Yamaha MT-125 [2020-2022] Review: The Dark Side of the 125cc Segment

Introduction

When Yamaha unleashed its MT ("Master of Torque") series on the world, few expected the philosophy to translate so effectively into the 125cc category. The MT-125 (2020-2022) stands as a rebellious answer to cookie-cutter learner bikes - a machine that treats new riders to premium engineering while delivering the snarling aesthetics of its larger MT siblings. After spending a week threading through city traffic and carving backroads, it's clear this isn't just a motorcycle for passing your A1 license - it's a gateway drug to Yamaha's signature "Dark Side" riding ethos.

Design & Ergonomics

The MT-125's design punches far above its displacement class. That signature "mass-forward" MT stance is achieved through a compact steel Deltabox frame and an aluminum swingarm that looks borrowed from the MT-07 parts bin. The angular tank shrouds flow into a sharply stepped seat (810mm/31.9" height) that's surprisingly accommodating for both 5'5" and 6'0" test riders.

Yamaha's LED lighting game is particularly strong here. The central projector headlight flanked by aggressive LED position lamps gives the front end a cybernetic scowl that turns heads at stoplights. Our test bike's "Cyan Storm" color scheme - a trippy blue-green fade over black - looked contemporary without trying too hard.

Standout details:
- Tank knee indents that actually work for adult-sized legs
- Flush-mounted LED turn signals (a class above typical budget bike stalks)
- Exhaust header that snakes dramatically under the engine

The 140kg (308.6 lbs) wet weight disappears once moving, making low-speed maneuvers less intimidating for new riders. That said, the wide handlebars demand some shoulder commitment when filtering through tight traffic.

Engine & Performance

Don't let the 124.7cc single-cylinder badge fool you - this is one of the most technologically advanced 125cc powerplants ever made. The liquid-cooled SOHC 4-valve mill features Yamaha's Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) - a rarity in this segment. Below 7,400 RPM, a low-lift cam profile prioritizes torque for city grunt. Cross that threshold, and a high-lift cam kicks in, unleashing the full 14.8 HP (11 kW) at 10,000 RPM.

The powerband feels genuinely playful. From 0-60 km/h (0-37 mph), it keeps pace with 300cc commuters thanks to that 11.5 Nm torque peak at 8,000 RPM. The real magic happens in the 7,500-10,000 RPM zone where the exhaust note hardens into a metallic snarl. Keep it pinned, and you'll see 110 km/h (68 mph) on the LCD dash - respectable for A1 restrictions.

Fuel injection is flawlessly sorted. Cold starts required zero choke fiddling, and low-RPM fueling felt cleaner than carbureted rivals like the KTM 125 Duke. Yamaha claims 2.1L/100km (112 mpg), but real-world riding netted 2.5L/100km (94 mpg) when exploiting the VVA's upper range.

The 6-speed gearbox (with assist/slipper clutch) is a revelation. Shifts click through with rifle-bolt precision, and the clutch pull is light enough for stop-and-go marathons. We’d spec the optional quickshifter if Yamaha offered it - the engine loves to be kept boiling above 8k RPM.

Handling & Dynamics

Yamaha nailed the MT-125's geometry. The 41mm USD forks (130mm/5.1" travel) and linked monoshock (114mm/4.5" rear) strike a perfect balance between sporty responsiveness and real-world compliance. Over broken urban tarmac, the chassis remained composed, only getting skittish over expansion joints at triple-digit km/h speeds.

The real surprise is cornering clearance. Despite 140mm (5.5") ground clearance, we dragged pegs later than expected thanks to the 140/70-17 rear Michelin Pilot Street. The Y-spoke wheels (17" front/rear) contribute to quick steering - the MT flicks through S-bends with the urgency of a supersport.

Braking performance shames larger bikes. The 292mm front disc (with 2-piston caliper) offers strong initial bite, while the 230mm rear stays progressive. ABS intervention is subtle - it only triggered during deliberate panic stops on wet manhole covers.

