Complete Technical Specifications
When it comes to the ultimate commuter debate, the Honda CD70 vs Yamaha YB125Z comparison represents two completely different philosophies. And thousands of Pakistani riders are stuck choosing between them every month.
Market Positioning: The Honda CD70 (officially sold by Atlas Honda) has been on Pakistan's roads since 1984. It is the most-sold motorcycle in the country's history. The Yamaha YB 125Z (by Yamaha Motor Pakistan) is its biggest challenger in the commuter segment — a 125cc machine that offers noticeably more engine, more features, and a significantly different riding experience.
Pricing Reality: The problem is that these two bikes are not really in the same category. The CD70 costs Rs. 159,900. The Yamaha YB 125Z is priced at approximately Rs. 370,000–390,000 depending on variant and dealer. One is under Rs. 1.6 lakh; the other is close to Rs. 4 lakh.
This article gives you the straight answer, backed by real specs, real fuel costs at April 2026 petrol prices, and honest maintenance realities.
Honda CD70 vs Yamaha YB125Z: Full Specs Comparison
| Feature | Honda CD70 2026 | Yamaha YB 125Z 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Price (ex-factory) | Rs. 159,900 | Rs. 370,000–390,000 |
| Engine | 72cc, 4-stroke OHC, air-cooled | 124cc, 4-stroke SOHC, air-cooled |
| Bore × Stroke | 47.0 × 41.4 mm | 54.0 × 54.0 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Transmission | 4-speed constant mesh | 5-speed constant mesh |
| Starting | Kick start only | Electric + kick start |
| Claimed Fuel Average | 60–70 km/l | 42–52 km/l |
| Real-World Fuel Average | 55–62 km/l | 40–47 km/l |
| Fuel Tank | 9.5 litres | 13 litres |
| Dry Weight | 82 kg | 107–118 kg |
| Seat Height | 755 mm | 770 mm |
| Front Brake | Drum | Drum (DX variant: disc) |
| Rear Brake | Drum | Drum |
| Tyres (Front) | 2.25-17 | 2.75-17 |
| Tyres (Rear) | 2.50-17 | 90/90-18 |
| Colors | Red, Black, Blue | Red, Black, Gray |
| Speedometer | Analogue | Analogue with fuel gauge |
Price: What You're Actually Paying
Affordability: At Rs. 159,900, the Honda CD70 is one of the most affordable motorcycles you can buy new in Pakistan today. For a complete breakdown of Honda's full model lineup and updated pricing, see our Honda bike price in Pakistan guide.
Market Variance: The Yamaha YB 125Z sits at approximately Rs. 370,000–390,000 for the base variant, with the YB 125Z-DX (which adds front disc brakes and alloy rims) pushing to Rs. 420,000–460,000. These prices have increased significantly over the past two years, largely due to import duties and currency fluctuations.
Ownership Implication: In the Honda CD70 vs Yamaha YB125Z comparison, what this means practically is: you could buy two Honda CD70s for the price of one Yamaha YB 125Z, with money to spare.
Fuel Average: The Monthly Petrol Bill Reality
With petrol currently at Rs. 366.58 per litre (as of April 11, 2026), the fuel average of your bike directly determines how much you spend every month.
Calculations: Let's use a real commuter scenario: 35 km per day, 30 days a month = 1,050 km/month.
Honda CD70: Monthly Fuel Cost
Fuel Efficiency: The CD70's real-world fuel average is approximately 55–60 km/l. We'll use 57 km/l.
- Litres consumed: 1,050 ÷ 57 = 18.4 litres
- Petrol cost: 18.4 × Rs. 366.58 = Rs. 6,745/month
Yamaha YB 125Z: Monthly Fuel Cost
Fuel Efficiency: The YB 125Z's real-world city average is approximately 42–44 km/l. We'll use 43 km/l.
- Litres consumed: 1,050 ÷ 43 = 24.4 litres
- Petrol cost: 24.4 × Rs. 366.58 = Rs. 8,944/month
| Honda CD70 | Yamaha YB 125Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Real fuel average | 57 km/l | 43 km/l |
| Litres per month | 18.4 L | 24.4 L |
| Monthly petrol cost | Rs. 6,745 | Rs. 8,944 |
Financial Impact: The Yamaha YB 125Z costs you approximately Rs. 2,200 more per month in fuel — that's Rs. 26,000 extra per year.
