Following the recent reveal of the new MT-03, Yamaha has this week unveiled the 2020 model year MT-125.
The latest iteration of what is the Japanese brand’s entry-level hyper naked MT bike gets completely new bodywork, including a smaller 10-litre fuel tank and a much shorter tail section. There’s also a new headlight assembly complete with rising dual slant-eye position lights.
Additional design changes include a new close-fitting one-piece seat while the footrests have been moved forwards and the handlebar position raised – a configuration that is claimed help centralise rider mass.
Running with a 1,325 mm wheelbase that’s 30 mm less than the previous model – as well as revised steering geometry – the new Deltabox frame and aluminium swingarm further improve the bike’s mass centralisation.
In terms of performance, the new MT-125 is powered by an all-new engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA); the latter incorporates two intake cams, each one with its own rocker arm. Wile the low cam operates up to 7,400 rpm, the high cam kicks in from 7,400 rpm through to the maximum power output at 10,000 rpm – 1,000 rpm higher than the previous design.
Along with its higher rpm ceiling, the new VVA engine also runs with revised gearing for improved acceleration – and with its range of upgraded internals, the new engine is claimed to be smoother and more economical too.
Yamaha says the MT-125’s new Assist and Slipper (A&S) clutch is also a “significant” upgrade for 2020 and offers a number of reported benefits to the rider, for example, a lighter feel at the lever reduces the level of physical input by the rider, making the bike more comfortable in stop-start urban riding situations.
The A&S clutch is also claimed to enable quicker and smoother downshifting, which in turn is supposed to help maintain chassis stability and give better control when changing down through the gears – particularly important when the road surface is wet or slippery.
Chassis details include 41 mm upside down front forks that deliver 130 mm of responsive suspension action and a wider 140-section rear tyre.
The new MT-125 is scheduled to hit Yamaha dealers from December 2019.