Technology & Features

For a learner bike, the MT-125's tech suite borders on decadent:
- Full LCD Dash: Gear position indicator, fuel economy readouts, and a bar-graph tach that pulses with VVA activation
- LED Everything: Headlight, tail light, and (optional) turn signals
- Smart Key System (2022 model): Keyless ignition - a segment first
- Smartphone Connectivity: Via optional Yamaha Motorcycle Connect dongle

The lack of adjustable suspension is expected at this price point, but Yamaha offers a comfort seat and heated grips as accessories - both worthwhile for daily commuters. The Akrapovič slip-on (a €300-400 option) not only drops 1.5kg but amplifies that addictive VVA cross-over howl.

Competition

The MT-125 operates in a fierce 125cc naked arena. Here's how it stacks up:

KTM 125 Duke
- Pros: More aggressive styling, adjustable suspension, slightly quicker steering
- Cons: Harsher ride quality, buzzy engine at high RPM, no VVT equivalent
- MT Edge: Superior midrange torque, better build quality on switchgear

Honda CB125R
- Pros: Neo-retro appeal, Showa suspension, slightly lower seat (799mm)
- Cons: 13.1 HP output feels gutless compared to Yamaha's 14.8 HP
- MT Edge: Brighter LED lighting, more engaging engine character

Suzuki GSX-S125
- Pros: Cheaper to insure, 15L fuel tank (vs Yamaha's 10-11L)
- Cons: Dated LCD dash, no slipper clutch, heavier at 146kg
- MT Edge: Modern electronics package, lighter feel at lean

The MT-125 doesn't dominate in any single category but offers the most complete package for riders prioritizing tech, design, and real-world usability.

Maintenance

Ownership costs are where the MT-125 truly shines. Key points:

Valve Adjustments
- Intake: 0.10-0.14mm (0.004-0.006")
- Exhaust: 0.21-0.25mm (0.008-0.010")
- Interval: Every 6,000 km (3,730 miles) - half as frequent as some rivals

Fluids
- Engine Oil: 950ml SAE 10W-40 (API SG) with filter changes
- Coolant: 650ml - Use ethylene glycol-based for -35°C protection
- Brake Fluid: DOT 4 - Replace every 2 years regardless of mileage

Chain Care
- 130-link chain: Clean every 500 km (310 miles) with non-corrosive solvents
- Sprockets: 14T front/42T rear - Swap both when chain stretch exceeds 2%

Tire Pressures
- Front: 2.0 bar (29 psi)
- Rear: 2.2 bar (32 psi)
- Pro Tip: Drop to 1.8/2.0 bar for aggressive canyon riding

Common Upgrades
1. Exhaust: Akrapovič slip-on (+2 HP peak, saves 1.5kg)
2. Suspension: Progressive fork springs for heavier riders
3. Brakes: MOTOPARTS.store sintered pads for track days
4. Lighting: LED turn signals (uses OEM connectors)

Yamaha's reliability reputation holds here. We’ve seen examples with 30,000+ km needing only routine consumables. Stick to 10W-40 oil (we recommend MOTOPARTS.store's synthetic blend) and avoid ethanol-heavy fuels to prevent injector clogs.

Conclusion

The Yamaha MT-125 (2020-2022) redefines what a 125cc motorcycle can be. It’s unapologetically styled, packed with tech that trickled down from Yamaha's R-series, and delivers a riding experience that flatters newbies while still engaging seasoned pilots. While not the cheapest in its class, the MT justifies its premium through durability and sheer grin factor.

For owners looking to personalize, the aftermarket is rich with options - from performance exhausts to ergonomic tweaks. And when maintenance time comes, remember: MOTOPARTS.store stocks every gasket, filter, and upgrade part to keep your MT-125 lurking in the dark side of the city.

Ride safe, wrench smart, and keep twisting that VVA zone.

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Specifications sheet

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