Yamaha motor launching Yamaha YBR in Pakistan in 2015 marked the arrival of Honda CG125’s arch rival. Both motorbikes have been head-to-head ever since. While many thought that YBR will blow CG125 out of the market, as it did possess the means to, this is certainly not the case. But why really is that? Lets try to figure that out with our take on Honda CG125 vs Yamaha YBR 125G.
Since YBR 125G is the highest selling variant for Yamaha, we shall use this variant for our comparison.
Overview
Honda CG125
Honda CG 125 has been a style icon for several decades; An icon of style, perfection, and power. Honda 125 is a perfect tough road-master for all kinds of roads and never lets you down when it comes to comfort and economy. Honda CG125 is a stunning outcome of the latest Japanese technology to survive and run the best performance in all conditions. The fascinating silencer modification looks enthralling with the eye-catching tank graphics. Honda CG 125 2023 now comes with Euro II technology offering great miles per kilometer on the road while keeping a good balance of performance and road grip.
Honda CG125 is currently priced at PKR 186,900.
Yamaha YBR 125G
Yamaha presents a wholesome new experience of biking with its new YBR 125G. The YBR 125G is intelligently designed keeping into account the true taste of passionate bikers. Yamaha YBR 125G has an overall look of a trail bike. It possesses the same engine as that of Yamaha YBR 125. Yamaha YBR 125G has powerful shocks that are the key to this bike. The alluring speedometer has a gear indicator and fuel indicator.
The significantly broad and comfortable seat of Yamaha YBR 125G ensures good backbone support on long journeys. Alloy rims, self-start mechanism, and sporty body shape with dynamic graphics and Yamaha logo force its buyers to boast proudly of their appealing ride.
Yamaha YBR 125G is currently priced at PKR 352,500.
Honda CG125 vs Yamaha YBR 125G
With the overview of both motorbikes at our disposal, let’s dive deeper into the details since that’s where the devil resides.
Specifications
CG125
The Honda CG125 2023 new model has a Euro II 4-Stroke OHV Air-Cooled engine with bore & stroke of 56.5 x 49.5 mm. It has a fuel capacity of 9.2 Liters (Reserve: 2 Liters) and comes with a 4 Speed Constant Mesh transmission. With the dimensions of 1912 x 735 x 1026 mm, it comes with a ground clearance of 132 mm. Its seat height is 764 mm making it easy for people of normal height to easily sit and handle the motorcycle.
The overall wheelbase of CG 125 is 1204 mm which helps in keeping the bike stable. The front tire is 2.50 – 18 (4 PR) while the tire at back is 3.00 – 17 (6 PR). The front suspension of 2023 CG 125 is Telescopic Fork 103 mm Travel while the rear suspension is Swing Arm 68 mm Travel. It comes with a dry weight of 100 kg which provides it stability.
YBR 125G
The YBR 125G comes with a 4-stroke, air-cooled, SOHC engine with a displacement of 124 cm3. The bore and stroke measurements in YBR 125G are 54.0 mm x 54.0 mm, respectively. It comes with 5-speed constant mesh transmission and a compression ratio of 10.0:1. The wheelbase of the YBR 125G is 1300 mm with a ground clearance of 145 mm.
The fuel capacity in YBR 125G is 13L. Its overall dimensions are 1990 x 745 x 1080 mm with a seat height of 785 mm. The front tire has a 3 mm width with a diameter of 18 inches and 47p speed index while the rear tire has 90mm width, 90mm height, and 18 inches diameter. The dry weight of Yamaha YBR 125G is 113 kg.
Features & Design
YBR 125G
The Yamaha YBR 125G comes with a two-valve engine and a DCI ignition system of 12V DC. It comes with both electric starter and kick starter features. The front has a 12V halogen bulb headlamp with a smoked shield. The front brake is a single disc brake while the rear brake is a drum brake.
The YBR 125G has a telescopic, coil spring, oil damper front suspension, and a swing arm, coil spring, oil damper rear suspension. The rear suspension is adjustable. The bike also comes with an engine balancer. For the rider’s convenience, there is a prominent dial in the front with information of the fuel gauge, gear indicator, and trip meter. The engine guard covers the engine for better protection.
Yamaha YBR 125G has a sporty design suitable for an off-roading bike. It comes with a special dual front fender. The long front shock absorber with rubber boots makes the ride comfortable, safe, and exciting. The seat is sporty and stylish with a tail-up design.
The rear suspension has the feature of 5-step adjustment which makes riding on bumpy tracks easier. The Yamaha YBR 125G also has block-pattern tires for better grip. On top of that, it comes with a cast wheel and chrome protector muffler which gives it a stylish look.
CG125
The Honda CG 125 is a kick-start motorcycle that is known for its good performance and durability. It comes with a roller chain and has the standard features of CG 125 without much change over the years.
The design of CG 125 has not changed much since its launch. Even though the company claims it has made several changes to its exterior, consumers fail to see any major improvements. Some minor changes include a raised pillion seat and lower rear indicators.
Ride & handling
CG125
The Honda CG 125 is popular because of its stability and performance. Its sturdy frame and broad wheelbase provide it with more stability during rides. It also has a strong grip making its handling easier.
Its parts are easily available everywhere in Pakistan and mechanics have intensive knowledge about its mechanism, making its maintenance easier.
YBR 125G
The Yamaha YBR 125G is built for riding on rough tracks and for off-roading. Its smaller wheelbase challenges stability but adds to its swiftness and speed. Its sporty design is accompanied by a better rear suspension for a smoother ride. It also has better stability than the YBR 125G and can be quickly taken on twisty roads.
Pros & Cons
CG125
The advantages of CG125 are exceptional initial pick, durable and readily available parts and service centres. Excellent resale value and impeccable sound.
Cons include the fact that it vibrates too much, average fuel economy and no innovation in design and features whatsoever.
YBR 125G
Factors that outshine YBR 125G are its sporty looks, excellent handling, road grip and riding experience. It offers good fuel economy.
Inaccurate fuel gauge and the fact the it s too expensive in it’s category. The drawbacks, however consist of expensive maintenance and spare parts. Less initial pick as compared to Honda CG125.
Final Thoughts
While it’s tough to decide which motorbike takes the cake, we can say that YBR 125G has better design and safety features, whereas CG125 has better performance and after-sale service. Whatever you choose, you can always enjoy the experience both motorbikes bring to the table.
