2017 Yamaha YS125 Launched; Will It Make It To India?

For 2017, Yamaha has updated its successful YBR125 commuter motorcycle in European markets with an updated model - the Yamaha YS125. The new YS125 shares the same running gear as the YBR125, with fresh and sportier styling, and a redesigned engine which is said to offer lower fuel consumption and has a large 14-litre fuel tank. It meets Euro 4 emission regulations, and comes equipped with Unified Braking System, something similar to Honda's Combi-Brake System which activates brakes on both wheels from either the lever or the brake pedal.

Cosmetically, the Yamaha YS125 gets sporty styling with a newly designed headlight surrounded by a compact cowl. A muscular, chiselled tank with sporty air scoops and an upswept muffler completes the sporty look of the new Yamaha. The 795 seat height gives a natural and upright commuting position and Yamaha says the single seat will give "added passenger comfort with a convenient grab rail."

(Yamaha YS125 Engine)

The Yamaha YS125 is powered by a single-cylinder, two-valve, 125 cc single overhead cam engine which makes maximum power of 10.5 bhp at 7,500 rpm and peak torque of 10.8 Nm at 6,000 rpm. Fuelling is through electronic fuel injection and the bike weighs 129 kg in the wet (with lubricants and fuel). In terms of cycle parts, the YS125 gets 18-inch wheels at both ends and a telescopic front fork and swingarm mounted twin shocks at the rear.

(Yamaha YS125 Fuel tank)

Now, Yamaha India's 125 cc range is led by the Yamaha Saluto (both disc and drum brake variants) and accounts for around 50,000 unit sales a month, that's only about 3.5-4 per cent of overall sales in the 110-125 cc motorcycle market in India. According to India Yamaha officials, commercially, the Saluto is performing satisfactorily - and its simple design, fuel efficient engine and pillion-friendly ergonomics do appeal to a wide range of customers. This segment also registers an over 10 per cent increase in year-on-year sales. The question then is - will India Yamaha introduce the Yamaha YS125 as a sportier, more stylish package in the Indian market?

When contacted, India Yamaha officials refused to comment on any such plans, saying that right now, the company is focussed on the recently-launched Yamaha FZ25. The YS125 certainly looks like a promising product - both in terms of styling and technology and if India Yamaha does decide to manufacture and sell it in India, it could well be the trump card to increase India Yamaha's market share in the high-volumes 125 cc commuter motorcycle space.