Yamaha YZF-R3 and the Rivals
August this year is going to be an exciting month for motorcycle enthusiasts. Not because it’s the best time to go out and ride, it’s not, since the monsoon will continue to...
August this year is going to be an exciting month for motorcycle enthusiasts. Not because it’s the best time to go out and ride, it’s not, since the monsoon will continue to play hide and seek with us for one more month. But because we are going to witness a very important launch from one of the strongest motorcycle manufacturers ever.
Yamaha is ready to present their YZF-R3 in India on 11th August, 2015 at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida. After the launch of R15 in 2008, the R3 is going to be their most important launch in the Indian market. But the R3 has already got its work cut out against the competition. And it is a formidable competition indeed – the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and KTM RC390.
Being a 321cc parallel twin, the R3 is in the closest competition with the Ninja 300. However, with the peak power output of 42PS @ 10750RPM, it produces 3PS more power than the Ninja and closer to RC390’s 43BHP figure.
Let’s take a look at R3’s rivals, the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and KTM RC390:
Dynamically and in the approach, Yamaha’s YZF-R3 and Kawasaki Ninja 300 are similar to each other. Yet, the R3 has a clear advantage in few key areas like the engine capacity, power output and braking. The R3 has 21cc more while it also produces 42PS of maximum power compared to Ninja’s 39PS. Although, they are more or less evenly matched on the torque figures. One big advantage the R3 has is in the braking department. The Yamaha will come with ABS as the standard fitment while the Ninja doesn’t have it even as an option. Lastly, the R3 is 3kgs lighter than the Ninja 300. On paper, it appears that the Yamaha will trump the Kawasaki in performance; however, it can only be confirmed on the road!
KTM RC390; however, is a more concentrated motorcycle compared to the Yamaha R3. While both are sportbikes, the RC is more aggressive in its looks, rider ergonomics and in the power delivery. The KTM is also lighter and more powerful machine. Yet, the R3 is a fine compromise between an aggressive riding position and comfort. Also, with 42PS power on tap, the R3 shall not be too far behind even though RC is full 10kgs lighter. We reckon R3’s twin cylinder setup will definitely has its own advantages here.
Once again, everything is on the paper right now. We will be able to confirm if the performance translates on the road as well.
Stay tuned!