autoX Awards 2024: Yamaha R3 Performance, Quality and Value for Money Ranked

autoX Awards 2024: The Yamaha YZF-R3 is a motorcycle that I was eager to experience again. I spent a considerable amount of time with the previous-generation R3 when it was first launched in India several years ago. Remarkably, my first encounter with the R3 in 2015 was at the same venue as our current testing ground for the ‘Best of 2024’ award – the Buddh International Circuit. So, nine years later, I was ready to rekindle the connection with Yamaha’s twin-cylinder sport bike, and my expectations were undeniably high.

I still vividly recall how forgiving the R3 was on the racetrack, making even a novice rider like me feel like a pro. To my delight, the new Yamaha R3 retains this quality. Enter a corner too quickly or get a bit too aggressive with the throttle on the way out the R3 remains stable, avoiding the punishing response of a usual track-focused bike. It’s still a spacious motorcycle that comfortably accommodates taller riders, with an ergonomic layout that’s relatively relaxed compared to competitors like the Aprilia RS 457. Its riding position strikes a balance between the highly committed stance of the baby Aprilia and the more relaxed, sport-touring posture of a bike like the Ninja 500.

Also Read: Yamaha R3, MT-03 1000Km Review: Old School Rock n' Roll

That said, the R3’s hardware feels somewhat old-school, which may or may not be to your liking, depending on your preferences. It needs to be revved high to deliver excitement – an antithesis to its otherwise easy-going nature. However, the 321cc twin-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with 41bhp and 29.5 Nm of torque is still enjoyable, and the slick 6-speed gearbox is a delight to use. In 2015, it was considered fast; now, it’s decently quick, at best, by today’s standards. It also feels under-equipped, especially when compared to its own younger sibling - the tech-packed Yamaha R15. Its high price further impacts its value proposition. However, for those who crave a pure riding experience, solid reliability, and an iconic badge, there’s still nothing quite like the Yamaha YZF-R3.

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