Yamaha YZF-R2 Mid Variant: Explained

Yamaha YZF-R2 has been recently launched, with three different variants. The mid-spec variant of the R2 is priced at Rs 2,39,500 (ex-showroom Delhi). It is based on the base variant but has a different colour scheme and one important feature addition for a Rs 9,000 premium over the base model.

Design

Body-coloured alloy wheels set the new variant apart from the base model's black units. This variant is available in two exclusive colours: Matte White Pearl and Racing Blue, with slightly different graphics on each. While the blue one is a classic Yamaha colour, it also gets matching blue-coloured alloy wheels. On the other hand, the white one gets contrasting black alloys. Both are quite good looking, but we really like the white shade as it looks quite premium and sporty. 

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Features

Yamaha's bi-directional quickshifter is the headlining addition, enabling clutchless upshifts and downshifts. This is segment-first too. The TFT display with Y-Connect, turn-by-turn navigation and mileage indicator all carry over from the base R2 (click here to explore the base variant). Mid-variant buyers miss the R2M's Smart Key system for keyless operation. Adjustable clutch and brake levers are also absent, staying exclusive to the top model. Full variant-wise feature explainer for the R2 here.

Safety & Hardware

The safety kit is unchanged from the base model. Dual-channel ABS, traction control, and a slipper clutch all carry over. The only thing it misses is the preload-adjustable fork and monoshock as they are exclusive to the M variant. You can read more about the Yamaha R2 M variant in our detailed explainer.

Engine & Performance

Across the entire R2 lineup, the engine and its output are identical. The 204cc liquid-cooled motor produces 26.5PS and 19.1Nm. It’s linked to a 6-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch..

BikeDekho Says

A Rs 9,000 premium over the base is really worth it in our opinion as the bidirectional quickshifter makes riding a delight, especially considering its sporty mannerisms. Additionally, it also looks cooler in the blue shade. If you want a well-equipped supersport without having to splurge extra on the much costlier R2 M variant, this one’s worth it. You can also check out our combined variant explainer for a clearer picture. 

That said, if you really like the black shade but also want a quickshifter, you can also do that in the future as Yamaha will offer the quickshifter as an optional accessory, likely for around Rs 6,000-7,000.