Yamaha YP 125 R Majesty (2001-2009) Review: The Urban Sovereign That Stands the Test of Time
Introduction
The Yamaha YP 125 R Majesty, produced from 2001 to 2009, remains a benchmark in the 125cc scooter segment. Designed for riders seeking practicality without compromising on style, this scooter blends Yamaha’s engineering reliability with commuter-friendly features. Over its eight-year production run, the Majesty carved out a reputation as a dependable workhorse for city streets and weekend escapes. Let’s dive into what makes this scooter a compelling choice even today.
Design: Function Meets Understated Style
The Majesty’s design prioritizes clean lines and ergonomic efficiency. With an overall length of 2030 mm (79.9 inches) and a low seat height of 774 mm (30.5 inches), it strikes a balance between compactness and rider comfort. The step-through frame ensures easy mounting, while the 10.5-liter (2.77 US gallons) fuel tank integrated into the floorboard keeps the center of gravity low for stable handling.
The bodywork features a streamlined silhouette with just enough angular accents to avoid looking bland. Twin headlights and a broad handlebar give it a confident stance, and the analog-digital instrument cluster provides clear readouts for speed, fuel, and odometer. Storage-wise, the under-seat compartment accommodates a full-face helmet, complemented by a small glovebox for smaller items. While not revolutionary, the design has aged gracefully, avoiding the "dated" trap that afflicts many 2000s scooters.
Engine and Performance: Zippy Urban Companion
At the heart of the Majesty lies a liquid-cooled, 124cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine. Producing 12 PS (8.5 kW) at 8,750 RPM and 13 Nm (9.6 ft.lbs) of torque at 6,500 RPM, this engine thrives in stop-and-go traffic. The carbureted fuel system (Teikei BS28) delivers predictable throttle response, though it lacks the crispness of modern fuel-injected rivals.
Acceleration is brisk for its class, reaching 0-50 km/h (0-31 mph) in 5.5 seconds, with a top speed of around 90 km/h (56 mph). The automatic centrifugal clutch and belt-driven transmission ensure seamless power delivery, making it ideal for novice riders. On highways, the engine feels strained at sustained speeds above 80 km/h (50 mph), but that’s expected from a 125cc machine.
Key Takeaway: The Majesty’s engine isn’t about excitement—it’s about reliability. Owners praise its longevity, especially when maintained regularly. Liquid cooling helps during summer gridlock, preventing overheating even in 35°C (95°F) heat.
Handling and Comfort: Master of the Concrete Jungle
Yamaha nailed the commuter formula with the Majesty’s chassis. The 1480 mm (58.3-inch) wheelbase and 134 kg (295 lbs) dry weight make it nimble enough for tight alleys yet stable at higher speeds. The hydraulic telescopic fork (120 mm front travel) and twin rear shocks (105 mm travel) absorb potholes admirably, though rough roads can feel jarring due to the short suspension stroke.
The 12-inch wheels wrapped in 120/70 (front) and 130/70 (rear) tires provide a confident grip on wet roads. Braking is handled by single discs front and rear, offering adequate stopping power for urban speeds. ABS is absent, but the brakes are progressive and easy to modulate.
Rider ergonomics are a highlight. The wide, plush seat feels like a couch compared to the slab-like perches on rivals. The floorboards offer ample legroom for riders up to 183 cm (6 feet), and the upright riding position reduces fatigue during hour-long commutes.
Competition: How Does the Majesty Stack Up?
In the 125cc scooter arena, the Majesty faced stiff competition. Here’s how it compares:
- Honda SH125: The Honda’s fuel-injected engine and taller 16-inch wheels excel on bumpy roads, but its higher seat height (799 mm / 31.5 inches) and pricier maintenance make the Majesty more accessible for shorter riders and budget-conscious buyers.
- Suzuki Burgman 125: The Burgman offers more storage and a windscreen, but its heavier chassis (148 kg / 326 lbs) feels less agile in traffic.
