Yamaha Stall Wrap-up EICMA 2018: All-new YZF-R3, R125 And More

It was a busy night at Yamaha’s stall with the updated R3, new variant of the Niken and more motorcycles making their debut

• 2019 Yamaha R3 gets sportier ergonomics but misses out on VVT
  2019 Yamaha R125 gets R15-inspired design and VVT
  GYTR Yamaha R1 will be limited to 20 units only

This year's EICMA Motor Show saw a lot of action with many big and small manufacturers showing off their latest and greatest creations. One of them was Yamaha which showcased its 2019 lineup of models, including everything from its scooter range to hardcore adventure-tourers. 

Faired motorcycle range:

The Japanese manufacturer showcased the all-new YZF-R3 and the YZF-R125. As part of the updates, both motorcycles now sport similar design language as the flagship Yamaha R1. The R125 also gets VVA tech, just like the R15 V3. 

Interestingly, Yamaha hasn't equipped the R3 with the same technology. That said, the R3 is more compact and sportier now, with a slimmer front-end design and revised track-focused ergonomics. This has resulted in a top-speed bump of 8kmph and has brought the weight down from 173kg to 169kg (kerb). The Japanese brand also showcased a track-focused version of the bike called the R3 GYTR (Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing), which comes with top-shelf components like Akrapovic exhaust, Ohlins suspensions, Brembo front disc brakes and GYTR engine kit.

Yamaha Niken GT Unveiled:

Yamaha also unveiled a GT version of the Niken. True to its touring focused nature, it gets features like panniers, higher windshield, comfort seat, heated grips and more as standard. Yamaha will sell the Niken GT alongside the standard version, starting from next year.

Scooters:

Coming to its scooter range, the Japanese brand showcased a special edition of its XMax range. Called the XMAX IRON MAX, Yamaha showcased 125cc, 300cc and 400cc versions of the scooter. Being a special edition model, it gets an exclusive colour, new dual seat, leather interior pads and more.

Also making its debut was the 3CT Prototype, which makes use of Yamaha's multi-level leaning technology. It gets a 300cc engine, 3D-printed seat and a tilt-lock assist system.  

Yamaha Tenere 700 Unveiled:

The one motorcycle that grabbed all the headlines was the eagerly awaited Yamaha Tenere 700. Based on Yamaha's Dakar conquering machine, the WR450F Rally, the Tenere is as hardcore ADV and comes with 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels, shod with off-road tyres. It also gets 43mm USD forks with 210mm of travel at the front and a link-type monoshock unit at the back with 200mm of travel - both being fully adjustable. The Tenere also sports tapered handlebars, LED lighting and switchable ABS along with a generous 16-litre fuel tank, which Yamaha says is good for a range of 350km. 

Special edition models:

The Yamaha R1 celebrated its 20th anniversary this year. In order to commemorate the occasion, the company unveiled a limited edition model called the YZF-R1 GYTR. Limited to only 20 units, the track-only motorcycle comes finished in retro Suzuka 8 Hours 20th Anniversary livery. It also gets premium components like a revised ECU, quick throttle, wire harnesses, Ohlins racing suspension setup with a steering damper, Brembo brakes, racing radiator and Akrapovic exhaust.

Retro-classic segment:

The new XSR700 XTribute was also unveiled at the premiere. It pays homage to the 70’s icon, the XT500 with its iconic design and livery. You get off-road handlebars, block-pattern tyres and a flat seat.

Powering it, however, is a modern 689cc high-torque engine. Customers also have the option to slap on an Akrapovic exhaust system. The motorcycle will hit European showrooms starting from April 2019.