Yamaha has added yet more arsenal to the once decaying 250cc and under roadbike segment with the release of the sportsbike-inspired YZF-R125.
Yamaha claims the same engineers who created the YZF-R1 and YZF-R6 are behind the YZF-R125, which has a fuel-injected, four-valve, SOHC 125cc four-stroke engine (bore and stroke are 52mm and 58.6mm) that produces maximum power at a fairly lofty 9000rpm.
It has a six-speed gearbox, signature Yamaha Deltabox frame, aluminium swingarm, light five-spoke wheels, sharp bodywork, 1355mm wheelbase and 292m front disc, clearly aimed at those looking for some sporting DNA in the tiddler class.
There is a six-speed gearbox, and an R6-style mid-ship muffler
Yamaha claims it offers the strongest overall performance in the 125cc four-stroke class -- although it's not what you'd call a saturated segment.
Honda has its CBR125RW, while the venerable Cagiva Mito is two-stroke.
The CBR125RW is the fifth biggest selling bike in the 250c roadbike category so far this year, behind the Kawasaki Ninja, Honda CT110, Honda CBF250 and Hyosung GT250R.
Accessories for the $6999 YZF-R125 include a double bubble screen, seat cover, carbon yoke protector and tank pad.