If you’re someone who dreams of owning a sporty motorcycle that’s light on the pocket yet heavy on features, then the Yamaha YZF R 125 deserves your attention. With its aggressive styling inspired by bigger R-series bikes, the R125 offers beginner riders and city commuters the perfect balance between performance, economy, and style.
The Yamaha YZF R 125 is the entry-level member of Yamaha’s iconic R-series sportbike lineup. It carries the look and feel of a track machine but is tuned for everyday usability, especially suited for young riders, city dwellers, and beginners who want a taste of performance without the bulk of a higher-capacity motorcycle.
While it’s aimed at the 125cc segment, the Yamaha YZF R 125 brings premium features like a liquid-cooled engine, aggressive styling, and a modern digital display—all in a compact and easy-to-handle package.
Yamaha YZF R 125 Price – Affordable Sportbike Thrill
Pricing can vary depending on the country and the year of the model, but generally speaking, the Yamaha YZF R 125 is priced competitively to attract new riders and young buyers.
Expected Price Range:
- Ex-showroom Price: ₹1.25 lakh to ₹1.40 lakh (in India)
- On-road Price: ₹1.30 lakh to ₹1.50 lakh (depending on location, insurance, and registration)
In international markets such as Europe, the R125 may retail for between €4,000 and €6,000, depending on trim level, ABS availability, and currency exchange rates.
What You Get for the Price:
- Premium R-series styling
- Liquid-cooled 4-stroke engine
- Assist and slipper clutch
- Digital LCD display
- Dual-channel ABS (in most markets)
- LED lighting setup
- Excellent fit and finish
When you consider the tech and refinement Yamaha packs into this entry-level bike, the price point is actually a strong value proposition.
Yamaha YZF R 125 Mileage – Fuel Efficiency Meets Fun
If you’re thinking that a sporty 125cc bike must guzzle fuel, think again. The Yamaha YZF R 125 is surprisingly fuel-efficient, making it a fantastic choice for daily commuting as well as weekend fun.
Real-World Mileage Figures:
- City Riding: 40–45 km/l
- Highway Riding: 45–50 km/l
- Combined Average: Around 45 km/l
These numbers can vary depending on your riding style, traffic conditions, and how often you shift gears. But overall, the Yamaha YZF R 125 performs admirably in terms of fuel economy.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
- Approximately 11.5 liters
With a tank that size and efficient fuel usage, you can expect a full tank to deliver over 450 km of range—perfect for commutes and longer weekend rides alike.
Offers and Promotions – Making Ownership Easier
While Yamaha typically doesn’t offer massive discounts on new launches, seasonal promotions and dealer-specific offers are common with the R125.
Typical Offers Include:
- Cash Discounts or Loyalty Bonuses
- Festive Offers and Holiday Deals
- Free Accessories: Tank pads, helmets, tail tidy kits
- Exchange Bonuses for older bikes
- Low-Interest EMI Options or 0% Down Payment Schemes
- Student or First-Time Buyer Programs
These offers are usually time-sensitive and can differ based on your location and dealership. It’s always a good idea to inquire about ongoing promotions before finalizing your purchase.
Engine and Performance – Small Displacement, Big Fun
The Yamaha YZF R125 may be small in engine size, but it’s packed with performance features that make it a joy to ride, especially for new and intermediate riders.
Engine Specs:
- Displacement: 124.7cc
- Cooling: Liquid-cooled
- Engine Type: Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC
- Power Output: ~15 PS at 9,000 rpm
- Torque: ~11.5 Nm at 8,000 rpm
Performance Perks:
- 6-speed gearbox ensures smooth acceleration and better highway capability
- Assist and Slipper Clutch makes gear shifts lighter and smoother, especially under quick deceleration
- Top Speed: Approximately 125–130 km/h, depending on conditions
This performance setup ensures that the Yamaha YZF R 125 doesn’t feel underpowered for a 125cc—it feels agile, peppy, and well-tuned for both city and open road use.
Ride and Handling – Precision Built for Everyday Riding
With its Deltabox frame, the YZF-R125 offers excellent handling and a responsive feel. Whether you’re slicing through traffic or enjoying winding back roads, the R125 remains planted and composed.
Ride Highlights:
- Front Suspension: 41 mm upside-down telescopic forks
- Rear Suspension: Linked-type mono-shock
- Brakes: Disc brakes at both ends (292 mm front, 230 mm rear)
- ABS: Dual-channel in most models
The suspension is tuned for a mix of sporty responsiveness and urban comfort. Cornering is sharp and confidence-inspiring, and braking is strong and progressive thanks to the well-calibrated ABS.
Comfort and Ergonomics – Sporty but Practical
Though the R125 has a sporty seating position, it’s not as extreme as its bigger supersport siblings. Riders of average height will find it comfortable for everyday use, with just enough lean to give it that sporty feel without being tiring.
Comfort Features:
- Seat Height: Approximately 820 mm – manageable for most riders
- Weight: Around 140 kg (kerb weight)
- Clip-on Handlebars: Slightly raised for less wrist strain
- Pillion Seat: Present, but not ideal for long rides
The riding position encourages control and confidence, and shorter commutes are very comfortable. However, long-distance touring may require a few comfort breaks.
Technology and Features – Modern Essentials Included
The Yamaha YZF-R125 comes packed with modern features that enhance rider experience and safety.
Notable Features:
- Fully Digital LCD Display: Shows speed, RPM, gear position, fuel level, and trip meters
- LED Headlamps and Taillights: Bright, energy-efficient, and stylish
- Sporty Exhaust Note: Adds excitement to the ride
- Stylish Alloy Wheels and premium body graphics
These features elevate the R125 beyond a simple commuter. It feels premium, both in terms of design and in how it responds to rider input.
Who Is It For?
The Yamaha YZF-R125 is best suited for:
- New Riders: Easy to handle and lightweight, it’s great for learning
- Commuters: Excellent mileage and a compact frame for city riding
- Style-Conscious Riders: Aggressive, R-series inspired design
- College Students/Young Professionals: Sporty image, affordable price tag
- Weekend Riders: Fun for short getaways and city escapes
It’s not ideal for long-distance touring or for riders who prefer upright, relaxed positions. But for nearly everything else, it’s a fantastic option.
Pros and Cons Summary
Let’s summarize everything with a clear, no-nonsense list.
Pros:
- Stylish R-series looks
- Efficient and fuel-friendly
- Great value for money
- Premium build quality
- Sporty but practical performance
- Reliable Yamaha engineering
- Offers and EMI options often available
Cons:
- Aggressive riding position may not suit everyone
- Pillion seat is small
- Not ideal for long-distance touring
- Slightly high pricing compared to naked 125cc bikes
Final Verdict: A Well-Rounded, Stylish Performer
The Yamaha YZF-R125 may be the baby of the R-series family, but don’t let that fool you—it’s a sharp, efficient, and confidence-boosting sportbike that delivers more than what most expect from a 125cc machine.