Lighter is better.

Now even lighter-new refinements along with an aluminum frame housing an amazingly compact engine results in the consummate combination of power and lightness no other 125 can match.

2008 Yamaha YZ125

Specifications
  • Segment: Array
  • Engine/Motor: liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed-valve inducted
  • Transmission: 6-speed

Test Ride


I loved the power delivery... it has a very smooth power band for a 125, a lot more torque then I expected from a 2-stroke. Don't get me wrong though, this thing absolutely hauls! This thing just pulls from top to bottom. I loved how light this bike was. It seems like you can just flick it around, and the suspension is amazing, I love it. I had no problems wheeling and jumping, it really boosts your confidence. The main thing is this bike just goes, I've had no problems with it, it's a rocket! No wonder almost every magazine named it 125 of the year!

Conclusion


This 2 stroke is a good beginner bike. The power is smooth so it is very controllable and won't rip your arms off at the shoulder (if controlled properly). It sits a little tall so I wouldn't recommend it for shorter riders, but if you use caution when testing the clutch and finding the power band and don't open it up first try, it could be a great introduction into dirt bikes. Once you ride this bike you won't be able to wipe the smile off your face!

Features

 

Key Features:

  • A light, aluminum frame housing an amazingly light and compact engine results in an awesome power-to-weight ratio.
  • 610 grams off the front end makes this the quickest turning, best-handling YZ125 ever.
  • Ready to race out-of-the-crate, complete with a ProTaper aluminum handlebar, titanium footpegs and gripper seat.
  • A pure motocross machine, the light and nimble YZ125 is the perfect choice for riders stepping up from the 85cc class.

 

 Engine:

  • Amazingly compact 124cc reed-valve-inducted two-stroke helps produce an awesome power-to-weight ratio.
  • Patented YPVS™ power-valve system combines crisp, hard-hitting bottom-end acceleration with strong midrange and eye-opening top end.
  • 38mm Mikuni TMX carburetor gives excellent throttle response and serious horsepower.
  • Six-speed, close-ratio transmission optimizes gear ratios for maximum performance.
  • Digital CDI ignition system delivers precise spark and monitors engine speed to ensure optimal timing for faster, stronger response during hard acceleration.
  • Large-capacity radiator features a 10-row core with four louvers to deliver maximum cooling efficiency at all performance levels.
  • Primary kickstarting ensures easy restarts in any gear.
  • Trick, works-style clutch lever features race-spec barrel adjuster for on-the-fly adjustability.

 

Chassis/Suspension:

  • A carefully engineered, advanced aluminum frame and swingarm give the YZ125 the best handling in the class.
  • Speed-Sensitive System 48mm Kayaba fork tubes move the transfer control valves (TCV) above the fork springs, so that damping force is controlled by piston speed instead of position. Along with a bigger base valve hole, the result is a smooth ride and super-precise handling.
  • Removable aluminum rear subframe constructed of square-section tubing for reduced weight.
  • Rear, fully adjustable Kayaba shock features a super-light titanium shock spring and reduced-friction Kashima coating of internals. 12.4 inches of travel, separate adjusters for high- and low-speed compression damping, and a full lock oil rebound system for increased comfort all add up to fantastic rear wheel control and a sweet ride.
  • Lightweight front and rear calipers with aluminum pistons and anti-bubble front master cylinder, 250mm floating front and 245mm rear discs, deliver strong stopping power with progressive feel.
  • Tapered rear wheel spacers ease sliding the rear wheel into place for quicker tire changes.
  • Premium Dunlop knobbies offer race-spec traction and wear.

 

Additional Features:

  • Special-design “gripper” type seat and fuel tank, forward-canted steering crown and low ProTaper handlebar all help create greater freedom of movement and more comfortable ergonomics for riders.
  • Wide, cleated, folding titanium footpegs are lightweight and provide excellent comfort, grip and ground clearance.
  • Use of light, box-head bolts throughout the chassis eases maintenance while reducing weight for increased performance.
  • Wide-diameter fuel tank cap for easier refueling.
  • Repackable exhaust silencer.
  • Durable, comfortable handlebar grips.

 

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SPECS


Engine
Type:    124cc, liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed-valve inducted
Bore x Stroke:    54.0 x 54.5mm
Compression Ratio:    8.6~10.7:1
Carburetion:    TMX x 38
Ignition:    CDI
Transmission:    Constant-mesh 6-speed; multiplate wet clutch
Final Drive:    Chain Drive

Chassis
Suspension/Front:    Speed-sensitive system inverted fork; fully adjustable, 11.8-in travel
Suspension/Rear:    Fully adjustable single shock; 12.4-in travel
Brakes/Front:    Hydraulic single disc brake, 250mm
Brakes/Rear:    Hydraulic single disc brake, 245mm
Tires/Front:    80/100-21-51M
Tires/Rear:    100/90-19-57M

Dimensions
Length:    84.1 in
Width:    32.6 in
Height:    51.8 in
Seat Height:    39.3 in
Wheelbase:    56.8 in
Ground Clearance:    15.2 in
Dry Weight:    190 lb
Fuel Capacity:    2.1 gal

Other
Warranty:    30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty)
MSRP:    $5,599 (Team Yamaha Blue/White) Available from August 2007