1982 Yamaha YZ125
Only 1 in stock
CALL OR TEXT JR. (860) 471-0192
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Description
1982 Yamaha YZ125
Stunning Frame-Off Restoration
Liquid-Cooled | YPVS | 185 PSI Compression
A Museum Quality Classic, Runs Like New!
"The Class of 1982."
The finest 1982 Yamaha YZ125 currently For sale in the United States.
This iconic liquid-cooled YZ represents one of the most significant advancements in motocross history, featuring Yamaha's revolutionary YPVS (Yamaha Power Valve System), liquid cooling, long-travel Monocross suspension, and performance that made it feel like a factory works machine.
This motorcycle has undergone a no-expense-spared, concours-quality frame-off restoration performed by Kaplan Cycles. More than 62 hours of professional shop labor were invested in this project, along with over $2,000 in premium parts, totaling over $11,300 invested in the restoration alone.
The result is a motorcycle that looks, rides, and performs as close to new as you'll find today.
Highlights
-
Professionally Restored from the frame up
-
Original & Mint Matching Numbers Frame & Engine Cases
-
Pristine Frame Rails
-
185 PSI compression
-
Liquid-cooled two-stroke engine
-
Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS)
-
Monocross rear suspension
-
Approximately 12 inches of suspension travel
-
Original factory exhaust system
-
Original wheels dated December 1981
-
Original radiator in exceptional condition
-
Original hubs, swingarm and major cycle components retained
-
Starts easily, shifts flawlessly and runs exceptionally strong
This YZ125 absolutely rips. The engine pulls hard throughout the powerband, shifts perfectly, and the clutch engagement is excellent. It is exactly what enthusiasts remember these legendary YZs for.
Restoration Details
This motorcycle was completely disassembled and restored from the ground up.
Chassis
The restoration began with an exceptionally clean California survivor featuring remarkably preserved frame rails and engine cases.
The frame was:
-
Professionally sandblasted
-
Powder coated to factory specifications
-
Reassembled with all linkage serviced
-
Bearings inspected, cleaned and lubricated or replaced as required
The underside of the frame rails and engine cases remain virtually flawless—a testament to the quality of the original motorcycle before restoration.
Front Suspension
The front end received comprehensive service including:
-
Fork rebuild
-
New fork seals
-
Fresh fork oil
-
New fork boots
-
Air forks serviced and functioning properly
-
Steering head bearings cleaned, greased and serviced
The triple clamps were vapor honed and refinished, giving them a factory-fresh appearance.
Wheels & Tires
Both original Yamaha wheels remain with the motorcycle.
The wheels still have the December 1981 manufacturing date, confirming originality.
Work performed includes:
-
Vapor-honed hubs / Correct black hub refinishing
-
Spokes cleaned and adjusted
-
New rim strips & New tubes
-
New Dunlop tires
-
Wheel bearings inspected and serviced
New components include:
-
Renthal handlebars
-
Period-correct Yamaha crossbar pad
-
ODI grips
-
Clutch perch and lever
-
Front brake lever and perch
-
Front brake cable
-
New throttle tube
Everything operates smoothly and feels tight throughout.
Fuel Tank
Rather than repainting a faded plastic tank, we sourced an outstanding replacement.
Installed is a brand-new handmade aluminum fuel tank from Red 64 Racing in the United Kingdom.
The tank was professionally powder coated in the correct factory Yamaha yellow before installation, providing durability far beyond painted plastic.
The Powder Coating is not as smooth as clear coated paint but is 5x more durable.
Bodywork
New components include:
-
Front fender / Rear Fender
-
Side Number Plate panels
-
Seat foam & Seat cover
The motorcycle also features a premium Staiger Designs graphics kit, professionally installed for exceptional fit and finish.
Cooling System
The original radiator is in outstanding condition.
As many YZ enthusiasts know, the original routing through the frame could become problematic. During restoration, the cooling system was updated using the well-known enthusiast modification that routes the hose directly to the engine, eliminating the factory weak point while maintaining reliability.
Rear Suspension
The original rear shock was:
-
Cleaned / Serviced / Refinished
The original reservoir decal and gold anodizing were intentionally preserved to maintain authenticity.
Additional work includes:
-
New Monocross decal
-
New chain rollers
-
Swingarm serviced
-
Swingarm bearings inspected and tightened
-
Wheel bearings checked
-
Original foot pegs remain perfectly straight
-
New gold chain
-
New countershaft sprocket
-
New rear sprocket
-
New hardware throughout
Everything operates exactly as it should.
