Right-sized urban rocket
Thanks to Yamaha’s sporting heritage, this little steed projects a markedly different feel compared to so-called city scooters. The wider-than-average handlebars, the streamlined nose and the judiciously distributed weight inspire confidence, enough for you to want to go out there and have a little fun. You quickly find yourself “attacking” street corners, hips and knees thrown out almost instinctively. In fact, the machine easily eclipsed the heavy, ponderous cruisers swarming all over Daytona and paying the price for their extra mass.

And the fun doesn’t stop there: thanks to the 15 hp and the excellent CVT box, initial acceleration surprises everyone when the light turns green - especially the other motorists, much to their displeasure, and reduced to trying to get their revenge at the next light. In fact, such efficient acceleration and throttle response increase your safety in traffic, allowing you to quickly escape hazardous situations.

Narrow and a little busy, with nice touches like the hand protectors, the high mirrors and the mesh protecting the headlights. (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)

All this mischief also come from the highly responsive engine, the stiff, modern frame that ensures both nimbleness and stability, the user-friendly braking system and the 12-inch wheels shod in big, multipurpose tires that give the desired grip no matter the surface.

At high(er) speeds, the small amount of protection provided by the tiny windscreen doesn’t do much for the taller among us, but the efficient hand guards are always welcome.

Responsive, quick and agile, the BWs 125 is one of the sportiest scooters in the industry, featuring toned-down versions of the same remarkable qualities of its sporty big brother, the T-Max 500. With its equipment, qualities and bad-boy attitude, the BWs 125 is an ideal urban solution for the young at heart.

Plus
Efficient engine and CVT
Fun to ride
Distinctive style
Storage space
Grippy, versatile multipurpose tires

Less
No windscreen
No baggage hook