“
it’s a seriously
rideable small
capacity machine
The motor is fed by a 38mm Mikuni TMX
carb, slurping pre-mixed fuel (petroil
lubrication) and dispenses power via sixspeed
gearbox and wet clutch. Not only is
it quick with my over-sized frame on it, it
has serious grunt for a 125. There’s enough
torque to happily chug up a decent hill and
it’ll then get into the power without really
needing to use the clutch – it’s a seriously
rideable small capacity machine. Of course,
a quick dip/slip of the clutch at any time
and you’ll get instant firepower. For steep
and tricky terrain the clutch has nice action
for holding the engine in the power smoothly
while slipping it. It really is excellent.
I found the 125X to be at its best on flowing
2nd and 3rd gear trails where its light weight
and easy handling would make it a serious
force to be reckoned with. Add the fact that
it has phenomenal brakes and excellent
suspension and it’s a potent the package.
A large 270mm floating disc rotor and Nissin
twin piston caliper work together beautifully
to stop the Yamaha very easily with great
feel at the lever, while the rear 245mm disc
brake has terrific strength and feel – I was
really quite impressed.
KYB suspension at both ends is top drawer
componentry and highly adjustable with a
little under 300mm wheel travel up front
and a little over that at the rear. Suspension
action is also top notch in compliance, rider
feedback and progression, although for
larger or fast riders it could be a little soft
on bigger hits.
KIWI RIDER 53