Here’s the first spy image of Yamaha’s newest product for India – the Saluto 125 motorcycle. The new 125cc motorcycle is another attempt from the Japanese two-wheeler maker to crack the commuter segment. While these are not the kind of products we exactly expect from the brand, the all-important commuter segment cannot be overlooked in this market.
By the looks of it, the Saluto doesn’t seem to have anything special up its sleeve. It follows the done-to-death template of every other motorcycle in the segment. A bikini fairing, alloy wheels, contrasting side panels, comfortable riding position with a long, wide seat and twin suspension set-up at the rear.
The graphics on the motorcycle are minimal as compared to some other similar products. The sides of the tank are left bare with only the Yamaha Tuning Forks emblem adorning them. We see a contrasting black strip on top of the tank flanked by what seems like a golden lining.
Engine is painted all-black, side panel is finished in light satin titanium, and so are the big grab rails. Big curvaceous RVMs, five spoke alloy wheels, ‘Saluto’ badging on the rear panel and all-black rear springs are a few other notable details – though there’s nothing even remotely spectacular there.
As mentioned before, the Saluto will compete in the 125cc segment and will either replace or sit above the SS125 – Yamaha’s current contender in the category.
Power is derived from the same 125cc mill that propels the SS125 and YBR 125 motorcycles from the bikemaker. Power and torque output is expected at about 11PS and 10.5 Nm respectively, though hardly anyone cares about those specs in this segment. The engine will be mated to a 5-speeder unit and may be tuned for better efficiency than the exiting Yamaha motorcycles in the segment.
Expect an April 2015 launch with a price tag of Rs 60-62K or thereabouts.
Stay tuned for more updates, as they emerge. In the meantime, do let us know about your thoughts on this new Yamaha 125
Image courtesy: Motorbeam