Yamaha YZF-R3 Discontinued, To Be Replaced With BS-IV Variant

Yamaha’s quarter-litre offering, the YZF-R3, has been discontinued for the time being owing to its BS-III compliance. According to our sources, the bike will be replaced with a BS IV-compliant model in May, 2017. It is also speculated that the new Yamaha R3 will be equipped with ABS. Bookings are open for the BS-IV variant and customers can book the new bike by paying a token amount of Rs 25,000.

The Yamaha R3 is powered by a 321cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin motor that churns out 42PS of power at 10,750 rpm and 29.6Nm of torque at 9,000 rpm. Transmission duties are taken care of by a six-speed unit with a final chain drive. The sharp-looking twin headlights and the full-faired bodywork with a tapering, high-set tail give the bike a muscular, mass-forward look. The balanced ergonomics ensure the rider can use the bike for aggressive riding around the track as well as relaxed cruising down the highway. The bike employs traditional forks at the front while the rear has a monoshock unit. Outright grip is sacrificed by a pair of rather long-lasting MRF tyres. When it comes to braking, the front-end is anchored by a single 298mm disc and the rear with a 220mm disc.

The YZF-R3 is a refined motorcycle, thanks to the implementation of forged pistons and a counter balancer. The new bike will rival the likes of the KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 300, the upcoming Benelli Tornado 302R and TVS Akula 310. The BS-III model was priced at Rs 3.25 Lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi. Expect a price rise of about Rs 5,000 for the BS IV variant, and if the bike is launched with ABS, then the price is bound to go up by around Rs 25-30,000.