Just the job for the learner hipsters out there
We say that actually – but from the evidence up in that London, plenty of trendy beard-wranglers seem content to stick with a stylish 125 for urban commuting duties these days even after passing the test. So Yamaha’s lightweight, snappy XSR125 makes a lot of sense on a few fronts.
Under the now-familiar XSR styling shared with the 900 and 700 versions, we have a pretty impressive 125 motor. It’s the same one as used on the MT-125 and YZF-R125, meaning a neat variable-valve-timing setup that gives great torque, and a full 14.96bhp output. That’s the maximum you can have on a learner-legal machine – woo. The chassis is similar to the MT-125, with a Deltabox frame and USD forks, though with skinnier 37mm stanchions rather than the MT’s 41mm, and a sliding two-piston front caliper rather than the flash four-pot radial caliper on the MT and R125. We do like the natty round LCD dash and slick old-school design though.
Pricing is from £4,450, and the new XSR comes in red, yellow or black colourways.
Key Features
- 125cc 14.96bhp EU5 Engine
- Neo retro design
- 37mm USD front Forks
- Comfortable riding position
- Lightweight alloy wheels
- Block-pattern tyres
- Classic circular LED headlight and LED taillight
- Light and strong Deltabox frame
- Retro-style circular LCD meter