Almost 15 years after the launch of the first YZF-R125, Yamaha has given the little one Supersport for the A1 license a major update. Most striking is the new design, which clearly strengthens the family bond with the R-series, but that’s not the only thing that has been adapted for 2023.
When Yamaha released the very first YZF-R125 in 2008, the Japanese had foresight. Initially, in a then divided Europe in terms of driving license legislation, there did not seem to be a strong market for this, in contrast to Asia, where 125cc engines are hard to come by, but that changed when the new driving license directive came into effect in 2013 and the 125cc became the new driver. (A1) entry-level class became the phased motorcycle license.
Although in the A1 segment the possibilities to innovate are quite limited due to the rules – the maximum power is fixed, as well as the maximum power-to-weight ratio – Yamaha has not been idle in the past 15 years with regard to further development of the R125.
However, the previous updates are small beer to what Yamaha has come up with for 2023. Starting with the radically changed design, which according to Yamaha is directly derived from the R7. A powerful new multi-function LED headlight sits centrally in the M-shaped nose.
The ultra-compact dimensions and low weight of the headlamp allowed the installation of a highly aerodynamic front fairing, with the R7-inspired LED contour lighting, which gives the R125 a radically new ‘big-bike’ look, which is what the R1-inspired top triple clamp is underlined once more.
In addition to the new look, Yamaha has now also equipped the R125 with the new 5″ TFT color display that was previously announced with the MT-07 and Ténéré 700. As with the MT and Ténéré, you also have a choice of two graphic themes, in this case “Street” and “Track”.
The “Street” theme includes a central digital speedometer and a bar tachometer. At the bottom of the screen is a series of warning lights including the turn signal, high beam, temperature and more. The “Track” theme is a more track-oriented layout, with a central lap timer with 25-lap memory and a tachometer with bars above it.
Both screen themes have a programmable toggle light at the top of the display. The “Track” theme also includes a programmable rev counter range, allowing you to customize the visuals to suit your riding style and individual preferences.
Of course, the TFT display has Bluetooth connectivity, with which the motorcycle can be linked to the Yamaha MyRide app on your smartphone. That is, if you downloaded it from the App Store or Market Place. Once connected, the TFT display shows all notifications of incoming calls and text messages. The most important parameters of the R125 can be tracked via the app.
Remarkably, Yamaha has equipped the 2023 YZF-R125 with traction control, which together with the slip-assist clutch and optional quickshifter should ensure that you have optimal control over the little one supersport at all times, even when you’re full in the rain. the gas goes and wet autumn leaves have made the road surface extra slippery.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.