Yamaha has been known for motorcycle manufacturing for decades, though some of its bikes stand out. For example, the Yamaha YZ125 has been built in some iteration since 1974, allowing it to have an established presence in the bike-riding world. Several of its features and aspects are notable in that they lend themselves well to first-time riders, such as the bike's lower weight, easier handling, lower power, weaker engine, and stronger and tighter suspension.

Read on to find more about the features, revisions, upgrades, optimizations, and modifications that make the Yamaha YZ125 a suitable motorcycle for beginning riders.

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Good Guidelines To Follow

What qualities in a bike make it optimized for first-time riders? Certain features need to stand out and present themselves in a welcoming, understanding, and non-intimidating light. Riders should know what they want before they buy a bike, and they should also do a significant amount of research. One of the first things to determine is what kind of riding will be done, such as riding on roads, racing through woods, and blazing trails. This choice will determine subsequent necessity of features.

Racing requires lightweight motorcycles, while trails generally require lower power but better suspension. Beginners usually lack experience, so having control of the bike is recommended. Further, a more inexpensive bike is also a good tip for beginners, as they may soon realize motorcycle riding isn't for them, and they won't have sunk a significant sum into an undesirable hobby.

Lower power is actually recommended regardless of type, and a bike with 125 cc two-stroke or a 250 cc four-stroke is more suited to beginners. Displacement is best kept under 300 cc. Lightweight is recommended because, as mentioned earlier, control is key, and riders retain more control over a bike with less weight. Feeling the force during acceleration shouldn't be enough to toss the rider off the motorcycle.

The YZ125 Is Practically Priced

One thing first-time riders can relax about regarding the Yamaha YZ125 is that used versions of it are reasonably priced, so budgets aren't likely to be broken. The catch is that there will likely be physical damage to the body, which is why the bike is sold for cheap.

However, the flip side is that a buyer is likely not to lose money, seeing how the damage was preexisting and will likely continue to be there if resold. After all, the Yamaha YZ125 has a full-size two-stroke with suspension and gearing. Long story short: it was made for racing, though it also offers enough maneuverability in open spaces to also be street legal.

Another bonus is the aftermarket for Yamaha YZ125 parts is well established, given how the bike has been manufactured since 1974. These parts, like the used bike itself, are also relatively inexpensive and easily located.

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The YZ125 Is Overtly Optimized

Some of the features of the Yamaha YZ125 were deliberately made to cater to beginning riders. As mentioned before, it has been manufactured in some form or another since 1974, but it retains its relevance by receiving repeated replacements and revisions.

The frame, as well as the engine, received its upgrade in 2005, while the suspension and body had to wait an additional decade for their upgrade. The Yamaha YZ125 uses a liquid-cooled 125 cc engine that can put out approximately 35 HP. The lower cc of the engine makes this bike ideal for beginners. The transmission is six-speed and it keeps gear ratios and engine output paired.

Weight, another feature taken into consideration, is only at 200 lbs. This makes the Yamaha YZ125 even more desirable for beginners. Speed is also kept low, which is another factor optimized for beginners. So, while the Yamaha YZ125 isn't one of the fastest bikes, it will certainly be one of the safest.

Everyone Loves The Yamaha YZ125

A lot of riders who currently own, or previously owned a Yamaha YZ125 say it was not only a good bike when they first rode, but it's still enjoyable for an occasional ride after they gather some experience.

They appreciate the lower weight because it grants them more control and superior handling. And while riders may note the bike's lower power, they also note that not only was it still sufficient, but also it seemed like a lot of power when they first began riding. The lower cc of the engine also has taught riders to consider terrain and disruptions on the ground. Once they upgrade to a larger, more powerful bike, they will be able to conquer those challenges much more easily.

Sources: dirtlegal.com, nadaguides.com, bikersinsider.com, vitalmx.com, motocrosshideout.com,