Ever heard the expression 'Small is beautiful'? It could have been created for the all new YZF-R125, the exciting new member of the R-series family and the most advanced 125 production supersport machine that Yamaha has ever built.

This radical, high-revving, fuel-injected 125 is the work of the same engineers who created our legendary YZF-R1 and YZF-R6 supersport bikes. And, as you'd expect, the YZF-R125 is packed with advanced MotoGP technology as well as a whole range of R-series type engine and chassis features. Its liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 4-valve, single cylinder, SOHC engine is tuned to deliver free-revving performance right through to maximum power at 9000rpm - and for instant response and efficient operation this remarkable 6-speed 125 is equipped with a compact fuel injection system.

The race-inspired chassis features a Deltabox frame and aluminium swinging arm for outstanding handling performance, and lightweight 5-spoke wheels help to minimise unsprung weight to give impressive road holding. A large diameter 292mm front disc with a 230mm diameter rear disc make for effective stopping power, and the aggressive R-series bodywork lets everybody know exactly where this bike is coming from.

The YZF-R125 is targeted at the discerning buyer who demands best-in-class engine and handling performance as well as winning R-series style. In the engine department, the new R125 benefits from a 4-valve cylinder head that delivers high levels of intake and exhaust efficiency for ultra-responsive performance.

For instant throttle response, this new high-tech 125 features a compact fuel injection system fed by a large-capacity airbox which, combined with the two inlet valves, delivers optimum intake efficiency together with excellent throttle response across the rev range.

Featuring bore and stroke dimensions of 52mm x 58.6mm, the compact short-stroke engine has a free-revving character that delivers strong acceleration. This short stroke layout - combined with the performance-boosting qualities of the 4-valve head, fuel injection system and free-flowing exhaust - gives the R125 the strongest overall performance in the 125 4-stroke class.

Performance is also enhanced by the fitment of a free-flowing largecapacity R6-style mid-ship muffler, whose location helps to centralise mass for neutral handling performance. The exhaust system accommodates dual catalysers, as well as an air induction system which introduces air into the exhaust to enable more complete combustion of any unburnt gases, and in doing so it helps to reduce emissions to even lower levels.

To optimise the class-leading performance characteristics of its allnew high-tech 125cc liquid-cooled engine, the R125 is equipped with a 6-speed transmission which keeps the engine on the boil and ensures a competitive top speed.

Engine technical highlights

  • Liquid-cooled single-cylinder 4-stroke
  • SOHC 4-valve cylinder head
  • Wet-sump lubrication system
  • Fuel injection
  • Electric start
  • 6-speed transmission
  • R6-style mid-ship muffler
  • Dual catalysers
  • Air induction system
  • Class leading performance

Full-sized chassis with Deltabox frame

Just like its larger R-series brothers, the new R125 features a lightweight Deltabox frame which delivers an optimum balance of strength and rigidity for class-leading handling performance. The twin spar Deltabox design has proved to be one of the lightest and best-handling frame designs in the supersport category, and its use on the new YZF-R125 underlines Yamaha's total commitment to building the besthandling machine in the class.

One of the most significant features of the new R125 is that it has been constructed with a full-sized chassis, which is unique in its segment. For example, the wheelbase on the new Yamaha R-series is 1353mm, over 58mm greater than a typical sports 125, which helps to enhance stability.

The larger physical size of the machine also allowed Yamaha's designers more freedom in creating a sporty yet comfortable riding position. And finally, the larger chassis gives the machine far greater presence on the street.

With its unmistakeable R-series styling, the R125 stands out in the crowd, and is easy to mistake for a much larger capacity machine. The dual headlights have a distinctive R-series look, while the low frontal area and small tail are clearly influenced by the bigger R-series bikes. And like the chassis, the bodywork is fullsized, making this new sportsbike the most impressive looking machines in the class.

Complementing the race-bred Deltabox frame is a cast aluminium swinging arm. By keeping unsprung weight low, this high quality swinging arm allows the link-type rear suspension system to operate more efficiently and deliver more responsive handling qualities.

Equipped with large-diameter 33mm tubes, the smooth-action front forks are designed to deliver accurate steering together with good rider comfort. For easy manoeuvrability this high quality front suspension system features a steering angle of 24.2degrees and trail of 86.1mm. And with 130mm of wheel travel - over 20mm more than some other models in the class - the full-sized forks on the new R125 perfectly complement the Deltabox frame and aluminium swinging arm to deliver stable yet responsive handling.

High build quality is evident wherever you look on the new R125, and the front braking system is another example of Yamaha's commitment to using only high-specification components. The large diameter 292mm front disc is slowed by a compact twinpot caliper which delivers strong and progressive braking performance for good controllability over a wide range of speeds.

The large single front disc is complemented by a 230mm rear disc, giving the R125 rider accurate control in town as well as on the open road.

As well as ensuring that the unsprung weight is minimised in order to enhance the front and rear suspension performance, the distinctive 10-spoke alloy wheels give the R125 a unique look.

The lightweight wheels are fitted with some of the widest rubber in the class, with a 100/80-17 tyre at the front, and a massive 130/70-17 tyre at the rear, which ensure high levels of traction and underline the YZF-R125's position as the main contender in the sports 125 class for 2008.

Yamaha hasdeveloped a range of quality accessories for YZF-R125 owners wishing to customise their bike. The line-up includes a double bubble screen, a yoke, a seat cover, roller protectors and a tank pad.

Chassis

Technical highlights

  • Lightweight steel Deltabox frame
  • Cast aluminium swinging arm
  • Aggressive R-series styling
  • High quality components
  • Leading build quality
  • Full-sized chassis and bodywork
  • 1355mm wheelbase
  • Sports riding position
  • Dual R-series style headlamps
  • 292mm diameter front disc brake
  • 230mm diameter rear disc brake
  • Ultra-compact tail cowl
  • Compact LED tail light
  • 33mm diameter front forks
  • 130mm front wheel suspension travel
  • Range of accessories:
    • Double bubble screen
    • Seat cover
    • Carbon yoke protector
    • Roller protectors
    • Tank pad