Yamaha has launched the BWs 125 this year, a scooter that mirrors the aggressive look of the BWs 50 with its nice big fat tires, the most popular scooter here in Quebec for the past decade. The BWs 125 targets a young, urban crowd looking for an original, compact and sure-footed machine. Moto123.com put it through its paces during the 69th Annual Daytona Bike Week – that’s right, cruising down Main Street in a sea of Harleys!

A distinctive but lovable style, for those who silently desired more performance from their BWs 50. (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)

Endearing style
The BWs 125 stands out thanks to a very dynamic profile, with a front end that brings back memories of winning Yamaha Dakar machines of yesteryear. The 125 really breaks away from the competition with its low beltline, streamlined front boasting two large headlights, fork gaiters and nice wide tires and mud guards. What’s more, I was impressed by the high quality of its plastics, paint job and finish.

Small and efficient engine
The BWs 125 draws power from a 125-cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected four-stroke mill, producing 15 hp and coupled with a mechanical CVT – an efficient power train that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to build. The effective combination propels the machine without much hesitation right up to a maximum speed of 95 km/h, and provides satisfying and confidence inspiring throttle response right up to 80 km/h.

Spacious and user-friendly
This 125 seems to conjure up space, with a long, cushy seat, foldaway foot pegs and a grab rail to take good care of your passenger, while the 20-litre storage compartment under the seat effortlessly swallows your full-face helmet and various trinkets. The contemporary dash provides all of the necessary information for urban riding, and the wide, flat floorboard allows you to drop a bag between your legs – making it easier for me to forgive the absence of a baggage hook.

The BWs 125 boasts a slew of useful equipment for both on and – yes – off road jaunts, as well as give the scooter some added flair: hand guards, a protective mesh grille for the headlights, a fork lock that also blocks the ignition switch, storage compartment locks, and centre- and side-stands.

Reliable braking system
Yamaha did an excellent job with the 125’s brakes while still managing to keep things simple. Even without front/rear coupling or an ABS system, the 220-mm front disc and rear drum are fully up to the task at hand. The light-pull levers give good feedback as to what’s going on at the wheels; and the brakes do not fade from repeated hard use.

Simple and strong disc brake and front suspension, including the nice, fat tire - works for me! (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)