Engine
The engine was professionally refreshed and inspected throughout.
Work performed includes:
-
New piston
-
New rings
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
Carburetor completely rebuilt
-
Jets cleaned
-
New fuel lines
-
New drain lines
-
New intake seal
-
New reed valves
-
New air filter
-
Airbox cleaned inside and out
-
Engine cases vapor honed
-
Engine covers refinished
-
Cylinder refinished
-
Hardware restored
Compression currently measures an impressive 185 PSI, and the motorcycle runs exceptionally strong.
The crank bearings and crank seals were inspected and found to be within specification.
Original Exhaust
One of the most remarkable features of this motorcycle is its original factory exhaust system.
Finding an original YZ125 pipe on an early-'80s motocross bike is incredibly rare.
This pipe remains in excellent condition with only a few very minor cosmetic dings underneath—hardly noticeable—and performs exactly as intended.
-
Excellent original core components
-
Correct restoration techniques
-
Premium parts
-
Powder-coated chassis
-
Handmade aluminum tank
-
Professional graphics
-
Extensive mechanical restoration
Suitable for a serious Yamaha collection, museum display, vintage racing collection, or investment.
Investment Summary
-
62 professional shop hours invested
-
$9,300 labor
-
Over $2,000 in premium restoration parts
-
More than $11,300 invested in the restoration
This total does not include project management, sourcing rare international components, inspection, restoration planning, or countless hours ensuring every detail met Kaplan Cycles' standards.
Final Thoughts
After restoring thousands of vintage motorcycles over several decades, we can confidently say these 1982 YZ125s are becoming exceptionally difficult to find—especially complete, unmodified examples with original components like this one.
Finding another restored to this standard would be extremely difficult.
If you're looking for one of the finest examples available, your search can end here.
Nationwide Shipping Available
We can assist with affordable nationwide shipping.
Questions?
Call Kaplan Cycles at 860-454-7024.
Don't wait—rare motorcycles of this caliber seldom remain available for long.
Buy with confidence from Kaplan Cycles, America's premier vintage motorcycle restoration specialists.
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
Wheels
1982 Yamaha YZ125
Stunning Frame-Off Restoration
Liquid-Cooled | YPVS | 185 PSI Compression
A Museum Quality Classic, Runs Like New!
"The Class of 1982."
The finest 1982 Yamaha YZ125 currently For sale in the United States.
This iconic liquid-cooled YZ represents one of the most significant advancements in motocross history, featuring Yamaha's revolutionary YPVS (Yamaha Power Valve System), liquid cooling, long-travel Monocross suspension, and performance that made it feel like a factory works machine.
This motorcycle has undergone a no-expense-spared, concours-quality frame-off restoration performed by Kaplan Cycles. More than 62 hours of professional shop labor were invested in this project, along with over $2,000 in premium parts, totaling over $11,300 invested in the restoration alone.
The result is a motorcycle that looks, rides, and performs as close to new as you'll find today.
Highlights
-
Professionally Restored from the frame up
-
Original & Mint Matching Numbers Frame & Engine Cases
-
Pristine Frame Rails
-
185 PSI compression
-
Liquid-cooled two-stroke engine
-
Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS)
-
Monocross rear suspension
-
Approximately 12 inches of suspension travel
-
Original factory exhaust system
-
Original wheels dated December 1981
-
Original radiator in exceptional condition
-
Original hubs, swingarm and major cycle components retained
-
Starts easily, shifts flawlessly and runs exceptionally strong
This YZ125 absolutely rips. The engine pulls hard throughout the powerband, shifts perfectly, and the clutch engagement is excellent. It is exactly what enthusiasts remember these legendary YZs for.
Restoration Details
This motorcycle was completely disassembled and restored from the ground up.
Chassis
The restoration began with an exceptionally clean California survivor featuring remarkably preserved frame rails and engine cases.
The frame was:
-
Professionally sandblasted
-
Powder coated to factory specifications
-
Reassembled with all linkage serviced
-
Bearings inspected, cleaned and lubricated or replaced as required
The underside of the frame rails and engine cases remain virtually flawless—a testament to the quality of the original motorcycle before restoration.
