Yamaha Motor has unveiled the all-new 2019 YZF-R125 with a cosmetic and mechanical overhaul. The motorcycle, similar to the YZF-R15 V3.0 and the upcoming YZF-R3, draws styling cues from the latest litre-class machine, the YZF-R1.
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At the front is a twin-pod full LED headlight with an air intake cavity in the centre. The fairing design is overhauled and the motorcycle features a more aggressive styling. Another noticeable feature on the fairing is the re-positioned blinkers. The motorcycle gets a new LCD display that features gear-position indicator, a shift timing light, and VVA status.
The 125cc member of the YZF family, similar to its siblings, features gills on the fuel tank, the capacity of which stands at 11 litres. Behind the fuel tank is the step-up, split saddle that is followed by the redesigned rear panel. The tail section, too, has received an upgrade on the 2019 model.
From the sides, the dual-tone exhaust attracts attention. The outgoing model also features a dual-tone exhaust although the colour combination has been revised on the 2019 iteration.
The motorcycle continues to use the Delta-box frame. Hardware list, similar to the outgoing model, is premium and the motorcycle continues to use an upside down telescopic suspension at the front and a mono-shock unit at the rear. The wet weight of the motorcycle stands at 142 kg.
There is no displacement bump on the YZF-R125 – something that we saw happen to the YZF-R15 V3.0. The 2019 model comes with an updated 125cc liquid-cooled 4-valve engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). The engine is tuned to deliver 15 hp of maximum power @ 9,000 rpm and 12.4 Nm of peak torque @ 8,000 rpm.
The VVA system is aimed to offer a meaty mid-range performance without compromising on the top-end power. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox and benefits from a slipper clutch.
The motorcycle will most likely debut to the public at the 2018 INTERMOT motorcycle show that is scheduled between October 03-07, 2018 in Cologne.
Apart from the YZF-R125, Yamaha is expected to unveil the all-new YZF-R3 – a motorcycle that was seen through leaked patent images in September 2018. Similar to the 2019 YZF-R125, the YZF-R3 will feature revised styling and updated hardware to compete against the likes of Kawasaki Ninja 400 and the KTM RC390.
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Will it arrive in India this time? It's highly unlikely as it will carry a premium price tag unjustifiable for a 125 cc bike.