Yamaha RX 125: Not many names in Indian motorcycling resonate with nostalgia of the Yamaha RX series. The first-generation RX100 was a cult car in the 80s and 90s, and for a good reason – in a pre-100hp-per-litre era, the RX100 had cheeky performance, raspy sound and oodles of character.
Today, Yamaha seems ready to revive that spirit with a new motorcycle: the Yamaha RX 125.
Because it’s all-new, and the old two-stroke RX100 went away when emission norms kicked in – this one is retro-cool, and it may be rather capable too.
It’s got an up-to-date engine, sharper aero and a smattering of tech specs that are on par with what we’d expect today — while still maintaining that sense of simplicity and fun.
Yamaha RX 125 Traditional Design, Updated for Modern Use
The design concept of the RX 125 is a mix of retro charm with modern design aesthetics. The bike gets a small fuel tank, round LED headlamp and chrome treatment on the exhaust and mirrors also ensure that the retro essence remains intact.
A flat seat, socklike tail section and analog-style digital instrumentation establish a no-nonsense look that speaks to yesteryear charm.
What distinguishes it is the way that Yamaha have managed to mix retro hints with some neat modern touches.
Lightweight alloys, a monosock rear suspension and a sway back to the seat are details that give the bike just enough contemporary twist to appeal a to a younger market as well as a little funk factor with the matte finish paint options but with the vintage feel left entirely in tact.
Engine and Performance
The RX 125 is powered by a 124cc air-cooled, single-cylinder powerplant developed with Yamaha’s fuel-injection technology and BS6 and norms in mind. It makes approximately 11.2 bhp and 11 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed transmission.
It doesn’t have the kick of the original two-stroke RX100, but there’s enough grunt for city hauls and an occasional weekend run.
While it may be missing some raw speed, it compensates with smoothness, refinement, and good fuel economy.
The RX 125 is light and nimble on the road and can respond quickly when you twist the throttle; perfect for the urban environment and squeezing through traffic.
Expect real world figures of 55-60 kmpl, which makes it as convenient as it is good looking.
Ride and Handling
The RX 125 is minimal, yet smart with it. Equipped with a telescopic front fork and twin rear shock absorbers, it has a nice, centered feel that swallows up daily bumps and potholes.
Sitting position is not much sporty, just it’s comfortable ensuring travel friendliness for daily users, and short touring runners.
Disc and Drum brakes (CBS – Combi Brake System) ensure safety in braking.
A rear disc would have provided a little more bite, but the package is plenty adequate for the bike’s performance slot.
The RX 125’s 114-118 kg kerb weight is pretty flickable in traffic and with a minimum turning radius, it is good for narrow city roads.
Features and Technology
While Yamaha has refrained from over-stuffing the RX 125 with electronic aids, it does offer some useful features—such as LED lights, a semi-digital instrument cluster, an engine kill switch, and a side-stand engine cut-off.
Not that you will have Bluetooth connectivity or smartphone pairing, but that would not really fall in line with the RX spirit, of clean, rider-focused, uncomplicated.
Pros:
Light weight, easy to carry around
Old-fashioned look but modern features
Smooth and efficient engine
Great mileage for every day use
Small and portable suitable for urban riding
Cons:
Not as fast as original RX100
Lacks rear disc brake and ABS
No smartphone integration or other high-tech features
Not really for performance-oriented cyclists
Pillion won’t be very comfortable for long rides
Yamaha RX 125 Final Verdict
The Yamaha RX 125 is not an attempt to be a track machine or technology-laden cruiser. The RX-R is an unfussy, good-looking and practical motorcycle that brings that RX ba The RX-R is an unfussy, good-looking and practical motorcycle that brings that RX badge into a new eradge into a new era.
Nuff said there, two strokes don’t get much more characterful, and while we might be lacking in that, the RX 125 is very much a mix of the new age yet with the old proven 2T engine.
The RX 125 is ideal for city riders who seek the old-school feel, but with modern reliability.