Best-selling 125cc supersport in the UK
Decade-long market leader
Since 2014, the R125 has been the UK's best-selling 125cc supersport. Most popular CBT/A1-license sport bike. Yamaha estimates ~80% of UK R125 buyers go on to own another Yamaha within 5 years — making it Yamaha's biggest top-of-funnel for new riders.
17-year continuous production
Same fundamental platform since 2008
Launched 2008, R125 has had three major redesigns (2014, 2019, 2023) but the core 125cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, aluminium-framed sportbike concept hasn't changed. Compare: the Aprilia RS125 became the RS 125 4-stroke in 2010 (effectively a different bike), then died in 2017 (now reborn as RS 457).
VVA variable valve — first 125 with this tech
2014 onwards
Yamaha introduced VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) on the 2014 R125 — first 125cc bike with a 2-stage variable valve system. Switches from low-lift cam (smooth low-rpm) to high-lift cam (peak power) at ~7,500rpm. Helps the 125cc engine make full 15bhp without sacrificing low-end.
£5,501 OTR — A1-license top-end
Vs Honda CBR125R £4,549
R125 is the most expensive A1-license sport-bike on UK sale: £5,501 vs Honda CBR125R £4,549, KTM RC 125 £4,995, Suzuki GSX-R125 £4,799. The Yamaha justifies the premium with its R-series styling, KYB suspension, 5in TFT, and brand cachet.
Yamaha's biggest gateway product
30,000+ UK sales since 2008
Yamaha estimates the R125 has been UK-registered to over 30,000 unique owners since launch. Most then upgrade — to MT-07, R7, or MT-09. R125 is the conscious foot-on-the-ladder positioning for Yamaha's range. Honda has no equivalent (CBR125R is sold but not marketed the same way).
70th Anniversary livery for 2026
Inspired by 1999 R7 race livery
Yamaha celebrated its 70th anniversary in July 2025. R125, R3, R7, R9 all available in white and red 70th Anniversary livery for 2026 — based on the 1999 R7 OW02 race-bike that ran at Suzuka 8 Hours. Standard livery £5,501, Anniversary £5,650 (+£150).