- Piaggio Beverly 125: Piaggio’s design flair and larger wheels appeal to style-focused riders, but the Majesty’s reliability and lower service costs give it an edge for daily grinders.
Verdict: The Majesty isn’t the most thrilling or tech-packed, but its balance of comfort, reliability, and low running costs keeps it relevant in the used market.
Maintenance: Keeping Your Majesty in Prime Condition
Ownership costs are where the Majesty truly shines. Here’s what to prioritize:
- Oil Changes: Use SAE 10W-40 oil (1.3L without filter, 1.4L with filter). Yamaha recommends API SE-grade oil, changed every 3,000 km (1,864 miles).
- Valve Adjustments: Check valve clearance every 6,000 km (3,728 miles). Intake valves: 0.10–0.14 mm (0.004–0.006 in), exhaust: 0.16–0.20 mm (0.006–0.008 in).
- Drive Belt: Inspect the Kevlar-reinforced belt every 10,000 km (6,214 miles). Cracks or fraying? Replace it promptly to avoid sudden snaps.
- Cooling System: The liquid-cooled engine requires 1.1L of coolant. Flush it every 2 years or 20,000 km (12,427 miles).
- Tire Pressure: Maintain 1.9 bar (28 psi) front and 2.2–2.4 bar (32–35 psi) rear for optimal grip and longevity.
Pro Tip: Stick with NGK CR8E or iridium CR8EIX spark plugs (gap: 0.7 mm / 0.028 in) for smoother cold starts.
At MOTOPARTS.store, we stock OEM-spec filters, brake pads, and drive belts to keep your Majesty running like new. Consider upgrading to sintered brake pads for sharper stopping performance.
Conclusion: Timeless Value for the Practical Rider
The Yamaha YP 125 R Majesty isn’t about cutting-edge tech or adrenaline-pumping performance. It’s about getting you to work, the grocery store, or a weekend coffee run without fuss. The combination of a bulletproof engine, ergonomic design, and Yamaha’s build quality makes it a standout in the used scooter market. While newer rivals offer flashier features, the Majesty’s simplicity and low maintenance costs ensure it remains a smart choice for riders who value substance over hype.
Whether you’re a student on a budget or a seasoned commuter tired of parking headaches, the Majesty deserves a spot on your shortlist. And when it’s time for parts or upgrades, MOTOPARTS.store has your back—because even legends need a little love now and then.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Ignition: | TCI |
| Max power: | 10 kW | 13.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 13 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Carburettor (Teikei BS28) |
| Max power @: | 8750 rpm |
| Displacement: | 124 ccm |
| Max torque @: | 6500 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 69.0 x 66.8 mm (2.7 x 2.6 in) |
| Configuration: | Single |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Compression ratio: | 10.0:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 1 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1480 mm (58.3 in) |
| Dry weight: | 134 |
| Seat height: | 774 mm (30.5 in) |
| Overall width: | 745 mm (29.3 in) |
| Overall height: | 1285 mm (50.6 in) |
| Overall length: | 2030 mm (79.9 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 102 mm (4.0 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 10.5 L (2.77 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Final drive: | belt |
| Transmission: | Automatic centrifugal clutch |
| Maintenance | |
|---|---|
| Engine oil: | 10W-40 |
| Idle speed: | 1800 ± 100 RPM |
| Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR8E or NGK CR8EIX |
| Forks oil type: | SAE 20W |
| Spark plug gap: | 0.7 |
| Coolant capacity: | 1.1 |
| Forks oil capacity: | 0.26 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 1.4 |
| Final drive oil capacity: | 0.13 |
| Engine oil change interval: | Consult manual (no data provided) |
| Valve clearance (intake, cold): | 0.10–0.14 mm |
| Valve clearance (exhaust, cold): | 0.16–0.20 mm |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.2 bar (32 psi) solo, 2.4 bar (35 psi) with passenger |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 1.9 bar (28 psi) |
