NEW BIKES X-ADV & ZX-10R tested PLUS hot XSR125 revealed
New XSR125 brings old-school cool to the factory’s learner-friendly line-up
Yamaha have repeated the trick they played by creating retro spin-offs from the MT-07 and MT-09 and made this cute new XSR125. Like its bigger brothers, the single-cylinder 125 features a rounded tank, long flat seat and circular headlight.
The XSR125 uses the same fourvalve, liquid-cooled engine seen in the R125 and MT-125. Making 15bhp, it uses Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system to produce plenty of torque. The chassis is similar to the R125 and MT-125, with a steel ‘diamond’ frame and aluminium swingarm, plus upside-down forks. While the XSR’s wheelbase is 5mm shorter than the MT’s, the seat height (810mm) is identical. A single disc at each end deals with the braking, backed by dual-channel ABS. The XSR has lightweight 10-spoke alloy wheels and chunky block-pattern tyres. Two accessory kits will be available. The Race kit includes a headlight cover and number boards, while the Urban Kit features a flyscreen, aluminium engine side cover, radiator side cover and side cover. No prices have yet been set for these kits, but if specced at the time of ordering, they can be fitted by the dealer before collection.
The XSR comes in red or black or yellow and it’ll be £4450 (on the road) when it hits dealers in June. That’s £350 cheaper than the R125 and £200 less than the MT-125 and while no PCP deals have yet been set up for the XSR, expect monthly payments of about £55 after a £1000 deposit. With small-capacity machines already selling fast, this funky and functional new arrival should prove popular.
Yamaha have also released a teaser for what could be a new member of the R family. Although the YouTube video does not show a bike the soundtrack is distinctly parallel twin. MCN have speculated about the arrival of a sporty, fairing-clad MT-07 and we’re hoping that this video, titled ‘Track. Street. R/World.’ Relates to that. Watch this space!