According to a media report, Yamaha is looking to launch the R3 and the MT-03 in the Indian market in December 2023. The move comes at the same week as the inaugural MotoGP Bharat. The twin-cylinder bikes are likely to broaden the Japanese bike maker’s portfolio in India.
Yamaha used to sell the R3 before the BS5 emission norms. However, since early 2020, the bike is no longer sold. Meanwhile, the MT-03 is nothing but the naked version of the R3.
The YZF-R3 is a fully-faired motorcycle that will compete against the KTM RC390 and Kawasaki Ninja 300 in the Indian market. On the other hand, the MT-03 will be a direct rival to the KTM 390 Duke. Both motorcycles come equipped with a 321cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine, producing 40.4 BHP and 29.4Nm of peak torque.
Yamaha is planning to first get these bikes as CBU (completely built units) from Indonesia. CKD production is likely to be followed later on. That said, in terms of pricing, the R3 could retail around INR 4 lakh range, while the MT-03 might be priced lower than that.
These bikes are likely to be sold via the company’s premium Blue Square outlets. Both bikes will come with updated features, new styling, LED headlamps and a new front up-side down front forks.
In addition, Yamaha Motor India is reportedly planning to introduce new middleweight motorcycles in the Indian market after 2023. According to Eishin Chihana, Chairman of Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies, there is a possibility of limited numbers of the YZF-R7 and MT-07 being introduced as well. We eagerly anticipate Yamaha’s decision to bring these motorcycles to the market, considering their current focus on sub-250cc two-wheelers. The absence of larger-capacity motorcycles not only impacts the brand’s image but also restricts current Yamaha owners from upgrading within the Yamaha family.
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