power: 2006 yz125 vs my 89 yz125

[Nevada Sixx]

hi, i think i'd like to upgrade my bike to a 2006 yz125,, i have a 1989 model yz125 now,, will there be a significant gain in power in a 06 model? one reason i dont ride my 89 is that it seems underpowered for me. but a 250 has too much... thanks.
sean.

 

[robwbright]

This is a total guesstimation, partly because dynos vary so much and partly because my memory may not be that good, but here goes . . .

In 1988, my friend bought a brand new 1998 CR125. As I recall, my 1986 CR80 was tested by one of the magazines to have 18.3 HP. I remember this number clearly because I was doing HP to weight comparisons on different bikes. Anyway, my friend's 125 was rated in the mid 20s - something like 25 or 26 HP, I think.

By most accounts today, the stock 125s are running 31-33HP - somewhere in that range. Of course those are different dynos, so your results may vary . . .

If you want to split the difference between the 125 and the 250, I can't recommend my Gorr 144 kit enough. . . :aj:

 

[bikepilot]

The power is a very noticeable improvement but the suspension and handling are worlds better. I say go for it. If you don't do MX and spend your time trail riding you might consider a KDX200 instead. About the same top end hp, but a lot more low-mid power. Less clutch work and easier to ride.

 

[TimberPig]

The 89 YZ 125 wasn't exactly the top 125 when it was made, yet alone 17 years later. The 2006 will have significantly better power, and a vastly better chassis. I highly doubt you will regret it if you upgrade. I would say go for it. If you want more power, it can always be modified to increase that if you wish, as mentioned.

 

[MXP1MP]

There is no comparing the two I used to know someone who had an '89 trust me the '06 would just walk away from it. I 125 from the last 80's that might have max at 27 hp compared to one that has a broader power band and maxs more around 33hp not to mention way better handling suspenion ergo's feel etc. If you got an '06 that 89 would become like a red headed step child. ;)

 

[Nevada Sixx]

i'd just hope it will wheelie up better,, my old one feels so heavy and underpowered at my 180 pounds of body weight,,,, any riders my size got new 125? does it wheelie ok?
thanks.

 

[motodawg]

In the right hands and on the right track the 2006 YZ125 will compete with ANY bike. In area arenacross this winter one young intermediate rider bested even 250 2 strokes and 450's in the Open classes. Granted he is a gifted rider and knows how to carry speed in the corners and is fearless in the technical stuff, but the Yamaha does not let him down. Hands down it is the most awesome factory 125 ever built. If you like 2-strokes and don't want a 250, buy a YZ125. It's that simple.

 

[MXP1MP]

Does it wheelie okay?! you must be joking when I first got it first time out on a track I had issue's with it wheeling up on me by just getting on the pipe good. That was when it was stock and I was coming off an '04 KX 125! Now as a YZ 144 it's more like alittle brap of the gas and it's up especially so in the low gears. Even a modified '94 thru '04 YZ 125 would still beat out your old YPVS style motor. Remember yamaha came up with that design in '82!

 

[Nevada Sixx]

hey mxp,, tell me more about that 144 kit,, does it give better bottom, but still rev? I heard that a larger pistion dont matter much if isnt attached to a longer rod...

 

[robwbright]

hey mxp,, tell me more about that 144 kit,, does it give better bottom, but still rev? I heard that a larger pistion dont matter much if isnt attached to a longer rod...

Nevadasixx - I know this wasn't directed at me, but the 144's still rev! Bottom end is a bit better as well. My first ride report is at:

http://www.dirtrider.net/forums3/showthread.php?t=126800

 

[MXP1MP]

Yea it's got more bottom and torque over the stock 125 and I even had it ported for more mid/top race gas head mods it's better in everyway it didn't take away any from stock setup it's only better. If anything the stock gearing isn't tall enough anymore I feel like I could drop two teeth off the rear no problem and it will still pull better than when it was a 125.

 

[gurt]

I have a 1988 yz 125 and a 1999 yz 125 and i can say the even the 1999 is worlds better. It has more power,better handling, and just an over all better feel than the 88. With that said, I would definately go for the upgrade. Also, you can get a lot more aftermarket parts for the 04 to make it exactly what you want.