The 2026 Yamaha WR125R
Living in Southern California, I see motorcycle riders everywhere. They are commuters splitting lanes, weekend canyon carvers, and plenty of younger riders discovering the freedom that comes with twisting a throttle. It feels fitting, then, that Yamaha chooses this backdrop to introduce the 2026 WR125R during a press ride here in SoCal.
The WR125R steps confidently into the entry-level dual-sport category, but it doesn’t feel like a beginner bike in the traditional sense. Instead, it positions itself as an accessible gateway—ideal for first-time riders who want a manageable, lightweight machine, and equally appealing to seasoned street riders ready to trade pavement for a little dirt.
Be sure to check out my video review at the end of this article.
Entry level dual sport
The "WR" in WR125R stands for "wide-ratio" transmission. A wide-ratio gearbox spaces the gears farther apart compared to a close-ratio transmission (like you’d find on a motocross bike). The goal is versatility. The lower first gear gives you better low-speed control and torque for technical trails, steep climbs, and slow off-road riding. Taller gearing at the top of the range enables the bike to go faster without winding out the engine.
That means the WR125R can tractor along on dirt without constantly slipping the clutch. When on the pavement, it can cruise comfortably at a road worthy speed. That broader spread between gears is exactly what makes a dual-sport feel adaptable rather than specialized.
With its approachable power, modern features, and budget-friendly price point, the WR125R aims to lower the barrier to adventure. After spending time in the saddle, it’s clear this small-displacement dual-sport is designed to make riding feel less intimidating—and a whole lot more fun.
Bike Size and Ergonomics
Seat height is often a concern for women riders, particularly with offroad capable machines. I compared notes on the Yamaha WR125R seat height and ergonomics with the other two women on the ride.
A 34” seat height is standard for dual sport motorcycles, but the good news is there is a low seat accessory available that drops it by an inch. The bike is narrow which also helps shorter riders achieve more solid footplant.
A potential disadvantage for new riders is the weight. Dual sport motorcycles tend to be heavier than offroad only dirtbikes. Coming in with a curb weight of 304 lbs, the Yamaha WR125R is fairly heavy for such a small displacement motorcycle. The weight could be a concern when picking up the bike after a tipover. However, I find overall it is still on the lighter end of the offroad motorcycle spectrum, and picking it up is quite doable.
Tires and Brakes
I am impressed by the stock Dunlop D605 dual sport tires. Sometimes dual sport tires can feel squirely when you take to the pavement at higher speeds, but the Yamaha WR125R felt planted. I was confident leaning into the curves on the mountain road as we headed back to our starting point. I did have one oops moment when I slid a bit on a section of mud, but the rear tire quickly found traction again.
Suspension and Ride Comfort
The 41mm KYB front fork suspension provides excellent damping and handles expertly both off road and on paved terrain. On dirt and large rocks there is plenty of travel, 8.5 inches in the front and 7.3 inches at the rear. Potholes are smoothed out with no jolting or bucking of the back end.
Surprisingly, the Yamaha WR125R seat is more comfortable than most stock dirt bike seats which can feel like sitting on a “brick”. This is important because most new-to-off-road riders won’t stand on the pegs at first as they learn proper dirt and sand technique, so they will be well acquainted with that seat.
For a smaller displacement dual sport motorcycle, the WR125R is plenty capable in first gear doing steep climbs. It feels smooth on the throttle even in bumpy uphill situations. Its fuel injected, 6-speed transmission gets an impressive (claimed) 94 mpg from the 2.1 gallon fuel tank. This is great for off roaders who don’t want the hassle of carrying extra gas.
Technology for the Rider
The cockpit includes a speedometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge that includes real time and average fuel consumption, a clock, gear indicator and VVA indicator. Not as common in off road motorcycles, the Yamaha WR125R offers smart phone connectivity through the Yamaha Y-Connect app. This LCD display alerts riders of phone calls and email. In the app you can even access vehicle data and maintenance schedule, or check the vehicle’s last parking location.
Specs At A Glance: 2026 WR125R
Engine: 125cc liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve single-cylinder
Fuel Capacity: 2.1 gallons
Transmission/Start: Electric start
Wheels/Tires: 21-inch front / 18-inch rear
Seat Height: 34.4 in. (optional 1-in. lower seat available)
Curb Weight: 304 lbs
Colors: Black, Team Yamaha Blue
MSRP: $3,999
ACCESSORIES
Low seat: 33.4 inches
Aluminum skid plate
WRN Final Thoughts
I’m genuinely impressed by how capable the Yamaha WR125R feels. It delivers far more performance than you’d expect from a small-displacement dual-sport motorcycle. It is a testament to Yamaha’s strategy of targeting new riders, and street riders who are curious about venturing onto dirt.
The $3,999 price tag is equally compelling. For riders hesitant about rolling the dice on a used bike with unknown history, outdated components, or hidden issues, this offers a brand-new, modern option at an approachable price.
Sure, the seat height and 304-pound curb weight may give some riders pause. But the convenience of electric start, impressive fuel efficiency, and user-friendly power delivery balance that equation nicely.
The Yamaha WR125R is ready for dirt, ready for pavement, and ready for adventure. And for many riders, that versatility alone seals the deal.
Visit www.yamahamotorsports.com to learn more.