Yamaha YZF-R3: Long Term Review, Fleet Introduction

Last week when we compared the Yamaha YZF-R3 against the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and the KTM RC390, the new kid on the block emerged victorious. I did get a fair bit of saddle time on it riding from Mumbai to Lonavala and back, but given the R3’s comfort and performance, I have been hungry for more. So instead of dropping it off to the Editor’s place that evening, I kept the R3 for myself! *my own, my precious*

Right from the YZF-R15 to its globally claimed superbike, the R1, Yamaha has always ensured its fast machines are styled brilliantly, and the R3 is no different. I particularly love the way the R3’s design is inspired by the previous generation R6. The split headlight, stubby exhaust and well carved tank all sync well to give this entry-level sportsbike a beautiful silhouette. Despite the underwhelming shade of black that our test bike wears, the R3 still manages to turn a lot of heads everywhere. 

Its looks aside, what really impressed about the Yamaha YZF-R3 was its comfort. Of the many performance oriented motorcycles I have ridden, I have to admit the R3 ranks pretty much at the top in terms of ergonomics. Thanks to its tall fuel tank and the relatively short seat height, you feel one with the bike. Moreover, the forward set foot pegs and the well-cushioned seats ensure the bike feels comfortable even when riding long distances. 

The only problem I have encountered with the R3 is that the fuel injection is snatchy when the engine is cold, causing acceleration to feel jerky. With over 1400km done on the odo, the R3 is due for its first service already, and hopefully this little glitch should be taken care of. I have had the bike for just over a week though, and I’m hoping to clock more miles before the boss decides to pull ranks and whisk the R3’s keys away. With the vacation season here I’m even hoping to take the R3 here for a long ride, something I feel will help me unwind after the hectic work schedules over the past few weeks. 

Total km till Date: 1,473

Fuel Efficiency: 22.7kmpl

Cheers: Riding comfort, Looks

Sneers: Price