Italian manufacturer Fantic has unveiled its 2021 XE125 and XX125 off-road models, which unfortunately won't be coming to Australia at this point.
The motocross-focused Fantic XX125 and enduro-ready XE125 are based on the Yamaha YZ125 but undergo significant changes unique to the Italian firm.
XE125
Engine
The “power unit” of the XE 125 Enduro – The Yamaha 125cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke single-cylinder engine – compared to the Cross version, features an enduro designed cylinder-head, with a lower compression ratio and the CDI control unit has a dedicated mapping for Enduro use.
The engine also differs, as is equipped with an oversized generator to supply a 12V battery.
Exhaust
The exhaust of the XE 125 has been developed in collaboration with Arrow. The development delivers a new expansion system designed specifically for Enduro use, optimised particularly at low revs.
The system is designed for torque at low RPM and excellent rider feedback even in the most technical and challenging sections.
The silencer, manufactured with new development in sound deadening material, is approximately 100mm longer than that of the Cross version.
Chassis
Chassis, suspension, rims, hubs, brakes The chassis of the new XE 125 is an aluminium semi-double cradle.
The Kayaba (KYB) 48mm SSS forks, with 300mm of travel and Enduro settings, specifically designed by our Racing department, adapt to various riding styles; beginners or professionals, the suspension provides performance at the highest level. The KYB monoshock, with 315mm wheel travel, is separately adjustable for preload, compression and rebound.
The swingarm is made of alloy, the DID rims with sizes 21 x 1.60 – 18 x 2.15 are fitted with Dunlop Geomax EN91 tyres 90/90-21” & 120/90-18’’. Standard gear ratio 13:50. The braking department is by Nissin; power and control for both front and rear, with 270mm disc on the front and 245mm on the rear.
Ergonomics
Fantic has squeezed a 9-litre fuel tank into the frame, up from the YZ125’s 8-litre tank.
The radiator covers are designed to guarantee ample movement and control of the motorcycle. The seat has a high grip cover, allowing the rider to feel at one with the bike. The standard LED headlight ensures great visibility even at night.
XX125
Engine
The Yamaha 2-stroke 125cc engine – has been significantly modified. The 125cc developed by Fantic demonstrates a perfect balance between linearity of use from low to medium RPM, accompanied by a significant explosion of power in the high rev range.
The CDI control unit, developed directly by the Fantic Racing department, guarantees perfect combustion at every RPM. The expansion pipe by Arrow, is specifically designed for MX use at high RPM. An aluminium silencer body and the Mikuni TMX 38mm carburettor complete the technical package of the engine.
Working on the optimisation of the engine, exhaust and control unit management, a performance has been achieved, that puts the new XX 125 at the top of its category.
Dynamics
The frame is an aluminium semi-double-cradle design, which guarantees high levels of rigidity and lightness.
Kayaba’s (KYB) suspension has been the benchmark in the off-road world for years and needs no introduction. KYB SSS (Speed Sensitive System) 48mm forks have 300mm of travel and are fully adjustable. These adapt to different levels of riding, from beginner to race professional; and provide the pro riders with excellent adaptability for differing conditions. The mono shock absorber is also KYB, with 315mm wheel travel.
Brakes are by Nissin, delivering power and control for both front and rear, with a 270mm disc at the front and a 245mm disc at the rear. The equipment is completed by Excel 21 x 1.60 – 19 x 1.85 rims, on which Dunlop MX 80/100-21 – 100/90-19 series tyres are mounted. Standard gear ratio is 13:48.