Maintenance Cost: Who's Cheaper to Keep?
Efficiency Advantage: This is where the Honda CD70 builds its strongest argument.
Honda CD70 Maintenance
Simplicity: The CD70 uses one of the simplest engine designs in Pakistan. Parts are universal, mechanics everywhere know it by heart, and genuine Atlas Honda parts are widely available.
- Engine oil change: Rs. 1,000–1,200 (every 1,500–2,000 km)
- Air filter: Rs. 200–350 (every 6 months)
- Drive chain: Rs. 1,200–1,800 (every 10,000–15,000 km)
- Tyres: Rs. 1,500–2,000 each
- Annual service estimate: Rs. 6,000–9,000
Yamaha YB 125Z Maintenance
Complexity: The YB 125Z is a solid bike, but spare parts cost more and availability outside major cities is limited. The 125cc engine is more complex and requires larger fluid capacities.
- Engine oil change: Rs. 1,500–1,800 (1.2L capacity)
- Air filter: Rs. 400–600
- Drive chain: Rs. 1,500–2,500
- Annual service estimate: Rs. 10,000–15,000
Resale Value: Which Holds Its Price Better?
Resale Reliability: The Honda CD70 has the best resale value of any motorcycle in Pakistan. A well-maintained 2–3 year old CD70 regularly sells for 85–92% of its original price.
Yamaha Depreciation: The Yamaha YB 125Z typically retains around 60–70% of its purchase price after two years, resulting in a higher total loss of capital compared to the CD70.
Riding Experience: Where the Yamaha Genuinely Wins
Performance Advantages: While the Honda wins on economy, the Yamaha delivers a superior riding experience.
- Engine Power: The 124cc engine cruises at 80–90 km/h effortlessly.
- Transmission: The 5-speed gearbox offers smoother cruising compared to the CD70's 4-speed.
- Electric Start: Standard on the Yamaha, providing crucial convenience for early mornings.
- Ergonomics: A wider, more comfortable seat and stable suspension make long distances more bearable.
- Dashboard: Includes a dedicated fuel gauge, which is missing from the CD70.
Safety and Braking
Stopping Power: Both bikes rely on drum brakes in their base configurations. The YB 125Z-DX upgrades to a front disc brake, significantly improving stopping consistency.
Recommended Upgrades: For riders seeking improved control and visibility, we recommend exploring specific additions:
- Bike hand guard guide: Increases protection for levers and hands.
- Top fog lights for bikes: Improves night-time visibility for both models.
The Total Cost of Ownership Over 3 Years
When combining fuel, maintenance, and projected depreciation, the net ownership cost clearly favours the Honda.
| 3-Year Metric | Honda CD70 | Yamaha YB 125Z |
|---|---|---|
| Net Ownership Cost | ~Rs. 295,220 | ~Rs. 519,500 |
When the Yamaha YB 125Z Makes Sense
- Extended Commutes: If you cover 50–80 km per day, the Yamaha’s comfort is well worth the cost.
- Highway Use: Necessary for riders who frequently utilize main roads at higher speeds.
- Pillion Comfort: Superior passenger support compared to the CD70.
- Standard Convenience: Electric start makes the daily routine much easier.
Who Should Stick With the Honda CD70?
- Budget-Focused: Unmatched value for money at Rs. 159,900.
- City Commuters: Perfect for stop-start traffic below 50 km/h.
- Resale Seekers: The gold standard for value retention.
- Rural Access: Easy to repair in any location across the country.
Alternatives Worth Considering
- United bikes price in Pakistan guide
- Top 7 Suzuki bikes guide
- 13 Best cheap electric bikes of 2026
- Jolta Electric Bike Review
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bike has better fuel average — Honda CD70 or Yamaha YB 125Z?
The Honda CD70 wins on fuel economy, averaging 55–62 km/l compared to 40–47 km/l for the Yamaha.
What is the price difference between Honda CD70 and Yamaha YB 125Z in 2026?
The Yamaha YB 125Z is approximately Rs. 210,000–230,000 more expensive than the Honda CD70.
Does the Yamaha YB 125Z have electric start?
Yes, electric start is standard on the Yamaha, whereas the CD70 relies on a kick-starter.
