For 2023, Yamaha’s two-stroke off-road cross-country models, the YZ125X and YZ250X, both received noteworthy updates.
Of the two, the 125X sees the most changes, mostly to the engine. According to Yamaha, “every functional part of the engine is new.” This is the first major update for the 125X since its debut in 2020.
Changes to the YZ250X are more subtle. Yamaha says it has “improved ergonomics” and, performance-wise, improved “low-to-midrange pulling power.”
Introduced in 2020, the YZ125X was conceived to bolster Yamaha’s Cross Country lineup while offering passionate two-stroke enthusiasts a dedicated enduro racer. In the first major update for the model, the all-new 2023 YZ125X reflects many of the extensive changes recently rolled out for the current competition-ready YZ125 motocross model, ensuring a high level of performance, but also incorporates a number of additional key modifications aimed specifically at boosting capability for rigorous, long distance, multi-terrain cross country racing. The result is a powerful, featherweight class-leading two-stroke woods racer that represents the ideal step up for young enthusiasts looking to enter into cross country competition or for seasoned riders, a supremely capable, lightweight and reliable two-stroke.
It all starts with a more powerful liquid-cooled 125cc two-stroke engine. Every functional part of the engine is new, including the cylinder, cylinder head, piston, piston pin, connecting rod, crankcase and expansion chamber all adding up to increased power. To enhance the YZ125X’s performance in varied terrain and over long race distances, features including Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS) characteristics, exhaust timing and compression ratio have been optimized to improve ease-of-use in the low- to mid-rpm range. Further enhancing fueling and power delivery, a new high-precision Hitachi Astemo Keihin PWK38S carburetor with throttle position sensor and 3D-map-controlled CDI unit provide clean, crisp throttle response. A new intake design with VForce4 carbon reed valve and a straighter intake path result in an improved feeling of power in the high rpm range.
To match increased engine performance, an updated braking system features larger front pistons, more rigid caliper, and a redesigned 270mm front rotor with a 30% increase in pad contact area, all combining to provide exceptional braking power and feel. A redesigned rear rotor maintains the same braking power while dropping outer diameter from 245mm to 240mm, reducing unsprung weight without compromising performance.
Taking the YZ125X’s category-defining suspension and handling characteristics to a new level, front and rear suspension damping has been revised to further improve bump absorption and cornering performance. Best-in-class KYB suspension includes a fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System 48mm inverted front fork, now with new internals for more precise damping. Revised fully adjustable KYB rear shock features reduced-friction Kashima Coat internals, separate adjusters for high- and low-speed compression damping and a full lock oil rebound system for increased comfort. Additionally, front and rear settings are fine-tuned to handle the types of demanding and varied environments commonly encountered in cross-country competition.
To increase rider confidence in challenging conditions, a new flatter seat and more narrow fuel tank design, along with smoothly integrated body panels and slimmer radiator shroud width all combine to enhance freedom of movement forward and back, allowing the rider to easily shift body weight for increased control. Emphasizing its YZ racing pedigree, new front and rear fender design, bold Yamaha Blue and dark blue colorway, and premium embedded graphics provide a sharp, aggressive new look with excellent durability and scratch resistance.
Additional features on the 2023 YZ125X include premium lightweight blue Excel rims wrapped in high-performance Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires, along with cross country oriented 18-inch rear wheel, larger rear sprocket, standard aluminum side stand, reserve fuel petcock, sealed O-ring chain, and a newly adopted scraper between the fork’s dust and oil seal for improved reliability in rugged conditions. Together, it all adds up to the perfect GNCC racer straight out of the box.
2023 YZ125X Features & Benefits
The all-new 2023 YZ125X will be available from dealers this September in Team Yamaha Blue for $7099 MSRP.
At the top of Yamaha’s two-stroke Cross Country range, the light and powerful YZ250X provides two-stroke enthusiasts with the ultimate open-class XC racer. Already known for its strong acceleration, plush suspension, class-leading handling and rider-friendly character, significant updates for 2023 incorporate similar changes made to the Yamaha’s current YZ250 motocrosser to improve on key areas and provide an even more competitive, well-rounded package.
Rider ergonomics are more narrow and substantially improved through new, smoothly integrated body panels, slimmer shroud width and flatter seat. These changes allow greater freedom of movement front to back and easier weight transfer for improved control. Along with the slimmer, more aggressive bodywork, a new front and rear fender design and a sharp new graphics scheme highlight the race-focused YZ lineage. Premium graphics are now embedded to provide improved durability and scratch resistance. Additionally, updates to the seat and bodywork also enabled a new, straighter intake design, allowing a more efficient intake path to the engine for improved low- to midrange pulling power.
The YZ250X’s class-leading suspension performance improves with revised front and rear damping characteristics to enhance bump absorption and cornering agility. Fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB 48mm inverted front fork receives new internals and newly adopted scraper between the dust and oil seal for improved reliability, while the revised fully adjustable KYB rear shock features reduced-friction Kashima Coat internals. Settings are specifically tuned to meet the harsh demands of cross-country competition.
A revamped high performance brake setup provides exceptional braking power and feel with a more rigid front caliper, larger front pistons and redesigned 270mm front rotor that increases pad contact area. A redesigned rear rotor drops the outer diameter from 245mm to 240mm, reducing unsprung weight with no compromise on performance.
The 2023 YZ250X uses the same fast and fun liquid-cooled YPVS-equipped 249cc two-stroke powerplant as its YZ250 brethren, but with YPVS characteristics, exhaust timing and compression ratio optimized to improve ease-of-use in the low- to mid-rpm range for improved cross-country performance. Additionally, clutch durability is enhanced through a new friction material with excellent heat resistance characteristics ideal for long distance racing, without compromising on smooth operation.
Finally, premium lightweight Excel wheels combine with high performance Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires, cross country oriented 18-inch rear wheel size, wide-ratio gearing, standard aluminum side stand, sealed O-ring chain and a reserve fuel petcock to complete the ideal high performance two-stroke XC competition machine.
2023 YZ250X Features & Benefits
The new 2023 YZ250X will be available from dealers this August in Team Yamaha Blue for $7999 MSRP.
The remainder of Yamaha’s Cross Country lineup, including the YZ250FX, YZ450FX, WR250F and WR450F all return unchanged for 2023. CN
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