Yamaha YZF-R125 Generations Guide (2008–Present)

⚠️ Safety Warning: When purchasing or riding any generation of the YZF-R125, ensure you are familiar with its specific braking systems. Early models lack ABS, while mid-to-late models may have it as an option or standard. Always perform a full safety inspection on used bikes, focusing on brake pad wear and tire condition before your first ride.

The YZF-R125 has evolved through four distinct generations, each bringing significant mechanical and aesthetic upgrades to remain the benchmark for learner-legal sports bikes.

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Generation 1 (2008–2013)

• The Original: Launched as a 4-stroke replacement for the TZR125.

• Key Specs: 14.8bhp SOHC engine, 13.8L fuel tank (the largest of any generation), and conventional 33mm front forks.

• Braking: Features a two-piston sliding caliper. Note: This generation does not have ABS.

• Style: Iconic "narrow" look with twin headlights and a more analog feel.

Generation 2 (2014–2018)

• The Facelift: Styling was updated to mimic the R6 of the era, featuring a central air intake between the lights.

• Upgrades: Gained 41mm Upside-Down (USD) forks and a radial four-piston front brake caliper for much sharper handling.

• Tech: Introduction of a digital LCD dashboard and an fuel-injection system tweak for better efficiency. ABS became an option/standard during this run.

Generation 3 (2019–2022)

• The VVA Era: A major mechanical overhaul introduced Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), which improves low-end torque without losing top-end power.

• Chassis: Received a wider 140-section rear tire, a new aluminum swingarm, and a revised Deltabox frame.

• Ergonomics: A slimmer 11L fuel tank and a refined "R1-style" cockpit.

Generation 4 (2023–Present)

• The Tech Jump: Borrowing heavily from the R7 and R1, this model features a bi-functional LED headlight and R-series "M-shaped" nose.

• New Features: 5-inch full-color TFT dashboard with smartphone connectivity and Traction Control as standard.

• Refinement: Sharper geometry and pre-wiring for a Quickshifter system.

• Quick Links & Resources

• Used Market: Browse All Generations on eBay UK

• Manuals & Guides: Yamaha R125 Workshop Manuals on eBay UK

Yamaha YZF R125 Gen 1 2008 - 13

The first gen of these bikes was released in 2008 and was a replacement 125 motorcycle for the TZR 125 but was released using a 4 stroke 125 engine. It quickly became popular due to it fantastic looks and extreme reliability and excellent fuel economy.

Yamaha YBR 125 gen 2 2014-2018

This had a facelift , different forks ( inverted )  LCD display dashboards and abs was fitted from 2015 onwards 

Yamaha YZF R125 gen 3 2019-on 

Has some changes to frame and its body work, and completely new swing arm and a new engine with VVA Variable Valve Actuation

2008        Yamaha YZF-R125 Code: 5D71

2009        Yamaha YZF-R125 Code: 5D72, 5D75

2010        Yamaha YZF-R125 Code: 5D74

2011        Yamaha YZF-R125 Code: 5D77

2012        Yamaha YZF-R125Code: 5D7B, 5D79

2013        Yamaha YZF-R125Code: 5D7F, 5D7J

2014        Yamaha YZF-R125 Code: 5D78, 5D7K

2015        Yamaha YZF-R125 + ABS Code: 5D7R, 5D7P, 5D7M + 5D7N, 5D7E

2016        Yamaha YZF-R125 + ABS Code: 5D7W, 5D7S + 5D7X, 5D7T

2017        Yamaha YZF-R125 ABS Code: BR61

2018        Yamaha YZF-R125 ABS Code: BR62

2019        Yamaha YZF-R125 ABS Code: B5G1

2020        YZF-R125 ABS

2021 Yamaha YZF-R125 ABS

2022 Yamaha YZF-R125 ABS + World GP 60th Anniversary Edition