2026 Yamaha YZ125 Specs & Review

A purebred 125cc two-stroke built for the motocross track, the 2026 Yamaha YZ125 returns with targeted updates to sharpen throttle response and drivability. Lightweight, agile, and rewarding to ride hard, it’s aimed at racers and two-stroke diehards who want crisp performance without the complexity of EFI.

This Yamaha YZ125 review focuses on real-world feel and the 2026 Yamaha YZ125 specs that matter when you’re chasing pace on a rough MX circuit.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 125 cc
• Engine type: 125cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke; reed-valve inducted
• Power: Not published by Yamaha
• Torque: Not published by Yamaha
• Wet weight (spec): 212 lb / 96 kg
• Seat height (spec): 38.6 in / 980 mm

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the YZ is a class-traditional 125cc liquid-cooled two-stroke with a reed-valve intake, measured at 54.0 mm x 54.5 mm (bore x stroke). Compression is listed at 8.2~10.1:1, a configuration that favors lively spin-up and the kind of snappy delivery that makes a 125 rewarding when you keep it on the pipe. For 2026, Yamaha refines that delivery with revised carburetor settings, updated CDI settings, and a redesigned air intake and intake boot. Together, these tweaks are aimed at cleaner throttle response and improved consistency across changing track conditions.

Fuel delivery remains a proven Hitachi Astemo Keihin PWK38S carburetor. Paired with a constant-mesh 6-speed and a multiplate wet clutch, the drivetrain encourages you to work the gears and carry corner speed—the classic 125 formula. Final drive is via chain, and cooling is handled by a high-capacity radiator with dark louvers.

Yamaha does not publish an official horsepower figure for this competition model, and torque numbers aren’t listed either. Still, the combination of low mass, crisp carburation, and updated ignition helps the YZ125 hit that sweet spot of responsiveness that rewards precise clutch and throttle work on jump faces and corner exits.

Handling, Comfort & Yamaha YZ125 Seat Height

Handling is where this bike shines. An aluminum semi-double cradle frame with a removable aluminum subframe underpins its predictable chassis feel. Geometry is set for agility with a 56.9 in / 1445 mm wheelbase, 26° rake, and 4.3 in / 109 mm trail. Ground clearance is a generous 14.4 in / 366 mm, supported by the tall motocross stance.

The Yamaha YZ125 seat height is 38.6 in / 980 mm. That’s typical for full-size MX bikes and gives plenty of room to work the bike under you when standing. Shorter riders may find it tall for paddock maneuvering, but the low Yamaha YZ125 weight—212 lb / 96 kg wet—helps keep tip-over anxiety in check and makes it easy to pick lines at low speed. Overall dimensions come in at 84.1 in × 32.5 in × 51.0 in (L×W×H), placing the rider in a neutral position that’s comfortable for aggressive riding.

Equipment & Features

• Suspension: KYB Speed-Sensitive 48 mm inverted fork with full adjustability and 11.8 in travel up front; KYB fully adjustable single shock with 12.4 in travel at the rear. This combo is well-regarded for balancing compliance with support when you’re pushing.
• Brakes: Hydraulic discs—270 mm front and 240 mm rear—deliver strong, predictable stopping power.
• Tires: Track-ready Bridgestone Battlecross X20s, sized 80/100-21 front (X20F) and 100/90-19 rear.
• Fuel capacity: 1.8 gal / 6.8 L.
• Frame & cooling: Aluminum semi-double cradle frame with removable subframe; high-capacity radiator with dark louvers.
• Styling & colors: Icon Blue or a 70th Anniversary Edition in Anniversary White (special livery).
• Warranty (US): 30 Day Limited Factory Warranty.
• Pricing: MSRP (US) base $7,199; 70th Anniversary $7,399 (Destination charge $650). Indicative EU pricing: Ireland €8,399; UK £7,800 (base), £7,900 (70th Anniversary) — dealer listings.

Who Is the 2026 Yamaha YZ125 For?

This is a closed-course competition motocross bike for riders who enjoy a responsive, rev-happy two-stroke and the skill-building that comes with it. It’s a great fit for younger riders stepping into full-size race bikes, experienced amateurs who want a lightweight machine to push hard for motos, or returning two-stroke fans who value simplicity and agility over brute force. With its tall stance and snappy power delivery, it’s more suited to track and practice days than casual trail cruising.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2026 Yamaha YZ125 stays true to what makes 125cc two-strokes timeless: low mass, razor-sharp handling, and a motor that rewards commitment. The new carburetor setting, CDI update, and revised intake aim to make that performance more accessible and consistent, without adding complexity. Suspension, brakes, and chassis geometry are well chosen for riders who want to carry speed and fine-tune setup through adjustability.

On the flip side, the tall seat height and small 1.8-gallon tank are pure MX priorities, not comfort or range features. And since Yamaha doesn’t publish horsepower, spec-sheet warriors won’t find bragging numbers. But judged by how it rides, the YZ125 remains a compelling pick in the 125 class—nimble, durable, and built to be thrashed.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 Yamaha YZ125 good for beginners?
  It can be, for riders committed to learning on a closed-course track. The light 212 lb / 96 kg Yamaha YZ125 weight and 6-speed gearbox encourage skill development, but the 38.6 in / 980 mm seat height and two-stroke power delivery may challenge shorter or brand-new riders.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 Yamaha YZ125?
  The Yamaha YZ125 seat height is 38.6 in / 980 mm (spec).

• How heavy is the 2026 Yamaha YZ125?
  Wet weight (spec) is 212 lb / 96 kg.

• What’s new for 2026 on the YZ125?
  Revised carburetor setting, updated CDI settings, and an updated air intake and intake boot design.