Harley-davidson Knucklehead vs Yamaha Xsr125
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Harley-davidson Knucklehead vs Yamaha Xsr125. Harley-davidson Knucklehead: ~40 hp @ 4,800 rpm (EL 61ci high-compression; note: factory figures varied by year and configuration) hp, ~249 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed ~153 km/h (95 mph, for the high-compression EL 61ci variant; note: estimate based on period testing), Motoryk rating 7.5/10. Yamaha Xsr125: 15 hp @ 10,000 rpm hp, 139 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed ~110 km/h, Motoryk rating 8.0/10.
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Harley-davidson Knucklehead
Yamaha Xsr125
Horsepower (hp)
40 hp
15 hp
Torque (Nm)
68 Nm
11.5 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
153 km/h
110 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
249 kg
139 kg
Type
Classic
Classic
Horsepower
~40 hp @ 4,800 rpm (EL 61ci high-compression; note: factory figures varied by year and configuration)
15 hp @ 10,000 rpm
Torque
~68 Nm @ 3,000 rpm (estimated)
11.5 Nm @ 8,000 rpm
Top Speed
~153 km/h (95 mph, for the high-compression EL 61ci variant; note: estimate based on period testing)
~110 km/h
Weight
~249 kg (wet/curb weight)
139 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
~7.5 L/100km (estimated, varies significantly by state of tune and riding conditions)
2.5 L/100km or ~40 km/L (typical real-world average)
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Harley-davidson Knucklehead
7.5/10
"A magnificent obsession that will test your patience and wallet equally."
Pros
+Unmatched historical significance
+Iconic mechanical character
+Strong collector value retention
Cons
−Parts scarce and expensive
−Leaks oil constantly
−Specialist knowledge essential
Yamaha Xsr125
8.0/10
"The smartest 125 you can buy used, full stop."
Pros
+Sharp, confidence-inspiring handling
+VVA engine surprisingly capable
+Premium retro looks hold up
Cons
−Highway riding genuinely punishing
−Replacement bodywork costs hurt
−Limited used market availability
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
