BREAKING NEWS: Yamaha Reintroduces the Legendary YZ125 After 1988 Ban — Now Revived and Racing Again
May 17, 2025 — Motocross World Headquarter
In a stunning move that blends nostalgia with modern performance, Yamaha has officially reintroduced the legendary YZ125 two-stroke motocross bike— decades after the original model was banned in 1988 following the tragic death of a rising star. The return of the YZ125 has sparked major buzz across the motocross community, as both collectors and racers embrace its historic comeback.
The 2026 Yamaha YZ125 is being marketed as a limited-edition reissue, modernized with today’s technology but staying true to the iconic 1980s spirit that made it a racing icon. The launch model, retailing for \$25,450, comes with two free upgrades — a racing-tuned exhaust system and a premium KYB front suspension upgrade kit, making it track-ready straight out of the crate.
This reissue marks the first time Yamaha has brought back the model in its original spirit since it was pulled from the market in 1988, following a fatal crash involving then-top racer Mark Fenley at a European Grand Prix. The tragic incident led to a ban of the model from certain racing circuits, and the YZ125 became a symbol of both brilliance and heartbreak.
But now, nearly four decades later, Yamaha believes the time is right for a respectful, responsible return.
> “This isn’t just about bringing back a bike — it’s about honoring its legacy while making it safer, faster, and smarter for today’s riders,” said Yamaha Motorsports Product Manager Elena Matsuda. “The 2026 YZ125 combines old-school soul with new-school precision.”
The announcement comes just ahead of the 2025 Motocross World Championship, where a factory-backed rider will be the first to race the new YZ125 on the international stage. The rider — whose identity is expected to be revealed in the coming days — will pilot the bike in select 125cc class events as part of a global marketing and performance validation campaign.
Meanwhile, fans and collectors are already restoring classic YZ125s in celebration of the relaunch. One enthusiast, who’s been working on a budget restoration of an original 1985 model, said the timing couldn’t be better.
> “I’ve been rebuilding this bike in my garage for months. It’s nearly done — just needs some final jetting tweaks — and then it’s ready to ride,” he shared. “To see Yamaha bring it back officially, after all these years? It’s incredible.”
Early reviews from industry insiders who’ve test-ridden the 2026 model report an impressive blend of classic two-stroke power with smooth modern handling. The reissue features:
A redesigned 125cc liquid-cooled two-stroke engine
Updated 6-speed transmission
Lightweight aluminum frame
Race-tuned suspension
Electric start and digital dash
With limited numbers available globally, Yamaha expects the bike to sell out within weeks,especially as word spreads that dealerships are already taking pre-orders.
In a sport where legacy matters as much as speed, the return of the YZ125 is more than a product launch — it’s a resurrection of a motocross legend.
