Chronicling Adventures On Two Stroke

Yamaha R125 Vs Ktm Duke 125

Quick summary

  • The R125 has a slightly larger front disc brake than the Duke 125, but the Duke 125 has a rear disc brake with a larger diameter.
  • The R125 has a more sporty and aggressive look, while the Duke 125 has a more naked and utilitarian look.
  • The R125 is a better choice for riders who want a sporty and aggressive bike, while the Duke 125 is a better choice for riders who want a more naked and utilitarian bike.

The Yamaha R125 and KTM Duke 125 are two of the most popular 125cc motorcycles on the market today. Both bikes offer excellent performance, handling, and features, making them ideal for both new and experienced riders. But which bike is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll take a closer look at the Yamaha R125 and KTM Duke 125 to help you make an informed decision.

Engine and Performance

The Yamaha R125 is powered by a 125cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke engine that produces 15 horsepower and 11.5 ft-lbs of torque. The KTM Duke 125 is also powered by a 125cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke engine, but it produces slightly more power at 15.2 horsepower and 11.5 ft-lbs of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed gearbox.

In terms of performance, the KTM Duke 125 has a slight edge over the Yamaha R125. The Duke 125 is quicker off the line and has a higher top speed. However, the R125 is more fuel-efficient, returning up to 70 mpg compared to the Duke 125’s 60 mpg.

Handling and Suspension

The Yamaha R125 and KTM Duke 125 both offer excellent handling and suspension. The R125 has a lightweight aluminum frame and a 37mm inverted front fork. The Duke 125 has a steel trellis frame and a 43mm inverted front fork. Both bikes have a single rear shock absorber.

The R125 is slightly more agile than the Duke 125, but the Duke 125 has a more comfortable ride. The Duke 125’s suspension is better at soaking up bumps and rough roads.

Brakes and Safety Features

The Yamaha R125 and KTM Duke 125 both have excellent brakes and safety features. Both bikes have a single front disc brake and a single rear disc brake. The R125 has a slightly larger front disc brake than the Duke 125, but the Duke 125 has a rear disc brake with a larger diameter.

Both bikes also come standard with ABS (anti-lock brakes), which helps to prevent the wheels from locking up under hard braking. The Duke 125 also has a slipper clutch, which helps to prevent the rear wheel from locking up during downshifts.

Styling and Features

The Yamaha R125 and KTM Duke 125 have very different styling. The R125 has a more sporty and aggressive look, while the Duke 125 has a more naked and utilitarian look.

The R125 comes standard with a full fairing, which provides better wind protection. The Duke 125 has a more exposed design, which makes it lighter and more nimble.

Both bikes have a digital instrument cluster that displays a variety of information, including speed, RPM, fuel level, and gear position. The R125’s instrument cluster is more comprehensive and includes a tachometer and a shift indicator.

Price and Value

The Yamaha R125 and KTM Duke 125 are priced very similarly. The R125 starts at $4,499, while the Duke 125 starts at $4,599.

Both bikes offer excellent value for the money. They are both well-built and reliable, and they offer a lot of features for the price.

Which Bike is Right for You?

The Yamaha R125 and KTM Duke 125 are both excellent 125cc motorcycles. The R125 is a better choice for riders who want a sporty and aggressive bike, while the Duke 125 is a better choice for riders who want a more naked and utilitarian bike.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can get a feel for each bike and decide which one you like best.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re not sure whether the Yamaha R125 or KTM Duke 125 is the right bike for you, there are a few other 125cc motorcycles that you might want to consider. These include:

  • Honda CBR125R
  • Kawasaki Ninja 125
  • Suzuki GSX-R125

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the top speed of the Yamaha R125?

The top speed of the Yamaha R125 is approximately 75 mph.

What is the fuel economy of the KTM Duke 125?

The fuel economy of the KTM Duke 125 is approximately 60 mpg.

Which bike is more reliable, the Yamaha R125 or KTM Duke 125?

Both the Yamaha R125 and KTM Duke 125 are very reliable motorcycles. However, the R125 has a slightly better reputation for reliability.

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About the Author
Matthew is an avid motorbike enthusiast from South London. He started riding bikes as a teenager and has owned over 10 bikes throughout his life. Matthew loves exploring the picturesque British countryside on two wheels and uses his matthewbikelog to document his riding adventures. When he's not out on his...