In the braking department, Yamaha installed a 220-millimeter hydraulic front disc brake with single-piston calliper and semi-metallic pads for superior performance. A 150-millimeter drum brake is fitted in the back. Elsewhere, 5-spoke, "mag style" aluminium wheels are wrapped by oversized tubeless tires.

The instrument panel remains pretty basic yet functional.

Despite a curb weight of 113 kilograms, the 2009 Yamaha BWs 125 proves easy to park. No matter which stand you rely on, the balanced weight distribution transforms the operation into child's play.

The instrument panel remains pretty basic yet functional (speedometer, odometer and electric fuel gauge, plus a range of warning lights). What's more, the controls are nicely laid out.

Room for two
The bulge-free seat is long enough to comfortably accommodate two people. The passenger grab rail is wide and conveniently designed. Also improving passenger comfort are well thought-out side footpegs. (The rider obviously gets full-size floorboards.)

Limited storage
You can open the under-seat trunk by turning the ignition key either to the left or right. However, this compartment will not hold all full-face helmets. If the folks at Yamaha wanted to make the BWs 125 a practical scooter for the city, they have failed. Actually, it may be my only major complaint about this new model.

Beyond the main trunk and cargo hook (which can be used to carry an additional helmet), there are no other storage solutions -- not even a cargo rack. The rider has no other choice but to keep his or her stuff (books, groceries, etc.) in a backpack. Most scooter owners find multiple ways to use the storage units at their disposal and I believe this shortcoming will affect sales of the BWs 125.

More powerful
Yamaha offers a wide selection of 125-cc engines; finding one to power the new BWs was easy. The air-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve, 4-stroke engine produces about 11 horsepower and 7.233 pounds-feet of torque. The fuel injection system with 24-millimeter throttle body allows quicker, smoother takeoffs, while the fully-automatic CVT delivers quick V-belt engagement for satisfying accelerations.

The bulge-free seat is long enough to comfortably accommodate two people.