Positioned in Yamaha's sport motorcycle lineup, the 2008 Yamaha YZF-R125 relies on a 124.7 cc (7.6 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 14.8 HP (10.8 kW) at 8,750 rpm while maximum torque reaches 12.2 Nm (9 lb-ft) at 8,750 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through chain final drive. With a specific output of 118.7 HP per liter, 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 YZF-R125 measures 126.5 kg (279 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.12 HP/kg (8.55 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 818 mm (32.2 in) seat height — resulting in a taller command-style riding posture suited to medium-to-tall inseams, combined with a 1,355 mm (53.3 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 13.8-liter (3.6 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Yamaha archive, this model family spans 12 indexed model years from 2008 to 2026, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
118.7 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.12 HP/kg (8.55 kg/HP)
Standover Height
818 mm (32.2 in)
Engine
Displacement124.7 ccm (7.61 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power14.8 HP (10.8 kW)) @ 8750 RPM
Torque12.2 Nm (1.2 kgf-m or 9.0 ft.lbs) @ 8750 RPM
Compression11.2:1
Bore x Stroke52.0 x 58.6 mm (2.0 x 2.3 inches)
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionTCI
LubricationWet sump
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet, multiple-disc coil spring
Chassis
Frame TypeSteel Deltabox
Front SuspensionTelescopic forks
Front Travel110 mm (4.3 inches)
Rear SuspensionSwingarm (monocross)
Rear Travel95 mm (3.7 inches)
Wheelbase1355 mm (53.3 inches)
Ground Clearance155 mm (6.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/80-M17
Rear Tyre130/70-M17
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø292 mm (11.5 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø230 mm (9.1 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight126.5 kg (278.9 pounds)
Power/Weight0.1166 HP/kg
Seat Height818 mm (32.2 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
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.
