Yamaha MT-125 – little bike offers big style

Yamaha’s naked MT bikes, the MT-07 and the larger MT-09 have both proved popular since their introduction. Now Yamaha hope to cater to even more riders with a smaller version, the MT-125. The bike is based on the YZF-R125, but has the same aggressive streetfighter style as the larger MT bikes.

Despite its small 125cc displacement, the Yamaha MT-125 has a considerable presence. It’s certainly one of the most stylish 125′s on sale right now, and with the all-new YZF-R125 platform underneath, it should be a fun ride too.

The Yamaha MT-125 offers a more upright riding position than the YZF, better suited to its streetfighter image which Yamaha say was influence by “the Dark Side of Japan”. The more relaxed seating position, with wider handlebars and a revised steering angle, is also better for commuting and everyday riding. Other differences between the MT-125 and the YZF, aside from the lack of fairings, include a lower seat height and a shorter fuel tank.

Up front the bike features a headlight unit with LED day-lights, an LED tail light and a full LCD instrument pod with readouts said to be inspired by modern smart phones.

The engine of the Yamaha MT-125  is a 125 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled 4-stroke SOHC 4-valve unit mounted in a steel deltabox frame. Highlights of the chassis include supersport-style 41mm upside fown front forks, and a floating 292mm front disc which is gripped by a radially mounted caliper. The wheels are race-style multispoke units wrapped in a 100/80-17 front tire and a 130/70-17 rear tire.

The Yamaha MT-125 is set to go on sale summer 2014. From launch it will be available in three colors, matt red, matt gray, and race blue. A wide range of accessories will be introduced at the same time the bike arrives in the dealerships. Prices are yet to be announced.