Yamaha WR 125 R returns after an eight-year absence
Yamaha has officially reintroduced the WR125R for 2026, a dual-sport machine designed to be as comfortable weaving through city traffic as it is on the lighter trails and green lanes. Last seen in 2017, the revitalised WR125R is set to entice new riders into mixing some off-road adventures with their commutes.
Powered by a 125cc single-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) – the same technology as seen in Yamaha’s other 125 model range: R125, MT-125 and XSR125, the WR125R delivers a flexible and punchy performance across the rev range. It’s a bike that won’t intimidate beginners but still knows how to have fun when the throttle opens up. With 14.7bhp (11kW) of peak power and 11Nm (8.1ft-lbs) of torque, it’s not going to win drag races - but it might win hearts.
The VVA system means the motor can perform in two states of tune according to what is being asked of it including lower speed acceleration where the engine uses one of the two inlet cams but when the revs rise a solenoid activates a dowel that slides through the valve’s rocker arm and engages a different cam with a more aggressive profile with more lift, more overlap and longer duration so the engine can breathe harder, move more gas and burn fuel more efficiently thus improving performance. Got it? When we rode the MT and R125 models, the transition is seamless.
The suspension comes in the form of conventional 41mm KYB forks at the front with a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear looking after a 21” front wheel and 18” rear. And while the 875mm seat height may appear a little daunting, do remember this is a narrow bike so the stand-over height:width ratio would be worth exploring.
Yamaha’s engineers have also been busy with the WR125R’s semi-double cradle frame, KYB suspension, and go-anywhere Dunlop D605 tyres. It’s built to handle potholes and pinecones with equal ease. And with a claimed fuel economy figure of 113mpg, it’s as frugal as it is adventurous.
Styling-wise, the WR125R blends Yamaha’s off-road heritage with modern touches like a dual-lens LED headlight and smartphone-connected LCD dash. Available in Icon Blue and Yamaha Black with pricing and availability set to be announced pre-Christmas 2025.
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