Yamaha YP 125 R Majesty [2014-2016] Review: A Scooter Built for Urban Mastery
Introduction
The Yamaha Majesty has long been a stalwart in the maxi-scooter segment, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and understated performance. The YP 125 R generation, produced between 2014 and 2016, represents a refined iteration of Yamaha’s vision for urban mobility. Designed to tackle city commutes with ease while retaining touring potential for weekend adventures, this scooter balances everyday usability with a touch of sophistication. After spending time with a well-maintained 2016 example, here’s why the Majesty remains a compelling choice for riders prioritizing efficiency and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics: Function Meets Form
The Majesty’s design leans into practicality without sacrificing style. Its 2,230 mm (87.8 inches) length and 762 mm (30 inches) width give it a substantial presence, yet the 148 kg (326 lb) curb weight keeps it nimble enough for tight traffic. The Candy Red color option adds a vibrant flair, though the overall aesthetic is purpose-driven, with clean lines and a stepped seat that accommodates riders of varying heights.
The 795 mm (31.3 inches) seat height may intimidate shorter riders initially, but the narrow midsection allows most to plant both feet firmly. Storage is a highlight: the 16-gallon underseat compartment swallows a full-face helmet effortlessly, and the 14-liter (3.7-gallon) fuel tank ensures fewer stops at the pump. The analog-digital dash is straightforward, prioritizing readability over flashiness—a theme that resonates throughout the design.
Engine & Performance: Smooth Operator
At the heart of the Majesty lies a 125cc liquid-cooled SOHC 4-valve single-cylinder engine (often mislabeled as DOHC in some specs—clarification is key!). Fuel injection ensures crisp throttle response, delivering 12 PS (8.8 kW) at 8,000 RPM. While these numbers won’t set records, the Majesty’s strength lies in its refinement. The engine purrs smoothly at idle, settling into a vibration-free hum once underway.
Acceleration from 0–50 km/h (0–31 mph) feels peppy, aided by the CVT transmission’s seamless power delivery. Top speed hovers around 105 km/h (65 mph), making it capable of brief highway stints, though wind blast becomes noticeable above 80 km/h (50 mph). Fuel efficiency is stellar: Yamaha claims 4.7 L/100 km (50 mpg), and real-world testing aligns closely, yielding roughly 300 km (186 miles) per tank. The liquid cooling system shines in stop-and-go traffic, maintaining consistent temps even on scorching days.
Ride Experience: Urban Agility, Touring Comfort
The Majesty’s chassis strikes a fine balance between stability and agility. The 1565 mm (61.6-inch) wheelbase inspires confidence on sweeping roads, while the 13-inch rear and 14-inch front wheels (wrapped in 150/70 and 120/80 tires, respectively) absorb bumps competently. Tire pressures are set to 2.0 bar (29 psi) front and 2.3 bar (33 psi) rear when carrying a passenger—a detail often overlooked but critical for optimal grip.
Suspension duties are handled by a telescopic fork up front and twin shocks at the rear. With 119 mm (4.7 inches) of front travel and 104 mm (4.1 inches) at the rear, the setup favors comfort over sportiness. Rough pavement is dispatched without jarring feedback, though aggressive cornering exposes its plush bias. Braking is adequate, with single 267 mm discs front and rear offering progressive bite. ABS isn’t present, so wet-weather riding demands caution.
Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
The maxi-scooter segment is fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Majesty fares against key rivals:
- Honda SH125i: Honda’s contender boasts a lighter frame and slightly peppier acceleration, but it lacks the Majesty’s underseat storage and liquid cooling. The SH125i’s fuel efficiency is comparable, but its air-cooled engine struggles in prolonged traffic.
- Suzuki Burgman 125: The Burgman counters with sharper styling and a more premium dash. However, its heavier weight (158 kg / 348 lb) dulls low-speed maneuverability, and maintenance costs run higher.
- Piaggio Beverly 125: Piaggio’s offering leans into Euro flair with larger 16-inch wheels for better stability. Yet, its seat height (810 mm / 31.9 inches) alienates shorter riders, and parts availability lags behind Yamaha’s network.
Verdict: The Majesty’s blend of cooling efficiency, storage, and ergonomics makes it the most versatile choice for daily riders, though it concedes sportiness to the Piaggio and tech to the Suzuki.
Maintenance: Keeping the Majesty Royal
Yamaha’s reliability reputation holds true here, but adherence to service intervals is crucial:
- Valve Adjustments: Intake valves require 0.08–0.12 mm (0.003–0.005 in), exhaust 0.22–0.26 mm (0.009–0.010 in). Check every 6,000 km (3,728 miles).
- Oil Changes: Use SAE 10W-40 (950 ml / 32 oz with filter). Synthetic blends enhance longevity.
- Cooling System: Flush every 2 years with ethylene glycol-based coolant (~800 ml / 27 oz).
- Spark Plugs: NGK CPR8EA-9 (standard) or CPR8EAIX-9 (iridium). Gap to 0.8–0.9 mm (0.031–0.035 in).
- Belt & Drivetrain: Inspect the V-belt every 12,000 km (7,456 miles). Premature wear often stems from aggressive starts.
Pro Tip: The Majesty’s underseat storage is perfect for stashing a tire repair kit or compact air pump—both available at MOTOPARTS.store. Pair them with a lithium-ion jump starter for peace of mind on long rides.
Conclusion: Timeless Practicality
The Yamaha YP 125 R Majesty [2014–2016] isn’t about thrills; it’s about mastering the urban grind with dignity. Its liquid-cooled engine, cavernous storage, and plush ride quality make it a standout in its class. While competitors may offer flashier tech or sportier dynamics, the Majesty’s unwavering reliability and low running costs cement its status as a workhorse. For riders seeking a no-nonsense companion that’s equally at home in traffic jams or countryside jaunts, this Yamaha remains a sovereign choice.
Upgrade Potential: From windscreens to premium shocks, explore MOTOPARTS.store’s catalog to tailor your Majesty to perfection.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 8.8 kW | 12.0 hp |
| Fuel system: | Fuel Injection |
| Displacement: | 125 ccm |
| Fuel control: | DOHC |
| Configuration: | Single |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Compression ratio: | 10.6:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 1 |
| Valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1565 mm (61.6 in) |
| Dry weight: | 148 |
| Wet weight: | 211.8 |
| Seat height: | 795 mm (31.3 in) |
| Overall width: | 762 mm (30.0 in) |
| Overall height: | 1379 mm (54.3 in) |
| Overall length: | 2230 mm (87.8 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 119 mm (4.7 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 7.4 L (1.95 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Belt type: | V-belt |
| Final drive: | belt |
| Transmission: | Automatic (CVT) |
| Maintenance | |
|---|---|
| Engine oil: | 10W-40 |
| Idle speed: | 1700 ± 100 rpm |
| Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CPR8EA-9 or NGK CPR8EAIX-9 |
| Spark plug gap: | 0.8–0.9 mm |
| Final drive oil: | 200 ml SAE 10W-30 |
| Coolant capacity: | 0.8 |
| Forks oil capacity: | 0.286 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 0.95 |
| Engine oil change interval: | Every 5000km or 2 years (whichever comes first) |
| Valve clearance (intake, cold): | 0.08–0.12 mm |
| Valve clearance (exhaust, cold): | 0.22–0.26 mm |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.0 bar (29 psi) solo, 2.3 bar (33 psi) with passenger |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.0 bar (29 psi) |
| Additional Features | |
|---|---|
| Starter: | Electric |
| Color options: | Candy red |
| Factory warranty: | 1 Year Limited |
| Storage capacity: | Lockable underseat storage (16 gallons) |
