1985 Yamaha RD125LC MK2 review from United Kingdom
"Maybe old, but still good."
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
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.
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1985 |
| Year of manufacture | 1985 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Acceleration marks | 8 / 10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Handling marks | 8 / 10 |
| Braking marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 33000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 33500 miles |
| Date of Entry | 18th June, 2005 |