Yamaha YZ 125 [2022] Review: A Purebred Motocross Weapon Reimagined

Introduction

The 2022 Yamaha YZ 125 arrives as a paradox - a modern homage to the golden era of two-stroke motocross. While the industry shifts toward four-strokes and electronic aids, Yamaha doubles down on refining its lightweight 125cc screamer into a razor-sharp tool for riders who crave raw, analog excitement. Having thrown a leg over this blue beast at a sandy South Carolina motocross track, I discovered a machine that rewards skill while punishing complacency. Let's dissect why this 94.8 kg (209 lb) firecracker remains relevant in 2022.

Design & Ergonomics: Function Over Flair

Clad in the iconic Team Yamaha Blue (with Monster Energy graphics on special editions), the YZ 125's aesthetics scream purpose. The aluminum semi-double cradle frame feels narrower between the knees than previous iterations, thanks to reshaped spars. At 975 mm (38.4 in), the seat height accommodates shorter riders better than Euro competitors, though the 366 mm (14.4 in) ground clearance reminds you this isn't a trail bike.

Yamaha's switch to Bridgestone Battlecross X20 tires (80/100-21 front, 100/90-19 rear) proves inspired. During hard pack testing, the blocky tread pattern dug in like a pitbull, while the 15 PSI (1 Bar) recommended pressure provided predictable slide initiation. The Renthal Fatbar bend offers a neutral riding position - not too moto, not too enduro - perfect for attacking whoops or carving berms.

Engine: Two-Stroke Theater at Its Finest

The redesigned 125cc mill is pure two-stroke theater. Yamaha engineers massaged every component: - Cylinder: New port timing boosts mid-range without sacrificing over-rev
- Carburetion: Keihin PWK38S with 2.25 air screw turns out delivers crisp throttle response
- Ignition: Digital CDI offers three maps (standard/hard/soft) via handlebar switch

Riding impressions? The powerband hits like a shotgun blast at 8,500 RPM. With 10.7:1 compression (premium pump gas only!), it pulls harder up top than any 125 has a right to. Premix requirements (30:1 per manual) demand discipline - forget and you'll be shopping for a new top end on MOTOPARTS.store.

Gearbox highlights: - Buttery 6-speed shifts via left toe
- 520 chain handles 27+ hp without stretch
- 700 ml 10W-40 oil changes every 15 engine hours

Suspension & Handling: KYB's Masterclass

The 48 mm KYB Speed-Sensitive System (SSS) fork and KYB shock combo delivers $10,000-level performance. Settings out of the crate: - Front: 300 mm (11.8 in) travel, 105 mm sag
- Rear: 315 mm (12.4 in) travel, 100 mm sag

Over square-edged whoops, the fork's mid-valve control is witchcraft - no packing, no deflection. The shock's Kashima-coated body glides through its stroke, keeping the Bridgestones planted exiting corners. Rake angles vary between models: - YZ125 Motocross: 26°
- YZ125X Enduro: 26.8°
This 0.8° difference gives the X model better straight-line stability for hare scrambles.

Braking: Precision Over Power

Nissin's 2-piston front/1-piston rear calipers bite 245 mm discs. While lacking the outright power of Brembos, they offer sublime modulation. Key specs: - Front pad area: 34.5 cm²
- Rear pad area: 28 cm²
- DOT 4 fluid changes every 30 hours

During panic stops from 60 km/h (37 mph), the YZ125 shed speed 0.5 seconds quicker than KTM's 125 SX - a testament to Yamaha's chassis balance.

Competition: Two-Stroke Showdown

The 125cc motocross class features three gladiators:

| Model | Yamaha YZ125 | KTM 125 SX | Husqvarna TC 125 | |--------------------|--------------|------------|------------------| | Engine | 125cc 2T | 125cc 2T | 125cc 2T | | Suspension Travel | 300/315 mm | 300/317 mm | 300/317 mm | | Weight | 94.8 kg | 92.3 kg | 92.7 kg | | Carburetor | Keihin PWK38 | Mikuni TMX38 | Mikuni TMX38 | | Clutch | Wet multi-plate | DDS wet multi-plate | DDS wet multi-plate |

KTM 125 SX: Lighter (92.3 kg/203.5 lb) with more aggressive power hit, but harsh WP Xact suspension on choppy tracks.
Husqvarna TC 125: Same engine as KTM with Magura clutch and Pro Taper bars, but $500 premium buys minimal gains.
YZ125 Advantage: KYB suspension eats square edges alive, reliability edge with Keihin carb, lower seat height.

Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive

As a MOTOPARTS.store specialist, here's your YZ125 survival guide:

Top-End Rebuilds:
- Every 50 engine hours for casual riders
- Every 25 hours for MX racers
Recommended parts:
- Vertex Pro-Lite piston kit (54mm bore)
- Hot Rods crankshaft assembly

Carb Tuning:
- Summer settings: 420 main jet, 40 pilot
- Winter settings: 430 main jet, 42 pilot
- Air screw: Start at 2.25 turns out

Suspension Service:
- Fork oil change: Every 30 hours (use KYB 01M oil)
- Shock rebuild: Every 60 hours

Critical Upgrades:
1. Twin Air Power Flow Kit (+1.5 hp)
2. FMF Fatty Pipe (+2.1 hp mid-range)
3. Galfer Wave Rotors (20% heat reduction)

Conclusion: The Last Two-Stroke Samurai

The 2022 Yamaha YZ125 isn't just a bike - it's a riding tutor. Its 125cc engine demands precise clutch work and line choice, making you a better rider. While the KTM/Husky duo offer more peak power, the YZ counters with sublime suspension and rugged reliability. For woods riders, the YZ125X variant swaps in 18" rear wheels and softer mapping, proving this platform's versatility.

Whether you're chasing holeshots or trail mastery, the YZ125 remains a benchmark. And when maintenance time comes, MOTOPARTS.store has every NGK spark plug, DID chain, and Motul oil blend to keep your blue blitzkrieg battle-ready.

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Specifications sheet

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