Yamaha have launched an all new retro-styled XSR125 that fits in its ‘Faster And Sons’ ethos and joins the existing 700 and 900. As we would expect, it’s based on the MT 125’s engine and chassis, which in turn takes its lead from the companies R125. A CG 125 this isn’t!
Putting one of these together and launching it on the European market has been made a lot easier for the Japanese giant since they started using common chassis and engines across a range of different bikes. Now the learner can ride something that doesn’t look like they are doing some sort of penance for learning how to ride!
Indeed, the new Yamaha XSR 125 takes a load of its styling ques from its bigger and older siblings in the XSR range. To that end it’s a premium machine. The long flat seat, round headlamp as well as the black on black of the engine and frame all attest to the thought put into how the new bike will look.
Of course it’s not just how it looks. The bike has a delta box frame as well as a set of upside down forks. These are both features that we would expect to see on a much bigger engined and more expensive machine. The single cylinder engine also delivers all 11kw of power. This is the maximum allowed in it’s learner legal class and does so with full Euro 5 compliance making it future proof. It even features variable valve actuation and has a six speed gear box.
Wheels are cast alloy affairs. And they come with appropriately styled tyres with the front being wider than anything else in the companies 125cc range. The clocks are a full LCD affair. They are negatively lit which adds to how well they look while they manage not to take anything from the bikes retro looks thanks to being housed in a traditional round housing on top of the forks.
Details like the ‘tuck and roll’ seat as well as the headlamp and tail light being LED units, the front is even embellished with an XSR logo, just add to the premium feel of what has traditionally been the budget end of the market. Production has already started in Yamaha's French factory. We can expect to see the bikes in dealerships within the next few weeks.
