1974 Yamaha TA125

Lot details
Registration No: N/A
Frame No: AS3990166
Engine No: T.B.A.
cc: 125
MOT Expiry Date: N/A

During the 1972 season Charles Mortimer and Kent Andersson campaigned a new 125cc machine that effectively served as a prototype for the following seasons over the counter racer. The TA125, when it was announced, did not benefit from the liquid cooling employed by the newly introduced TZ series, clearly being derived from the air cooled, road going AS3 with which it shared engine dimensions of 43 x 43 mm, although the cylinders were chromium plated and the porting was revised. Credited with developing 24bhp at 12,500 rpm the new machine employed a five speed gearbox instead of the six speed unit employed by the "works" bikes. The front forks were derived from those fitted to the CS3 twin and the front brake was similar to that employed on the DS6.

The example offered was purchased by the vendor in Japan in need of restoration which he subsequently carried out to an exceptional standard. It should be noted that there is currently no crankshaft fitted to the machine; however, a usable, reconditioned assembly together with a damaged one suitable for spares are included. The machine is fitted with a non standard front mudguard and rear suspension units. The latter are however Yamaha units and are believed to have come from a 50cc Yamaha race bike built for the late Bill Ivy to race, but in fact never used. It is accompanied by a number of parts in addition to the crankshafts previously referred to including a new fairing and screen, pistons, new rods, big end assemblies, clutch plates, an alternative gear cluster, used, but good cylinders.