Yamaha MT-125 vs Honda CB125R
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Yamaha MT-125 and Honda CB125R 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-125 leads on power with 15 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 pickYamaha
Yamaha MT-125
Honda
Honda CB125RThe verdict
The Yamaha MT-125 edges it overall at 7.9/10, but the Honda CB125R wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Honda CB125R
A2-legal, 15 hp, forgiving to learn on.
Honda CB125R
15 hp and 0.12 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.
Yamaha MT-125
Our top score in this matchup at 7.9/10.
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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Yamaha MT-125 vs Honda CB125R: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Yamaha MT-125 or the Honda CB125R?
The Yamaha MT-125 makes the most power at 15 hp and 11.5 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Yamaha MT-125 or the Honda CB125R?
The Honda CB125R is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $4,999.
Which is lighter, the Yamaha MT-125 or the Honda CB125R?
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 Yamaha MT-125 or the Honda CB125R?
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.
