Yamaha R3 Review: Built For The Tracks, Perfect For The Roads

The Yamaha R3 is back in India! and it’s here to make a mark in the world of sportsbikes. Early last year, Yamaha brought back the R3 with a refreshed look and performance, reigniting the excitement of sportsbike enthusiasts in India. Known for its racing DNA, the R3 is a proud member of Yamaha’s R series, which includes popular models likes R15 and the powerful R1. With its relaunch, the R3 aims to strike the perfect balance between track-ready performance and everyday practicality.

I took the R3 for a spin on the bustling streets of Delhi to see how it performs as a daily ride, and let me tell you—this bike is more than just a track star. From its stunning design to its smooth performance, the Yamaha R3 is here to prove it’s as comfortable on the road as it is on the track. Read on to find out why.

Design & Styling

The R3 looks like it’s built for speed. Its design is a testament to Yamaha’s racing DNA. At first glance you might mistake it as a R15, but it’s the refreshed R3. It has sharp, aggressive styling with twin LED headlights, a sleek body, redesigned exhaust and sharp fairings that scream sportiness. The bike takes design cues from Yamaha’s larger R-series sibling the R1, making it look premium. 

The aerodynamic shape not only looks cool but also helps the bike go faster by cutting through the air more smoothly by reducing drag. With a muscular fuel tank and a sleek tail section, the R3 exudes a premium aura. The overall fit and finish are top-notch, with attention to detail evident in every component, making it a head-turner on Indian roads.

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the Yamaha R3 beats a 321cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, now compliant with the latest BS6 Phase 2 norms. This powerhouse delivers 42 PS at 10,750 rpm and 29.5 Nm of torque at 9,000 rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch. While the slipper clutch ensures smooth downshifts during spirited rides and prevents rear-wheel lockups, it feels less friendly in heavy traffic, especially during Delhi’s peak hours.

Out on the road, the R3’s performance is exhilarating. The power delivery is linear, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, and the engine thrives in the higher rev range. The engine’s high-revving nature and torque-laden performance tempt you to open the throttle whenever there’s an open stretch ahead. However, the engine isn’t flawless—vibrations creep in as the revs intensify. And, apart from that, the engine also heats up enough for you to take notice, when you ride in peak traffic. 

Features & Technology

The Yamaha R3 now comes with a fully digital LCD instrument cluster that displays all essential information, including speed, rpm, gear position, fuel level, and trip meters. The cluster is easy to read even under direct sunlight. 

While the advanced features like traction control or riding modes are missing, the bike focuses on simplicity, with dual-channel ABS and what’s important for a great ride. It also doesn’t have fancy features like Bluetooth connectivity but the R3 compensates with its pure riding focus.

Ultimately, the R3 prioritises raw performance and riding pleasure, proving that sometimes, less really is more.

Ride & Handling

The riding position is slightly aggressive but comfortable enough for daily commuting. The split-seats are well padded that not only adds to the bike’s sporty look but also provides decent comfort for both the rider and the pillion. Even though it’s a sporty bike, the R3 is comfortable to ride every day as well. The handlebars are slightly raised, and the footpegs are positioned in a way that gives you a sporty but relaxed riding posture. 

The R3’s lightweight diamond frame chassis, upside-down front forks, long swingarm, and mono-cross rear suspension provide excellent handling and stability. The suspension setup strikes a fine balance between comfort and sportiness, soaking up minor bumps while keeping the rider connected to the road. Riders will appreciate the precise handling and feedback, making the R3 an enjoyable companion on weekend rides through the countryside.

Weighing 169 kg (kerb weight), the R3 feels nimble and easy to manoeuver, even in city traffic. On highways, the R3 can comfortably cruise at high speeds, with ample power on tap for quick overtakes. The tires offer excellent grip, inspiring confidence whether you’re leaning into a curve or braking hard. The bike can achieve a top speed of around 180 km/h, making it a strong contender for riders looking for a thrilling experience.

With a 14-litre fuel tank and mileage of around 23-25 km/l, the R3 offers a good range, so you won’t have to stop for fuel too often.

Price & Colour

Priced at Rs. 4,64,900 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, Yamaha is importing R3 as a Completely Built-up Unit (CBU) from Indonesia, resulting in its higher cost. On-road, it will set you back about Rs. 5.35 lakh in Delhi.

Despite its premium pricing, the R3 remains a strong competitor against rivals like the Kawasaki Ninja 300, KTM RC 390, and Aprilia RS 457, offering refined performance with its smooth twin-cylinder engine. Yamaha’s legacy of reliability and the R3's well-rounded performance make it a compelling choice, even though it may cost a bit more than its competitors.

You can choose from bold colours like Yamaha’s Iconic Racing Blue or the Matte Black, both of which make the bike stand out on the road.

Verdict

The Yamaha R3 is a fantastic package for Indian sportsbike enthusiasts. It combines stunning looks, engaging performance, and everyday practicality. While it may not be the most feature-packed bike in its segment, its pure riding pleasure and reliability set it apart.

For riders who prioritise performance and a touch of exclusivity, the Yamaha R3 is undoubtedly worth considering. Whether you’re an experienced rider or upgrading from a smaller bike, the R3 promises to keep you grinning every time you twist the throttle.

Likes:

• Sporty Design
• Impressive Road Presence
• Exhilarating Performance

Dislikes:

• Engine tends to Heat up
• Slipper Clutch isn’t Ideal for Heavy Traffic

Utkarsh Agarwal

BW Reporters The author is the Editorial Lead of BW Auto World