.7bhp might seem modest on paper, the bike’s engaging character encourages riders to push their limits and hone their skills.
Gear selection is crucial to maintaining momentum, and the R125’s slick and precise gearbox makes this task a joy. The optional quick-shifter on the track test bikes further enhances the experience, allowing seamless upshifts that maximize performance.
The assist and slipper clutch also played a vital role on the track, particularly during aggressive downshifts. This feature ensured stability and prevented rear-wheel chatter, allowing us to focus on hitting apexes and perfecting our lines.
The KYB suspension impressed me with its poise and adaptability. On the shiny, polished surface of the go-kart track, it provided enough grip and feedback to inspire confidence, even during hard cornering. While not a dedicated track machine, the 2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle performed admirably, showcasing its versatility as a road and track bike.
Another standout feature is the updated styling, which brings the R125 into line with Yamaha’s larger R-series models. Its aggressive design, combined with the new TFT display and Bluetooth connectivity, elevates it above many competitors in the 125cc category.
Overall, the 2023 Yamaha R125 is a brilliant choice for those entering the world of motorcycling or seeking a lightweight, fun, and stylish machine. It gives a unique blend of performance, practicality, and modern features, making it a must-have on any young rider’s wishlist.
2023 Yamaha R125 Sports Motorcycle – Technical Specification
Engine
| Type | 4-stroke, Liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4-valves |
| Displacement | 125cc |
| Bore x stroke | 52,0 mm x 58,7 mm |
| Compression ratio | 11.2: 1 |
| Maximum power | 11,0kW (15.0PS) @ 10.000 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 11,5Nm (1,16kg-m) @ 8.000 rpm |
| Lubrication system | Wet sump |
| Clutch type | Wet, Multiple Disc |
| Ignition system | TCI (digital) |
| Starter system | Electric |
| Transmission system | Constant Mesh, 6-speed |
| Final transmission | Chain |
| Fuel consumption | 2,1 L / 100 km |
| CO2 emission | 47 g/km |
| Fuel system | Electronic Fuel Injection |
Chassis
| Frame | Steel Deltabox |
| Caster angle | 26º |
| Trail | 95mm |
| Front suspension system | Upside-down telescopic fork, Ø41 mm |
| Rear suspension system | Swingarm (Link type suspension) |
| Front travel | 130 mm |
| Rear travel | 110 mm |
| Front brake | Hydraulic single disc, Ø292 mm |
| Rear brake | Hydraulic single disc, Ø220 mm |
| Front tyre | 100/80-17 M/C |
| Rear tyre | 140/70-17 M/C |
Dimensions
| Overall length | 1.990 mm |
| Overall width | 715 mm |
| Overall height | 1.145 mm |
| Seat height | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1.325 mm |
| Minimum ground clearance | 160mm |
| Wet weight (including full oil & fuel tank) | 144 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 11,0 litres |
| Oil tank capacity | 1,15 litres |
