Honda CB125R vs Yamaha MT-03
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Honda CB125R and Yamaha MT-03 are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. They land within touching distance on price, so this comes down to character and fit. On paper the Yamaha MT-03 leads on power with 42 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
Our pickHonda
Honda CB125R
Yamaha
Yamaha MT-03The verdict
The Honda CB125R edges it overall at 7.8/10, but the Yamaha MT-03 wins on most exciting, so let how you ride decide.
Honda CB125R
A2-legal, 15 hp, forgiving to learn on.
Yamaha MT-03
42 hp and 0.25 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Honda CB125R
Our 7.8/10 at $4,999, the most bike per dollar.
Honda CB125R
130 kg with an 816 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Honda CB125R
Our top score in this matchup at 7.8/10.
Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.
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Honda CB125R vs Yamaha MT-03: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Honda CB125R or the Yamaha MT-03?
The Yamaha MT-03 makes the most power at 42 hp and 29.5 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Honda CB125R or the Yamaha MT-03?
The Honda CB125R is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $4,999.
Which is lighter, the Honda CB125R or the Yamaha MT-03?
The Honda CB125R is the lightest at 130 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the Honda CB125R or the Yamaha MT-03?
For a new rider we'd point to the Honda CB125R: A2-legal, 15 hp and 130 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
