Are you looking to give your Yamaha MT 125 a sportier and more aggressive look? One of the easiest and most effective ways to achieve this is by upgrading your license plate holder. A sporty license plate holder can dramatically change the rear profile of your bike, making it stand out from the crowd. In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know about choosing and installing a sporty license plate holder for your Yamaha MT 125.

Why Upgrade to a Sporty License Plate Holder?

Before we get into the specifics, let's talk about why you might want to consider upgrading your license plate holder in the first place. The stock license plate holder on the Yamaha MT 125, like many stock parts, is often designed with functionality and cost-effectiveness in mind, rather than aesthetics. This means it can sometimes look bulky or out of place, detracting from the bike's overall appearance.

A sporty license plate holder, on the other hand, is designed to enhance the bike's visual appeal. These holders are typically more streamlined, made from higher-quality materials, and positioned to give the bike a cleaner, more aggressive look. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Enhanced Aesthetics: A sporty license plate holder can dramatically improve the look of your bike, giving it a more modern and aggressive appearance. It's a simple change that can make a big difference.
• Weight Reduction: Many aftermarket license plate holders are made from lightweight materials like aluminum or carbon fiber. This can help reduce the overall weight of your bike, improving its performance and handling.
• Improved Aerodynamics: While the impact on aerodynamics might be minimal, a sleeker license plate holder can contribute to a slightly cleaner airflow around the rear of the bike.
• Customization: Upgrading your license plate holder is a great way to personalize your bike and make it your own. There are many different styles and designs to choose from, so you can find one that perfectly matches your taste.
• Durability: High-quality aftermarket license plate holders are often more durable than the stock ones, offering better resistance to vibrations, weather, and other environmental factors.

Choosing the Right Sporty License Plate Holder for Your Yamaha MT 125

Now that you know why you might want to upgrade, let's talk about how to choose the right sporty license plate holder for your Yamaha MT 125. With so many options available on the market, it's important to consider several factors to ensure you get the perfect fit and style for your bike.

Material

The material of the license plate holder is one of the most important factors to consider. Here are some of the most common materials:

• Aluminum: Aluminum is a popular choice for its lightweight, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Aluminum license plate holders are typically more expensive than plastic ones, but they offer a better combination of strength and weight.
• Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is another excellent option for its strength and resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel license plate holders are typically heavier than aluminum ones, but they offer superior durability.
• Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber is the ultimate in lightweight and high-tech materials. Carbon fiber license plate holders are incredibly strong and lightweight, but they are also the most expensive option.
• Plastic: Plastic license plate holders are the most affordable option, but they are also the least durable. Plastic holders are prone to cracking and fading, especially in harsh weather conditions.

Design and Style

The design and style of the license plate holder are also important considerations. You'll want to choose a holder that complements the overall look of your Yamaha MT 125. Here are some popular styles:

• Fender Eliminator Kits: Fender eliminator kits are designed to completely remove the rear fender of your bike, giving it a clean and minimalist look. These kits typically include a license plate holder, as well as mounting hardware for the turn signals and taillight.
• Shorty License Plate Holders: Shorty license plate holders are designed to be as small and unobtrusive as possible. They typically mount the license plate directly under the taillight, giving the bike a very clean and sporty look.
• Adjustable License Plate Holders: Adjustable license plate holders allow you to adjust the angle of the license plate, giving you more control over the bike's appearance. These holders are a great option if you want to fine-tune the look of your bike.

Compatibility

Of course, you'll also want to make sure that the license plate holder you choose is compatible with your Yamaha MT 125. Check the product description carefully to ensure that it is specifically designed for your bike model and year. Some license plate holders may require modifications to fit properly, so be sure to read the instructions carefully before installation.

Features

In addition to the basic features, some sporty license plate holders come with additional features that you may find useful. These include:

• LED License Plate Lights: Many aftermarket license plate holders include LED license plate lights, which are brighter and more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs.
• Integrated Turn Signals: Some license plate holders have integrated turn signals, which can further clean up the look of your bike. These holders typically mount the turn signals on either side of the license plate.
• Reflectors: Reflectors are required by law in many jurisdictions, so make sure that the license plate holder you choose includes reflectors or has provisions for mounting them.

Installation Tips

Installing a sporty license plate holder on your Yamaha MT 125 is a relatively straightforward process, but it's important to take your time and follow the instructions carefully. Here are some general tips:

• Gather Your Tools: Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools, including a socket set, wrench set, screwdrivers, and pliers.
• Read the Instructions: Read the instructions carefully before you start. This will help you understand the installation process and avoid any mistakes.
• Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the battery before you start working on the electrical system. This will prevent any accidental shorts or shocks.
• Remove the Old License Plate Holder: Remove the old license plate holder by unscrewing the mounting bolts. You may need to remove the rear fender or taillight to access the bolts.
• Install the New License Plate Holder: Install the new license plate holder by screwing it into the mounting holes. Make sure the holder is securely fastened and that the license plate is properly aligned.
• Connect the Wiring: Connect the wiring for the license plate light and turn signals. Make sure the connections are secure and that the wires are properly insulated.
• Test the Lights: Test the license plate light and turn signals to make sure they are working properly.
• Reinstall the Rear Fender and Taillight: Reinstall the rear fender and taillight, if necessary.
• Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the battery.

Where to Buy Sporty License Plate Holders

You can find sporty license plate holders for your Yamaha MT 125 at a variety of online and brick-and-mortar retailers. Here are some popular options:

• Online Retailers: Amazon, eBay, and RevZilla are all great places to find a wide selection of license plate holders at competitive prices.
• Motorcycle Parts Stores: Local motorcycle parts stores are another good option. They can offer expert advice and help you choose the right holder for your bike.
• Yamaha Dealerships: Your local Yamaha dealership may also carry sporty license plate holders for the MT 125.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading to a sporty license plate holder is a great way to enhance the look of your Yamaha MT 125. It's a simple and affordable modification that can make a big difference in the bike's overall appearance. By choosing the right holder and following the installation tips outlined in this article, you can give your bike a more aggressive and personalized look. So, what are you waiting for, guys? Go ahead and transform your Yamaha MT 125 today!