Source: MotorcyclistOnline.com
Mind the kickstand; the Yamaha R125 gets low on track day. (Yamaha/)While the European system of tiered new motorcycle licensing seems a bit of a drag to Americans, these bureaucratic quirks have benefits. Marketing departments come up with small, impossibly fun A1 license-compliant 125cc motorcycles like the Yamaha R125. Which, naturally, you may not buy for any price in the U.S.A.The European market has always demanded sportbike stances and ergonomics. And to be fair, the American market used to have traditional 125cc motorcycles, like the Honda Rebel 125, the Suzuki Marauder 125 and the Kawasaki Eliminator 125. But US buyers have relegated anything 125cc to the circus tent of Honda Groms and Monkeys, Kawasaki Z125′s and Honda Super Cubs.All great bikes, don’t get us wrong. But we’re left with two choices in the 125cc segment: Aging clapped out mini-choppers or hooligan clown bikes with 12 inch tires. So much for freedom of choice.Meanwhile in Europe, Yamaha has announced the 2023 Yamaha R125, with some new trick bits and redesigned bodywork and fairings. Created for riders under 18 years of age, or for those who’ve just begun their motorcycle journey, the Yamaha R125 joins the Suzuki GSX-S125, Kawasaki Ninja 125 and Honda CB125R as entry-level A1 motorcycles. All of which, again, you can’t have.Around since 2008, the 2023 R125 features the familiar (to Europeans) EURO5-compliant single cylinder 4-valve liquid-cooled 124.7cc motor. Among the new features you’ll never be able to enjoy are the 5″ full-color TFT. It features an optional Track Theme with timer, 25-lap memory and programmable rpm range and shift-light settings. You’ll also never experience the R125′s MyRide smartphone connectivity, traction control or optional genuine Yamaha quick shift system.As previously mentioned, you won’t discover the above-mentioned features tucked behind the redesigned R7-inspired fairings that accentuate the horizontal lines of the R125. And you won’t be streaking through American airspace or roads in the Icon Blue and Tech Black livery that dresses this fine micro-sportbike.Unless you live in Europe, the Yamaha R125 will not become available in February, 2023. Please do not contact your local Yamaha dealer for more info on price and availability.313 lbs wet is a bit much, but A1 compliant motorcycles are limited to a power to weight ratio of .28 hp/lb. (Yamaha/)The ample 5” TFT, which displays Street or Track theme info. Not viewable in the U.S.A. (Yamaha/)Track stands make it legit; the Yamaha R125 and European rider about to start up track day. (Yamaha/)Look on the bright side: You can’t own this bike but look at that comically large license plate holder. (Yamaha/)Redesigned front fascia and fairings are inspired by the sibling R7 model. (Yamaha/)
