2023 Yamaha YZF-R125

Yamaha’s been releasing a slew of 2023 model updates in the run-up to the EICMA Milan show. There’s a brand new fourth-generation YZF-R125 learner-legal sportsbike, an overhaul for the Ténéré 700 and Rally Raid adventure machinery, plus model refreshes and equipment upgrades across the MT125 and MT-07 range of roadsters.

Starting off with the new YZF-R125, this is the first big update to the eighth-litre sportster since the third generation machine was launched in 2019. There’s an all-new bodywork layout, with a redesigned fairing that echoes the style of the most recent R1 and R7 sportsbikes. New LED position lights and headlight give a more aggressive look to the front end, and there’s also a proper full colour five-inch LCD dashboard, complete with smartphone link, like on the bigger bikes.

2023 Yamaha YZF-R125

On the chassis front, there’s tweaked steering geometry and a new R1-style top yoke, while the suspension and brakes are mostly as you were.

2023 Yamaha YZF-R1252023 Yamaha YZF-R125

The engine stays the same too – the high-tech variable-valve unit one of the most satisfying 125cc machines to ride, thanks to the broad spread of torque. Now, it comes pre-wired for a quickshifter – and also now boasts a full traction control setup as well as the standard dual-channel ABS setup. Traction control is perhaps a little bit moot on such a low-powered machine: though learners arguably need all the safety nets they can get…

The acclaimed Ténéré 700 adventure bike family gets some sweet equipment updates too: a new colour LCD dashboard, with smartphone connectivity, as well as a new USB charging socket, and pre-wiring for an official accessory quickshifter.

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2023 Yamaha Ténéré 700 2023 Yamaha Ténéré 700

Finally, the Yamaha MT-125 and MT-07 also get the full colour LCD dashboard upgrade, complete with the Yamaha MyRide smartphone connection system. The MT-07 is also now supplied with plug-and-play wiring for the official Yamaha quickshifter, while the MT-125 also comes with the same traction control system as on the new YZF-R125.

2023 yamaha updates2023 Yamaha MT-07

Prices and availability for all the new 2023 Yamaha Ténéré 700s, MT-125 and MT-07 and YZF-R125 are to be confirmed: expect an announcement around the NEC bike show at the end of November.

YZF-R125 highlights

New dynamic R-Series body design

New bi-functional compact LED headlight

New R7-inspired LED position lights

New R1-inspired 5-inch dual-theme TFT instruments

New programmable shift light and rpm range

New smartphone connectivity via CCU using Bluetooth

New traction control system

New R1-inspired upper triple clamp and handlebar switches

New pre-wiring for quickshifter

Sporty, comfortable and commanding riding position

Torque rich 125cc EURO5 4-stroke engine with VVA (Variable Valve Actuation)

A&S clutch

KYB 41mm upside down front forks

292mm floating front disc / 220mm rear disc

Lightweight cast aluminium swingarm

11-litre fuel tank

2-channel ABS

Radial mount front brake caliper

Deltabox frame with optimised geometry

2-piece rider/passenger seat, 825mm rider seat height

Michelin Pilot Street tyres: 100/80-17 front / 140/70-17 rear

New generation R-Series colours and graphics