2014 Yamaha YZF-R125 Announced for Europe

Yamaha has updated its YZF-R125 for the European market, refreshing one of the top-selling 125cc sportbikes on the continent. For 2014, the new R125 receives an upside-down fork, revised fuel-injection system, front air-intake and an R6-inspired fairing design.

The engine remains unchanged from the previous version, with a single-cylinder displacing 124.7cc. Like the 2013 R125, the updated model claims 14.8 hp at 9000rpm and 16.8 ft-lb. at 8000 rpm; not exactly world-beating numbers, but suitable for its target market of younger riders.

Like the R6, the R125 has an air intake between its twin headlights. The fuel-injection system has been optimized, with Yamaha claiming an 11% improvement in fuel economy.

A new 41mm upside-down fork replaces the telescopic fork from the outgoing model, promising improved stability and feedback. The rear suspension has also been revised with a new linkage system that Yamaha says improves rider comfort. The front brake has also been revised with a new radial-mount brake caliper gripping the 292mm disc.

With a claimed wet weight of 308.6 pounds, the 2014 R125 is 4.4 pounds heavier than the 2013 model, and that’s including a full 3-gallon fuel tank that is 0.6 gallons smaller than the previous tank.

Other updates include aluminum pegs and foot controls, digital LCD instruments, carbon-finish front fender and 17-inch alloy wheels with Y-shaped spokes.

[Source: Yamaha]

By Dennis Chung