Yamaha YS125 2019 — Specifications

Are you looking for a simple, efficient, and hassle-free 125 for the city? The 2019 Yamaha YS125 could well be the answer. It doesn’t dazzle with racing figures, but it hits the mark where it counts: in everyday use. At €2999, it positions itself as an honest proposition against the competition, particularly the Honda CB125F. The choice between these two Japanese models often boils down to a detail of feeling or design, because their mission is identical: to be the most reliable and economical companion possible for beginners or pragmatic urban riders.

The YS125, formerly the YBR, has had a much-needed makeover. Its lines are sharper, with a feline head and darkened elements that give it a less anonymous look. But Yamaha has kept a cool head: we’re not looking for sporty thrills here; the MT-125 is for that. The objective is accessibility and ease of use. With a seat height of 795 mm, the riding position is slightly more dominant and comfortable than before, ideal for seeing over cars in traffic. The weight of 129 kg when fully fueled remains a major asset for maneuverability, even if the machine gained a few kilos during its transformation.

The heart of the matter lies in its 125cc single-cylinder engine. Yamaha reworked the engine to favor torque, with a longer stroke. We get 11 horsepower at 7500 rpm and 10.8 Nm at 6000 rpm. It’s not a rocket, the top speed caps around 110 km/h, but that’s precisely what’s asked of a machine of this kind: progressive power and ease of use that forgive all the mistakes of a novice. Consumption is frugal and the 14-liter tank promises serious range, perfect for daily commutes or stress-free short getaways.

The chassis remains deliberately simple and economical. Steel frame, telescopic fork, disc brake at the front and… drum brake at the rear. This latter specificity, almost anachronistic today, contributes to the low-cost philosophy and ease of maintenance. Yamaha’s UBS integral braking system provides a welcome additional safety margin. The instrumentation has gained modernity with a mix of analog and digital, a small step towards the contemporary without extravagance.

Who is it for? For the aspiring motorcyclist who wants a forgiving machine, for the urban dweller looking for an agile and economical mode of transport, or for those who want a second motorcycle without complications. If you are considering buying a Yamaha YS125, you are primarily looking for reliability and economy. Comparing the Yamaha YS125 price with that of the Honda CB125F is a relevant exercise, but beyond the euros, the choice is often made on a feeling. The YS125, this evolution of the Yamaha YBR 125 Custom, proves that renewal can be subtle: change the robe, keep the soul.