YAMAHA has launched the latest iteration of its popular R3.
The Japanese manufacturer pulled the wraps from the 2019 YZF-R3 in the US last night, revealing radical styling inspired by the YZR-M1 MotoGP bike.
Alongside this drastic styling, the updated small-capacity supersport features a range of new performance-enhancing technology and refined ergonomics.
The 2019 model retains its 321cc twin-cylinder powertrain and lightweight steel tubular frame, which utilises the engine as a stressed member.
However, the suspension sees some serious upgrades, with an all-new KYB 37mm inverted front fork, with improved rigidity designed to give a much sportier (yet still comfortable) front end feel, and bring the bike’s spec in line with the rest of the R family. Joining the forks is an all-new triple clamp that incorporates an aluminium handlebar crown.
Lowered handlebars – by 22mm – and a new tank shape promise a sportier riding position to match the new forks. The seat remains low and accessible, at 780mm, and the bike light, at 167kg.
Aesthetically, the R3 now looks much more like the rest of Yamaha’s ‘R’ family, which includes the updated YZF-R125, unveiled at Intermot earlier this month.
An aerodynamic new front faring and screen pay homage to the YZR-M1, with an aggressive look that claims to reduce aerodynamic drag by seven percent, decreasing turbulence and giving an increase of up to 8 km/h (mph) in top speed. A central duct in the fairing directs airflow to the radiator, contributing to engine cooling performance.
A new tank cover design and dual LED headlights and position lights contribute to the sharp new look, while a new LCD instrument panel tidies up the dash.
The YZF-R3 will be available from March 2019, in colour options of Yamaha Blue or Power Black.
