Kove KY125R debuts as a cheaper rival to Yamaha MT-125

Burgeoning Chinese marque Kove will expand its UK range with the introduction of its new low capacity, learner legal naked, the Kove KY125R.

The small displacement model represents a new entry point for Kove, which debuted in the UK this year offering the mid-range 510X and larger 800X Pro and Standard models as a starter.

With an emphasis placed on value, the Kove KY125R comes in at a starting price of £3,499 and is equipped with a single-sided swingarm, 41mm upside down forks, ABS and a large LCD display as standard, while it is also offered with a two-year warranty and after-sales plan.

It means the Kove KY125R undercuts the majority of its rivals in the high volume 125cc naked sector with the Yamaha MT-125 costing £5,250 and the KTM 125 Duke priced at £4,899 by comparison.

“We are delighted to bring the KY125R to the UK,” said Lee Westbrook of Kove UK.

“Following the introduction of our adventure range of models earlier this year, the 125 is an extremely important addition, which we hope will bring new riders into the Kove family as they begin their riding career.

“Like every Kove product, the KY125R offers exceptional performance and specification at a very aggressive price, bringing a very credible new option to the market.”

One of several new brands originating out of China to make headway in the European motorcycle market in recent years, the Kove brand has nonetheless distinguished itself from the likes of CFMoto and Voge by earning publicity with its success on the motorsport scene.

Having already made its debut on the gruelling Dakar Rally, the manufacturer has also enjoyed race winning success in the WorldSBK-supporting WorldSSP 300 Championship with its European market-only Kove 321RR sportsbike.