General Comments:

The RD125LC mk2 in standard form restricted power is 12hp; unrestricted it's 21hp. Any LC running correctly with say a micron small can exhaust, cone filter and correct jets and race reeds will top 100mph on its speedo no problem. I had this done to my mk2, and it would go off the clock; it was only ever beaten by a brand new 88 RG125 Pepsi Gamma that was unrestricted.

I now have a mk3 RDZ 125LC which is a limited run model in white or black. This is the YPVS model; british bikes had the servo unit/wiring for the YPVS removed, however mine is from Switzerland, so it's all wired up. These are the best ones of all the 125 LSs. Handling, brakes, power is very good. Decent tyres and a some PROPER mods will easily see off modern 125s, as the rd is lighter than most.

Faults:

The engine required a full rebuild when acquired.

The left hand crankshaft mainshaft was badly worn. The main bearings, gearbox bearings and piston rings were worn.

However, the clutch components and gearshafts were sound. The total cost of the engine rebuild was £200.

The fork seals were blown and the suspension bushes were worn. Cost £25.

The rear cowling was cracked, probably the result of a careless person trying to manoeuvre the bike.

The tank paint was tatty. Respray cost about £80.

Indicators failed to work. Broken wires inside the loom. Replaced the wires.

General Comments:

The RD125LC was the predecessor to the TZR125. The RD125LC mk2 and mk3 had TZR125 instruments, wheels, exhaust, forks and 'bars.

The exhaust note sounds beautiful and throaty with the standard exhaust system.

Yamaha have done well with this machine, with regard to the attention to detail. Everything fits well and the components are of high quality.

The engine employs a broad range of useful torque. The motor will pull well in sixth gear at 30mph.

The engine is responsive thanks to the YEIS (Yamaha Energy Induction System).

Many people who have owned a RD125LC, have informed me that they are capable of exceeding a "ton".

The ride is good with good damping from the forks.

Some of the components are a hassle to remove. For example, removal of air intake and carburettor requires removal of rear shock.

Maintenance in general is fairly easy.

Forks don`t need to be removed in order to change the oil. The engine is accessible without any dismantling work. Therefore carrying out the cable adjustments etc is a breeze.

The RD125LC may not be as glamorous as the latest Aprilias or Cagivas, but is a lot more durable and less expensive.