Yamaha RD125DX
77/100 Overall
63 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha RD125DX vs Yamaha RS100
Yamaha RD125DX scores 77/100 overall against Yamaha RS100 on 68/100. On the road: 63–62. As classics: 90–73. Overall result: Yamaha RD125DX.
Photo: Seán Pòl Ó Creachmhaoil · CC BY-SA 4.0
Yamaha RS100
68/100 Overall
62 On the road73 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha RD125DX | Yamaha RS100 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 4 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 5 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha RS100 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha RS100 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha RD125DX |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | Yamaha RD125DX |
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 Yamaha RS100 if…
you want a simple, light and economical Yamaha that represents everyday British learner transport in the late 1970s.
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.
Yamaha RS100
The Yamaha RS100 was produced from 1975–1980 and used a 97cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, character. 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.
Yamaha RS100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1975 to 1980.
- The recorded engine description is: 97cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, character.
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.
Yamaha RS100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha RS100. Its library score for reliability is 8/10. 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.
Yamaha RS100
- 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 Yamaha RS100
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha RD125DX 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.