Front Suspension
The front end received comprehensive service including:
-
Fork rebuild
-
New fork seals
-
Fresh fork oil
-
New fork boots
-
Air forks serviced and functioning properly
-
Steering head bearings cleaned, greased and serviced
The triple clamps were vapor honed and refinished, giving them a factory-fresh appearance.
Wheels & Tires
Both original Yamaha wheels remain with the motorcycle.
The wheels still have the December 1981 manufacturing date, confirming originality.
Work performed includes:
-
Vapor-honed hubs / Correct black hub refinishing
-
Spokes cleaned and adjusted
-
New rim strips & New tubes
-
New Dunlop tires
-
Wheel bearings inspected and serviced
New components include:
-
Renthal handlebars
-
Period-correct Yamaha crossbar pad
-
ODI grips
-
Clutch perch and lever
-
Front brake lever and perch
-
Front brake cable
-
New throttle tube
Everything operates smoothly and feels tight throughout.
Fuel Tank
Rather than repainting a faded plastic tank, we sourced an outstanding replacement.
Installed is a brand-new handmade aluminum fuel tank from Red 64 Racing in the United Kingdom.
The tank was professionally powder coated in the correct factory Yamaha yellow before installation, providing durability far beyond painted plastic.
The Powder Coating is not as smooth as clear coated paint but is 5x more durable.
Bodywork
New components include:
-
Front fender / Rear Fender
-
Side Number Plate panels
-
Seat foam & Seat cover
The motorcycle also features a premium Staiger Designs graphics kit, professionally installed for exceptional fit and finish.
Cooling System
The original radiator is in outstanding condition.
As many YZ enthusiasts know, the original routing through the frame could become problematic. During restoration, the cooling system was updated using the well-known enthusiast modification that routes the hose directly to the engine, eliminating the factory weak point while maintaining reliability.
Rear Suspension
The original rear shock was:
-
Cleaned / Serviced / Refinished
The original reservoir decal and gold anodizing were intentionally preserved to maintain authenticity.
Additional work includes:
-
New Monocross decal
-
New chain rollers
-
Swingarm serviced
-
Swingarm bearings inspected and tightened
-
Wheel bearings checked
-
Original foot pegs remain perfectly straight
-
New gold chain
-
New countershaft sprocket
-
New rear sprocket
-
New hardware throughout
Everything operates exactly as it should.
Engine
The engine was professionally refreshed and inspected throughout.
Work performed includes:
-
New piston
-
New rings
-
New base gasket
-
New head gasket
-
Carburetor completely rebuilt
-
Jets cleaned
-
New fuel lines
-
New drain lines
-
New intake seal
-
New reed valves
-
New air filter
-
Airbox cleaned inside and out
-
Engine cases vapor honed
-
Engine covers refinished
-
Cylinder refinished
-
Hardware restored
Compression currently measures an impressive 185 PSI, and the motorcycle runs exceptionally strong.
The crank bearings and crank seals were inspected and found to be within specification.
Original Exhaust
One of the most remarkable features of this motorcycle is its original factory exhaust system.
Finding an original YZ125 pipe on an early-'80s motocross bike is incredibly rare.
This pipe remains in excellent condition with only a few very minor cosmetic dings underneath—hardly noticeable—and performs exactly as intended.
-
Excellent original core components
-
Correct restoration techniques
-
Premium parts
-
Powder-coated chassis
-
Handmade aluminum tank
-
Professional graphics
-
Extensive mechanical restoration
Suitable for a serious Yamaha collection, museum display, vintage racing collection, or investment.
Investment Summary
-
62 professional shop hours invested
-
$9,300 labor
-
Over $2,000 in premium restoration parts
-
More than $11,300 invested in the restoration
This total does not include project management, sourcing rare international components, inspection, restoration planning, or countless hours ensuring every detail met Kaplan Cycles' standards.
Final Thoughts
After restoring thousands of vintage motorcycles over several decades, we can confidently say these 1982 YZ125s are becoming exceptionally difficult to find—especially complete, unmodified examples with original components like this one.
Finding another restored to this standard would be extremely difficult.
If you're looking for one of the finest examples available, your search can end here.
Nationwide Shipping Available
We can assist with affordable nationwide shipping.
Questions?
Call Kaplan Cycles at 860-454-7024.
Don't wait—rare motorcycles of this caliber seldom remain available for long.
Buy with confidence from Kaplan Cycles, America's premier vintage motorcycle restoration specialists.
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
