Yamaha’s New Neo-Retro Bike Is So Cool, You’ll Want To Have It Here

We’re all well aware that Yamaha is a specialist in whipping up special bikes for special markets. And often times, these leave us Americans green with envy. One such bike is the one we’re about to talk about here. It oozes retro swagger while offering all the modern niceties you’d expect for the segment. Of course, we’re talking about Yamaha’s smallest XSR today that has broken cover in Japan.

The Yamaha XSR125 Boasts A Gorgeous Retro Design

The big XSRs have a lot of fans worldwide, so the 125 follows in the footsteps of its siblings. A round LED headlight sits at the front, flanked by a minimalistic fender and aluminum headlight stays. This is followed by a curvy fuel tank with chunky indents and metallic side covers right below.

It blends beautifully into the tuck-and-roll single-piece saddle that paves the way for a minimalistic tail. A small round LED sits on the petite fender while the chunky exhaust boosts the retro flavor with its punch-hole cover. Meanwhile, you can have the bike in three new colors for 2025.

Light Bluish Gray Metallic is the most basic option with a silver tank. Then comes Berry Dark Orange Metallic with contrast graphics. And finally, Black Metallic brings beautiful golden forks for added pizazz. If you want more oomph, Yamaha also sells a gorgeous bikini cowl to bring some cafe racer vibes. A likable feature-list ups the ante further, as you get:

• LED lights
• Digital instrument cluster
• Dual-channel ABS
• Slipper clutch

A 124cc, Single-Cylinder Engine Powers The Yamaha XSR125

Under the bedazzling design, the XSR125 hides a 124cc, single-cylinder engine. Although a tiny mill, Yamaha has equipped it with variable valve actuation, liquid cooling, and a six-speed transmission. That enables an output of 14 horsepower and 8.8 pound-feet—considerably higher than what 125cc motorcycles like the Kawasaki Z125 and CFMoto Papio produce in America.

The mill sits inside a deltabox chassis. It’s carved from steel and suspends on USD forks and a monoshock. The suspension joins hands with 17-inch cast alloy wheels, each of which has a single disc brake to slow you down. It should be more than enough, considering the curb weight is just 302 pounds.

The 2025 XSR125 Could Be Great For New Riders In America

Considering the package on offer, we can’t help but think the XSR125 would be a great addition to Yamaha’s US lineup. If priced right, it could be an excellent alternative to mini-motos like the Z125, Papio, and Grom while offering a full-sized experience. It even makes sense as a small second bike for office commuting. Sadly, though, this is limited to Asian and European markets as of now. It mainly caters to new riders with entry-level licenses.

2025 Yamaha XSR125 Specifications