Yamaha took the wraps off the 2019 YZF-R3 and it starts at Rs USD 4,999 going all the way to USD 5,299 for the ABS version in USA. Notable changes in the 2019 model include changes in bodywork, including the new front fascia, bearing a close resemblance to the YZF-R15 V 3.0, in line with the latest design language. The bike features LED headlights and a central air duct which is bigger and wider than the YZF-R15 V 3.0 sold in India. Yamaha says that the new bodywork is inspired by the MotoGP race bike, the YZR-M1. Other highlights of the bike include all-new 41mm USD forks from Kayaba with changes in damper settings, weight distribution close to 50:50 (claimed).
Power continues to come from the 321cc, liquid cooled, inline twin cylinder motor which makes 41.42bhp at 10,750rpm and 29.6Nm at 9,000rpm and comes matched to a 6-speed gearbox. The 2019 YZF-R3 does not get a slipper clutch. The kerb weight is down by 6kg, now at 167kg as compared to the 2018 model. The company says that the ergonomics have improved, thanks to the revised handlebar position and the fuel tank which is positioned lower. Yamaha has ditched the part-digital, part-analog console, opting for a fully-digital instrument cluster. Rest of the mechanicals remain the same. The 2019 YZF-R3 is equipped with Dunlop radials. At the Auto Expo earlier this year, Yamaha introduced the 2018 YZF-R3 with ABS and stickier Metzeler M5 tyres as standard.
The bike sold in international markets is available in three colour schemes. Yamaha has not yet announced when it will bring the 2019 YZF-R3 to our shores. When launched the facelifted YZF-R3 will challenge the Kawasaki Ninja 400, KTM RC 390 and TVS Apache RR 310. The 2018 Yamaha YZF-R3 retails at Rs 3.49 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).