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Enduro - Offroad · 1978

DT 125 MX

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MotoLibrary Score
38 /100 Commuter
Power/Weight
0.15 hp/kg
Top Speed
110 km/h
Torque
10 Nm
Engine
123 ccm

1978 Yamaha DT 125 MX Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 1978 Yamaha DT 125 MX enduro - offroad motorcycle, Yamaha utilizes a 123 cc (7.5 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, two-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 14 HP (10.2 kW) at 7,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 9.8 Nm (7.2 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 113.8 HP per liter and a 500 rpm working window between peak torque (6,500 rpm) and peak power (7,000 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the DT 125 MX measures 102 kg (225 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.14 HP/kg (7.29 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 845 mm (33.3 in) seat height — resulting in a taller command-style riding posture suited to medium-to-tall inseams. The 7-liter (1.8 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 110 km/h (68 mph).

Specific Output
113.8 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.14 HP/kg (7.29 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,500–7,000 rpm
Standover Height
845 mm (33.3 in)
Engine
Displacement 123.0 ccm (7.51 cubic inches)
Engine Type Single cylinder, two-stroke
Engine Details Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power 14.0 HP (10.2 kW)) @ 7000 RPM
Torque 9.8 Nm (1.0 kgf-m or 7.2 ft.lbs) @ 6500 RPM
Bore x Stroke 56.0 x 50.0 mm (2.2 x 2.0 inches)
Fuel System Carburettor. Mikuni VM 24 SH
Fuel Control Membrane
Lubrication Autolube
Cooling Air
Max RPM 8000
Transmission
Gearbox 6-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed 110.0 km/h (68.4 mph)
Chassis
Rake 30.0°
Front Suspension Hydraulic telescopic fork
Front Travel 180 mm (7.1 inches)
Rear Suspension Monocross
Rear Travel 145 mm (5.7 inches)
Ground Clearance 265 mm (10.4 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 2.75-21
Rear Tyre 3.00-18
Front Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Front Brake Ø 130 mm (5.1 inches)
Rear Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear Brake Ø 130 mm (5.1 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 95.0 kg (209.4 pounds)
Weight incl. 102.0 kg (224.9 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.1474 HP/kg
Seat Height 845 mm (33.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height 1120 mm (44.1 inches)
Overall Length 2085 mm (82.1 inches)
Overall Width 865 mm (34.1 inches)
Fuel Capacity 7.00 litres (1.85 US gallons)
Reserve Fuel 1.00 litres (0.26 US gallons)
Oil Capacity 1.00 litres (1.06 US quarts)
Other
Starter Kick
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Power
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Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
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Weight
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Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
🌲
Best For
Off-Road & Adventure
📏
Seat Height
84.5 cm / 33.3 in
⚖️
Handling
Very lightweight — easy to handle
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