A fresh looking and connected 2021 Yamaha NMAX 125 is revealed
The best-selling two-wheeler from Iwata gets updated as the 2021 Yamaha NMAX 125 gains refreshed styling and Bluetooth connectivity
THE 2021 Yamaha NMAX 125 has been revealed featuring a raft of updates for the class-leading model.
With more and more commuters moving away from public transport and on to more socially distanced and safe form of getting around, the scooter market looks set to see yet more growth in 2021.
One model that is sure to be at the top of many rider’s shopping list is the Yamaha NMAX 125. It’s managed to look cool and funky enough for the youngsters, but with a high enough level of spec to attract more well-heeled and mature riders too.
For 2021, Yamaha’s best selling new motorcycle is seeing significant updates – here is everything you need to know.
Styling
For 2021 the styling of the NMAX has evolved, with the bodywork looking sleeker and slightly less angular than before. The updated front end houses new twin LED headlights and a DRL, with new taillights and indicators also featuring on the bike. Yamaha is also claiming that the new nose enhances wind and rain protection and that improved aerodynamics will reduce wind noise while riding.
Chassis
The chassis of the NMAX has seen updates for 2021, with the revised frame allowing the bike to carry a larger 11 litre fuel tank. The extra capacity, 4.4 litres more than the previous model, is giving the machine a claimed 310-mile range between fill-ups, with the updated frame and fuel tank placement also improving the mass centralisation of the bike.
Engine featuring ‘Start & Stop’ technology
The NMAX’s 125cc liquid-cooled four-valve engine has also been updated for 2021, with Euro5 certification being at the top of the list. Key to gaining that all-important certification was the Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) that was first featured on this model in 2015. It features a special intake camshaft that consists of two cam lobes, one that is ideal for low to mid-rpm, and one that is ideal for high rpm running. The system automatically switches to the cam lobe that is best suited to the current riding application.
A new feature of the 2021 NMAX 125 is the inclusion of Yamaha’s Start & Stop technology. As the name suggests, the system cuts the engine when the bike comes to a halt – for red traffic lights for instance, instantly restarting the engine again when the brakes are released, and the throttle is turned. The system should not only help with local pollution levels but could also provide a handy saving on the rider’s fuel bill over long periods of time. For those that would prefer to not use the system, it can be switched off altogether.
2021 Yamaha NMAX 125 gets Bluetooth connectivity
The new NMAX is the first scooter from Yamaha to feature the firm’s Simple Communication Control Unit (SCCU) and Bluetooth connectivity. The system allows riders to connect their phones (once they have the Yamaha MyRide app), and view the condition of the bike including battery condition, oil status, fuel consumption, and more. There’s even a parking locator that enables the rider to nd their NMAX using the phone’s last connected location.
The MyRide app also gives owners the Ride & Record function, allowing them to records data such as lean angle, acceleration, speed, distance, and more from previous rides. Data can then be shared with other MyRide users, and new riding routes can be discovered and shared.
Colours and availability
The new 2021 will be available in Anodized Red, Phantom Blue, and Power Grey. Bikes should be landing in dealerships from February 2021 and pricing is as yet TBC.
Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
