As we monitor motorcycle releases around the globe, we’re often fascinated by the 125-class offers. Although 125s are huge sellers globally, those bikes rarely make it to the United States. The 2026 Yamaha WR125R is an exception—we’re getting it. With that established, let’s dive into what this highly affordable, and impressively high-spec, dual-sport bike is all about.
- The 2026 Yamaha WR125R has a sophisticated motor. Not only is it fuel-injected and liquid-cooled, the SOHC, four-valve head also features dual intake cam profiles. One of the profiles emphasizes low- to midrange torque, while the other emphasizes high-rpm horsepower and allows the motor to spin up to 11,000 rpm. A six-speed transmission makes the most of the available power.
- The WR125R has full-size wheels and legitimate dual-sport tires for off-road action. The expected 21-/18-inch wheelset is fitted with Dunlop D605 tires. While dedicated off-roaders will be mounting more aggressive rubber, D605s are a good compromise on a modern dual-sport motorcycle.
- KYB suspension is employed at both ends. The fork has 8.5 inches of travel, while the rear wheel has its 7.3 inches of travel modulated by a single, linkage-assisted shock. The suspension cannot be adjusted, other than the shock’s spring preload.
- Disc brakes, Nissin calipers, and a Bosch ABS slow the 2026 Yamaha WR125R down. The ABS is front-wheel-only, acting on the 267mm disc that is gripped by a two-piston caliper. A 220mm disc and single-piston caliper slow down the rear wheel.
- The ergonomics and controls are off-road focused. The footpegs and foot pedal are serrated. To allow the rider to get weight over the front wheel in the dirt, the narrow seat extends over the 2.1-gallon fuel tank. The radiator shrouds and bodywork are designed to make it easy to move around on the bike.
- The 2026 Yamaha WR125R has an exceptional range. While the fuel tank holds a modest 2.1 gallons, the engine squeezes an estimated 94 miles out of a gallon of fuel. That works out to around 200 miles out of a tank of gas, though we’ll wait to see what sort of mileage the bike gets when riding off-road.
- A compact LCD provides the rider with essential information. There’s a large speed readout, along with a bar-style tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel level, and connectivity data. Warning lights congregate on the left side of the dashboard. It all sits behind a number plate and headlight shroud combo, with the dual rectangular LED headlights stacked.
- You can pair your smartphone to the WR125R. All you need is an Android or iOS smartphone and the free Yamaha Y-Connect app. Functions include notifications for calls, email, and texts, along with ride tracking, data acquisition (fuel consumption and more), motorcycle location, maintenance alerts, and more.
- The list price of the 2026 Yamaha WR125R is a tempting $3999. The WR125R is available in Team Yamaha Blue or Black. Look for it at your local Yamaha dealer this month.
2026 Yamaha WR125R SpecsENGINE
- Type: Single cylinder
- Displacement: 125cc
- Bore x stroke: 52 x 58.7mm
- Compression ratio: 11:2:1
- Valvetrain: SOHC; 4 valves w/ dual intake valve timing
- Fueling: EFI
- Cooling: Liquid
- Starting: Electric
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Clutch: Wet multiplate
- Final drive: Chain
CHASSIS
- Front suspension; travel: Non-adjustable KYB 41mm fork; 8.5 inches
- Rear suspension; travel: Linkage-assisted KYB shock; 7.3 inches
- Tires: Dunlop D605
- Front tire: 90/90-21
- Rear tire: 110/80-18
- Front brake: 267mm disc w/ 2-piston Nissin caliper
- Rear brake: 220mm disc w/ single-piston Nissin caliper
- ABS: Front-wheel only
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 56.3 inches
- Rake: 28.3 degrees
- Trail: 4.6 inches
- Seat height: 34.4 inches
- Ground clearance: 9.4 inches
- Fuel capacity: 2.1 gallons
- Estimated fuel consumption: 94 mpg
- Curb weight: 304 pounds
- Color: Team Yamaha Blue; Black
2026 Yamaha WR125R Price: $3999 MSRP
2026 Yamaha WR125R Photo Gallery
