Yamaha RD125DX
77/100 Overall
63 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha RD125DX vs Honda MTX125R
Yamaha RD125DX scores 77/100 overall against Honda MTX125R on 75/100. On the road: 63–70. As classics: 90–80. Overall result: Yamaha RD125DX.
Photo: motorbikecatalog.com · Public domain
Honda MTX125R
75/100 Overall
70 On the road80 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD125DX | Honda MTX125R | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 6 | Honda MTX125R |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 7 | Honda MTX125R |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 8 | Honda MTX125R |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 6 | Honda MTX125R |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 8 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 8 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 9 | Level |
Choose the Yamaha RD125DX if…
you want a proper twin-cylinder learner motorcycle with disc-brake styling, a crisp exhaust note and strong 1970s nostalgia.
Choose the Honda MTX125R if…
you want Honda reliability with tall trail-bike styling, lively two-stroke performance and genuine 1980s nostalgia.
Background
History
Yamaha RD125DX
The Yamaha RD125DX was produced from 1975–1982 and used a 124cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Honda MTX125R
The Honda MTX125R was produced from 1983–1989 and used a 124cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha RD125DX
- Its production span in this library runs from 1975 to 1982.
- The recorded engine description is: 124cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Honda MTX125R
- Its production span in this library runs from 1983 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 124cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, reliability.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha RD125DX
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RD125DX. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Honda MTX125R
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda MTX125R. Its library score for character is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Yamaha RD125DX
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Honda MTX125R
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Yamaha RD125DX
Rivals to the Honda MTX125R
Final result
The verdict
Honda MTX125R wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha RD125DX wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha RD125DX takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.