Yamaha Turns On The Dark Mode For The MT-03

The Yamaha MT-03 has to be one of the most eagerly anticipated motorcycles for the Zig boys and in the new Dark Blast Edition just takes the attractiveness to a whole new level.

Yep, we know that the bike looks killer in any colour, let alone for this all-black avatar. But sadly, Yamaha India doesn’t think that Indians will be willing to fork out money for it. So, until then Yamaha Thailand can continue to delight its locals.

No differences to report on the bike besides the new colour scheme. It continues to be powered by a gem of an engine: the 321cc parallel-twin motor being one of the writer’s personal favourites. At 42PS and 29.6Nm, the output figures are a bit low when compared to the KTM 390 Duke. But when Yamaha did used to sell the R3 in India, the engine delivered an ultra smooth and reliable yet enticing riding experience.

Not one to repeat again and again, Yamaha India doesn’t see value in bringing the bike to our shores (*cries in the corner*). It would turn out to be pricey, certainly when other competitors in its segment are single-cylinder bikes like the 390 Duke, the BMW G 310 R and the Honda CB300R, two of which are reasonably priced in 2022. We’ll leave it up to you to figure out which is which. But expecting the MT-03 or the R3 from Yamaha India is quite futile. Sigh.