Is Yamaha launching the next-gen YZF-R3 on December 19?

Yamaha launched the all-new YZF-R3 earlier this year in Europe while we were left waiting. The R3 belongs to the entry-level twin-cylinder, faired motorcycles club which also includes the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and Ninja 400 and also the Benelli 302R. The pricing plays an important factor as these motorcycles aren’t manufactured locally and thus the demand is very low. However, Yamaha is speculated the launch the next-gen R3 as a halo product on December 19 we believe.

What’s new?

Well, a lot. Let’s begin with the styling, Yamaha has revised the aerodynamics on the new R3 to reduce drag by nine per cent which also boosts its top speed by 8kmph. There are new upside down KYB 37mm forks replacing the old telescopic unit. In terms of features the bike gets an all-digital dashboard to complement the stylish cockpit, the bike also features new LED headlamp units. The bike’s ergonomics have also been tuned with lowered handlebars and a lower fuel tank offering a more sporty riding position although the geometry is still almost the same. The R3 has gone on a slight diet as well with the updated bike weighing in at 167kg, 6kg lighter than before.

What’s not?

The engine is the same 321cc, parallel twin, liquid-cooled unit making 41bhp of power at 10,750rpm and 29.6Nm of torque at 9,000rpm. The 298mm disc with 2-piston calipers brakes at the front and 220mm disc with single-piston caliper including the dual channel ABS system is carried over from the previous generation as is the rear monoshock unit.

Yamaha had discontinued the sale of the R3 sometime earlier this year. It was priced at Rs 3.51 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) after all the BS-IV updates. We expect the new R3 to be priced at around 3.75 lakh rupees, if Yamaha actually launches it in India. Fingers crossed!