2019 Yamaha YZF-R3 revealed

Sharper styling, more equipment and minor chassis tweaks are the key higlights of the 2019 Yamaha YZF-R3. 

The 2019 Yamaha YZF-R3 is out! Headlines of the new model include a sharper design, more equipment and some chassis improvements. The updated version is set to go on sale in global markets by the end of 2018.

On the design front, Yamaha has brought the new R3 in line with its current ‘R’ range. As a result, this new sportbike dons a new front-fairing that’s inspired by Yamaha’s MotoGP racer, the YZR-M1. Yamaha claims the new fairing cuts the aerodynamic drag by 7 per cent, resulting in an 8km/h increase in top speed – so, expect the speedo read 180-185km/h in the new model. What’s more, the halogen lamps of the outgoing model have been replaced with a pair of sleek LED lights. Plus, there’s a fully-digital instrument cluster. The fuel tank has also been reshaped, but the rest of the design is more or less unchanged from the current model.

Other updates include a new 37mm KYB inverted fork that’s mounted on an all-new triple clamp. Yamaha says this improves handling and comfort. Given the fact how good the current R3 is, we don’t doubt them at all.

Yamaha hasn’t made any changes to the powertrain, and it’s understood because the current bike’s 321cc parallel-twin engine is one of the best in the business. It produces 41bhp and 29.6Nm of torque and from what we can tell, it felt super smooth and plenty fast for any kind of riding in the outgoing model. The gearbox continues to be a six-speeder, but surprisingly there’s no slipper clutch still.

Yamaha is expected to bring the new R3 to the Indian shores sometime in 2019. Expect it to command a decent premium over the current model – which is priced at Rs 3.49 lakh (ex-showroom) – since the new model gets a host of new features and equipment.