Yamaha introduced the new bike SS125 to provide low cost option to the bikers and this one is the third option in the same segment. The other options in the segments are 100 cc, 125 cc and 150 cc engine, and the SS 125 is another version comes with the 4 stroke – air cooled 124 cc engines, which can deliver a better performance at a low cost. The new bike provides a combination of comfort and style, and it provides a better fuel economy.
Appearance
The external look of the bike has new graphics and the model has been launched in a combination of two colors Blue and Black, and Black and Red. The bold new graphics are impressive and the color scheme is also improved. The instrument panel is designed stylishly and the rear side has the unique tail lamp. Alloy wheel improve the robustness of the bike.
Dimension: The dimension of the bike is reduced as compared to the earlier model and the new bike is 1995mm in length that is 70 mm lesser as compared to Gladiator SS / RS but it has been made tall and the height is increased to 1110 mm .The saddle height is also increased from 790mm to 795mm.The overall change in height has made the bike comfortable for tall commuter.
Wheelbase: The wheelbase has been reduced by 5mm, although, the wheelbase should have been increased to improve stability and comfort, but the new wheelbase is 1295mm instead of 1300 mm.
Weight: As compared to Gladiator SS / RS, the weight of the new bike is reduced from 128 kg to 125 kg.
Fuel tank: Fuel tank’s size is increased and it can hold 0.6 liters of more fuel .The tank’s capacity has also increased from 13 liters to 13.6 liters.
Headlamp: The headlamp is changed and now it supports 12 volts and 35 /25 Watt as compared to 12V – 35 /35 W, and the new headlamp support improved visibility in night. The rear view look has also been improved.
Engine
4- stroke: The four stroke air cooled SOHC cc engine provides a peak power of 11 PS @ 7500 rpm and torque of 10.4 Nm @6500 rpm – which is almost same in the 125 cc range .It provides both the options — kick start and self start, and it comes with the CDI ignition feature.
Improved throttle position: The throttle position sensor has been joined to the acceleration system and it provides improved acceleration.
5-speed gearbox: The five speed gearbox enables the rider to get wide power and better performance. It enables the bike to be used for long drives on highways.
Carburetor fuel system: The bike has a carburetor fuel system, air cooling technology, 5 – speed mesh transmission gears and wet sump lubrication. The wet sump lubrication enables the bike to use the fuel completely and improve its efficiency.
Easy shifting between gears: The new bike enables easy shifting between the gears and air cooled technology improves the performance.
Ride and handling
The seat shape appears like a shoe and both the rider on the seat can find it very comfortable and stable, and the bike can provide full comfort even in long journeys. It has been featured to have sound brake system .In the front disc brake is present and drum brakes are provided on the rear which also enables easy deceleration and provide quick brake.
Suspension
The front side has the telescopic fork and the rear has the swing arm suspension which improves handling and positioning. The seating position is also improved because of the new features. The new suspension provides better stability and security to the passengers and prevents shocks and jumps on bumpy roads.
Improved features
1. Improved Air filter
2. Retractable footrest
3. Muffler to cover the tubes and to provide a better look
4. The low level engine cowl
5. Improved tachometer
6. The new disc brakes
7. Light weight aluminium wheels
8. New 5-speed gearbox
9. Better shock absorption using the du metal front fork
10. It gives an average mileage of 55 kmpl petrol
Benefits
1. The bike has higher efficiency and provides average mileage.
2. Its looks are improved.
3. It is cost effective bike of Yamaha.
Drawbacks
1. It will get strong competition from low range Honda bikes.
2. Buyers expect Yamaha to deliver greater efficiency and speed like sports bikes, which is not achieved by this model.
3. The wheelbase should be improved.
Cost
The bike has been priced at Rs 50,000 in Delhi.
Yamaha SS 125 specifications
Dimensions
· Overall length x width x height: 1995 x 730 x 1110 mm
· Seat height: 795 mm
· Wheelbase: 1,295 mm
· Ground clearance(min): 155 mm
· Fuel tank capacity: 13.6 litres
Engine
· Air cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, Forward-inclined single cylinder
· Displacement: 123cc
· Bore & Stroke: 54.0 x 54.0 mm
· Compression ratio: 10.0:1
· Maximum power: 11 PS/7500 rpm (8 KW@7500rpm)
· Maximum torque: 10.4 Nm/6,500 rpm
· Lubrication: Wet sump
· Fuel supply: Carburetor
· Starting method: Electric starter and kick starter
· Clutch type: Wet, multiple-disc
· Ignition type: CDI
· Transmission type: 5-gear Constant mesh
· Chassis: Frame type: Diamond tubular type
· Suspension (front/rear): Telescopic fork, Swingarm
· Brake type (front/rear): Disk, drum
· Tyre size (front/rear):2.75-18.4PR, 3.00-18.6PR
· Battery: 12V-5AH
· Caster/Trail: 26.0 degree/90.0 mm
· Headlight: 12V 35/25W Halogen bulb
