Yamaha MT-03 Review: Wine In A Beer Mug

Yamaha has a cult following around the world for one very good reason: the performance and handling prowess of their motorcycles. Once you get a taste of these high revving machines, it's really hard to settle for something else. One of these bikes in India is the MT-15. However, until now, there was no direct successor to it in the country which means even loyalists had to look at other brands to upgrade. But now, they have their eyes set on the MT-03. 

The problem, however, is that while the MT-03 packs bulletproof hardware, the brochure feels a little too light in comparison to the competition. Also, with mechanicals shared with the high-revving Yamaha R3, will the MT-03 feel as good? We flew to Thailand to find out if the riding experience of the Yamaha MT-03 can overcome the lack of features. 

Looks

The Yamaha MT-03 is an aggressive looking motorcycle. Standing true to its streetfighter credentials, the face is menacing and is dominated by the single projector headlight and the two eyebrow-like DRLs. The exposed engine, muscular fuel tank, and the tank shrouds add muscle to the motorcycle and overall, it does look lean and strong. In essence, it feels like an MMA fighter who is not overly bulky, but still muscular enough to warrant respect. 

Ergonomics

The MT-03 shares its seat and footpeg position with the R3. Hence, while the pegs are a bit rear-set, the tall and wide handlebar helps you sit upright and comfortable. However, if you are over 6 feet tall, you will have limited movement because of the shape of the fuel tank. But if you are any shorter, the MT-03 is a fairly comfortable motorcycle to be on .

Helping it further is a 780mm seat height, which is low enough to make the bike accessible to most riders in the country. Dial in the 167kg wet weight, and it is very easy to move around in parking lots as well.

Features

The Yamaha MT-03 is basic when it comes to features. Though it is likely to be priced over Rs 4.5 lakh on road once launched, it offers only dual-channel ABS, an LCD screen, a USD fork, and a preload-adjustable monoshock. In a market with advanced features like coloured TFT displays, ride modes and smartphone connectivity, the MT seems especially barebones. It doesn't even get a quickshifter and a slip-and-assist clutch, essential tools to enhance one’s riding experience. And since these are features that most of the MT-03’s rivals offer in the country, it’s definitely something that feels missing from the package. 

Engine and Performance

Powered by a 321cc parallel twin motor producing 42PS and 29.5Nm, the MT-03 inherits the R3’s rev-happy nature. Tractable in the lower revs, the power becomes more aggressive post 6000rpm, pulling smoothly to 13,000rpm. Its smooth and linear nature makes it enjoyable both in the city and on tours. The refinement shines, effortlessly cruising at high speeds. However, a quickshifter and slipper clutch would enhance overtaking experiences.

However, the expectation from a streetfighter is very different. A 321cc twin-cylinder naked should ideally pack explosive performance in the mid range and be very quick in terms of speed changes. This is where the MT-03 feels underwhelming. While the power delivery is creamy and smooth, it is a bit too linear for you to enjoy in short bursts, say in between signals. You will have to constantly play with the gearbox to keep it revving high where you have more usable power. The MT-03, like the R3, is best enjoyed on mountain roads when you have the freedom to hit the redline and enjoy the engine’s revving prowess. 

Handling

On winding Thai roads, the MT-03 really excelled. It's responsive and easy to lean into corners, making it inviting for riders of various skill levels. But the real fun on the MT is in the city in traffic. With the wide handlebars, it is easy to flick it from side to side which helps cut through traffic. Plus, the light weight of this motorcycle helps this nature and it's fun on a crowded street. But what you do miss is some explosive performance to come along with this playful nature. 

Comfort

Although we didn't encounter rough roads in Thailand, the MT-03 proved fairly comfortable. Despite the limited suspension travel, the ride felt plush, offering a smooth experience. Further testing on Indian roads is needed.

Launch and Price

Expected to launch in December at around Rs 4 lakh (ex-showroom), the Yamaha MT-03 will be directly imported from Indonesia, competing with the Triumph Speed 400, TVS Apache RTR 310, and the KTM 390 Duke.

Verdict

The Yamaha MT-03 is a motorcycle which – in bits and pieces – feels very tempting. The engine is a gem, the exhaust note is ripe, and the ergonomics make the bike very accessible to a large portion of the audience. 

However, when you assemble these components together, the final product feels a bit confusing. As a streetfighter, it lacks the outright punch from the engine which many have now come to expect and the engine character is more suited for long corners than short gaps. This deficit could have been offset by an impressive features list like a colour TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity and a quick shifter, but the MT-03 remains barebones there as well, while the competition offers all of it. 

The reason to buy the MT-03, then, is simple -- you want a great motorcycle for cruising and playing around corners on the mountain roads, without having to deal with a committed riding position of a supersport. Essentially, you want an R3 without a fairing. In our R3 review, we spoke about how the R3 is like a fine wine where you enjoy every sip of sophistication. The MT on the other hand, is like drinking the same wine out of a beer mug while watching a boxing match. While it is still a fun motorcycle, you need patience to enjoy it.