Yamaha Ray ZR 125: Zabardast Performance at 71 kmpl Mileage?
Are you in the market for a stylish and efficient 125cc scooter that offers a perfect blend of performance and fuel economy? The Yamaha Ray ZR 125 is on the top.
This sporty scooter has been turning heads since its launch, promising an exciting ride without breaking the bank. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Ray ZR 125 stand out in the competitive 125cc segment.
Design and Styling
The Yamaha Ray ZR 125 boasts a striking design that sets it apart from its competitors. Its aggressive front end features a unique LED DRL that gives the scooter a distinctive cyclops-like appearance. The apron is divided into matte plastic and gloss-paint panels, creating a visually interesting contrast.
Moving to the side, you’ll notice sporty panels that rake upwards, meeting a matte black section housing the tail-light. This design language continues throughout the scooter, giving it a cohesive and dynamic look. While some may find the styling over the top, it certainly catches the eye and appeals to those seeking a bold aesthetic.
Color options are plentiful, with eye-catching choices including:
- Metallic Black
- Cyan Blue
- Matte Red
- Racing Blue (Disc variant exclusive)
- Dark Matte Blue (Disc variant exclusive)
For those wanting an even sportier look, the Street Rally version offers exclusive colors like Matte Copper, Matte Black, and Light Grey Vermillion.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 lies a 125cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected Blue Core engine. This powerplant churns out 8.2 PS at 6,500 rpm and 10.3 Nm of torque at 5,000 rpm. While these figures might seem modest on paper, the Ray ZR’s low kerb weight of just 99 kg makes it one of the quickest scooters in its class.
The engine’s refinement is noteworthy, with minimal vibrations even at higher speeds. You’ll appreciate the smooth power delivery, making city commutes and occasional highway jaunts a breeze. The Ray ZR 125 can comfortably cruise at speeds of 80-90 km/h, with a claimed top speed of 91 km/h.
One of the standout features is the hybrid power assist technology. This system uses an electric motor to provide a small boost of power during initial acceleration, enhancing the scooter’s responsiveness and fuel efficiency. The Smart Motor Generator (SMG) also acts as a silent starter, adding to the premium feel of the scooter.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to mileage, the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 truly shines. Thanks to its hybrid technology and lightweight construction, this scooter delivers impressive fuel efficiency figures. Real-world tests have shown mileage of 66.23 kmpl in the city and 56.28 kmpl on the highway.
The scooter is equipped with an idle start-stop system, which cuts the engine power when idling for some time. This feature, combined with the hybrid assist, contributes to the Ray ZR’s excellent fuel economy. With a 5.2-liter fuel tank, you can expect a practical range of over 300 km on a single fill.
Ride and Handling
The Yamaha Ray ZR 125 offers a sporty riding experience, thanks to its lightweight frame and well-tuned suspension. The telescopic front forks and rear monoshock strike a good balance between comfort and handling. In city traffic, the light steering makes maneuvering a breeze, while it provides enough stability for confident highway cruising.
Braking duties are handled by a 190mm disc at the front and a 130mm drum at the rear for the disc variant, while the drum variant gets drum brakes on both ends. The Unified Braking System (UBS) ensures efficient braking force distribution, providing good stopping power and stability.
However, some riders have noted that the rear suspension can feel a bit soft, especially over larger bumps or speed breakers. Additionally, the seat’s angle and shape may tend to push you forward during hard braking, which could be improved for better long-distance comfort.
Features and Technology
Despite its competitive pricing, the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 doesn’t skimp on features. Some key highlights include:
- LED headlamp and position lamp
- Digital instrument cluster
- Bluetooth connectivity (on disc variant)
- Side stand engine cut-off switch
- 21-liter under-seat storage
- USB charging port
- Quiet starter system
The Bluetooth-enabled variant allows you to connect your smartphone to the scooter via the Y-Connect app. This provides access to features like call and SMS alerts, last parked location, and maintenance recommendations.
Variants and Pricing
The Yamaha Ray ZR 125 is available in multiple variants to cater to different budgets and preferences:
| Variant | Price (Ex-showroom, Delhi) |
|---|---|
| Drum | ₹82,730 |
| Disc | ₹94,830 |
| Street Rally | ₹95,830 |
The disc variant offers the added safety of a front disc brake, while the Street Rally version provides a more rugged and sporty appearance with additional features like knuckle guards.
Comparison with Rivals
The 125cc scooter segment is highly competitive, with strong contenders like the TVS Ntorq 125 and Honda Activa 125. Here’s how the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 stacks up against its rivals:
| Parameter | Yamaha Ray ZR 125 | TVS Ntorq 125 | Honda Activa 125 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 125cc, Fi Hybrid | 124.8cc, Fi | 124cc, Fi |
| Power | 8.2 PS | 9.5 PS | 8.19 PS |
| Torque | 10.3 Nm | 10.6 Nm | 10.4 Nm |
| Claimed Mileage | 71.33 kmpl | 47 kmpl | 60 kmpl |
| Price Range | ₹82,730 – ₹95,830 | ₹86,841 – ₹1,04,000 | ₹80,256 – ₹89,429 |
While the Ray ZR 125 may not have the highest power output in its class, it makes up for it with excellent fuel efficiency and a lightweight design. Its hybrid technology and competitive pricing make it a strong contender in the segment.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Q1. What is the real-world mileage of the Yamaha Ray ZR 125?
In real-world conditions, the Ray ZR 125 has been reported to deliver around 66 kmpl in city riding and 56 kmpl on highways. These figures may vary depending on riding conditions and style.
Q2. Does the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 have ABS?
The Ray ZR 125 doesn’t come with ABS. Instead, it features a Unified Braking System (UBS) which distributes braking force between the front and rear wheels for improved stability and stopping power.
Q3. What is the ground clearance of the Yamaha Ray ZR 125?
The Yamaha Ray ZR 125 has a ground clearance of 145mm, which is adequate for most urban road conditions and small speed bumps.
Q4. How does the Ray ZR 125’s hybrid system work?
The hybrid system in the Ray ZR 125 uses a Smart Motor Generator (SMG) to provide a power assist during initial acceleration. This helps improve fuel efficiency and provides a small boost in performance when starting from a stop.
Q5. Is the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 good for long rides?
While primarily designed for urban commuting, the Ray ZR 125 can handle occasional long rides. Its comfortable riding position and good fuel efficiency make it suitable for short trips. However, for regular long-distance touring, you might want to consider a larger capacity scooter or motorcycle.
Wrapping Up
The Yamaha Ray ZR 125 emerges as a compelling option in the 125cc scooter segment, offering a unique blend of style, performance, and efficiency. Its standout features include class-leading fuel economy, sporty handling, and eye-catching design. While it may not be the most powerful scooter in its class, the Ray ZR 125’s lightweight construction and hybrid technology make it a joy to ride in urban environments. If you’re looking for a scooter that combines head-turning looks with practical efficiency, the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 deserves a spot on your shortlist.
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