Announced in the first half of May, the XSR125 is Yamaha’s all-new sport-heritage offering to the learner legal market.

Featuring an ensemble of premium features and details all wrapped up in a stylish and retro body, this is sure to be a desired model by both new and experienced riders in the UK!

So with that being said, join me as I run through 7 quick things to know about the all-new Yamaha XSR125!

I would be remiss if I didn’t go straight on to the styling of the XSR125.

As already mentioned, this 2021 model is the newest addition to Yamaha’s Sport-Heritage lineup and I think it captures that style really well!

Taking inspiration from the bigger bikes in the range, the XSR125 has a strong horizontal line throughout its design, offering great looks and a comfortable upright riding position. Loaded with some gorgeous retro features such as a rounded fuel tank, a long flat seat and circular lights, this one does an effective job of making more experienced riders feel somewhat nostalgic.

3 colourways are available in ‘Redline’, ‘Impact Yellow’ and ‘Tech Black’, all of which look great in my opinion but if I had to choose, I would probably stick with the ‘Redline’!

If the XSR125 isn’t quite retro enough for you as standard, however, there are a variety of accessories available to make it even more so including retro-style side tank pads, a retro headlight cover, a more racer-style headlight cowl, a retro fly screen and more!

Secondly, the engine.

The XSR125 being a brand-new bike is fully Euro5 compliant. Like its siblings the MT-125 and the YZF-R125, the engine is a 125cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke putting out the maximum power allowed in the A1 category, 11kw or a smidge under 15bhp – making it one of the best in class!

The engine also features Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system which optimises the power and torque generated by the engine, making performance stronger and acceleration more responsive.

It’s an ideal motor for first-time riders to get used to the roads while still having a good amount of power to play with, for a 125 at least! But this is also one to be considered by experienced riders looking for a smaller capacity commuter.

Unlike the MT and YZF in the 125cc category, the XSR125 opts for a simpler style with its LCD instrument panel.

With a satin black body and lovely chrome casing, the circular design helps to capture the overall stripped back and classic look that Yamaha is trying to achieve with this motorcycle. Using a modern negative LCD tech, the XSR125 is a great example of new meeting old, and it is working fantastically!

Though simple in design the instrument panel provides all the information you need in a way that makes it easy to absorb while riding. Features include gear indicator, fuel indicator, digital speedo and more. It’s a nice feature that fits in well without taking away from the overall heritage theme Yamaha is trying to achieve with the XSR125.

Next up, we are on to the braking, and I am happy to report that the XSR125 will feature dual-channel ABS, which is an absolutely lovely feature to find on this 125cc machine.

Along with this, you’ll find hydraulic discs front and rear, in a 267mm single disc at the front, and a 220mm disc at the rear.

It’s also worth mentioning that the wheels used are lightweight 10-spoke alloys with chunky block-pattern tyres that provide more traction and have been designed to provide more confident handling – ideal for urban riding!

Point 5 and we are looking at the lights.

Featuring a classic-style round headlight and taillight, they are in keeping with the XSR’s laid-back retro style. Blending in the modern technology though, they are LED’s throughout.

Yamaha state that the lights on the XSR are that good, they will turn night into day, so I get the sense you should be able to see where you’re going when riding at night… which is always nice.

The XSR boasts a strong and lightweight ‘Deltabox’ frame, which is essentially a diamond frame, the same that can be found in the MT and YZF-R125.

Thanks to its design, the ride offered is described as precise while handling is predictable and easy, all to allow for maximum confidence which is great news for any new riders.

You’ll find the bumps are soaked up by 37mm upside-down forks to the front, which is a really nice addition to this 125cc machine, and an aluminium swingarm to the rear.

Dimensions wise, the XSR has a wheelbase of 1330mm, 5 shorter than the MT, and an 810mm seat height which makes it an accessible option for most riders.

Onto my final point and it is the release date and price.

Now, being a Yamaha, these do come in at a more premium price point for the 125cc market. One of these stunning bikes will cost you £4,450 on the road in any of the 3 beautiful colour ways.

So, of the 3 bikes mentioned today, it is the cheapest of the lot, £350 cheaper than the YZF and £200 less than the MT.

The XSR125 is expected to hit dealers in June and if I’m honest I think they will fly off the shelves, so if you like what you’ve heard, make sure you get yourself to your local Yamaha dealer as soon as they’re in stock!

Engine	124cc, 14.7 hp, liquid-cooled
Fuel tank	11L
Brakes	Front and rear disc
Seat height	815mm
Weight	140kg (wet)
Price	£4,450

We here at BikeMatters have reviewed the Yamaha XSR125, so feel free to head over to our full road-test review!

If you are looking to purchase one of these beauties, don't forget to get it insured - if you're looking for motorcycle insurance, make sure to get a quote direct with Lexham!