India is one of the largest motorcycle markets in the world, with high volumes. However, the motorcycling landscape in India is very different from the western world.
There are many motorbikes from brands that run exclusively in India, as well as motorbikes from global manufacturers designed specifically for the Indian market.
Reporting from Rideapart, in India, global models that may not get much attention in other markets are considered high-end motorbikes, including the Yamaha YZF-R3 and MT-03.
Motorcycles that have been available in the global market for a long time but have recently been introduced in India.
The Yamaha R3 and MT-03 share the same platform. The only difference between the two models is the body and ergonomics package.
The R3 follows Yamaha’s YZF-R lineage with a full-fairing ergonomics package and a hint of sportiness. The MT-03 has an upright seating position and a naked design that matches Yamaha’s futuristic and sporty Master of Torque line.
Yamaha R25 ABS Metallic Black [PT YIMM]. Specifications
Both the Yamaha MT-03 and the YZF-R3 are powered by the same engine, namely a 321cc compact, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, partially parallel twin engine largely unchanged since launch. This motorcycle produces 40.4 horsepower and 29.4 Nm of torque.
This engine transmits power to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission with a slipper clutch. Both the MT-03 and R3 have the same power and torque figures.
In terms of technology, both motorbikes have inverted front forks and a load-adjustable monoshock at the rear.
The motorcycle has a single brake caliper at each end, which is equipped with dual-channel ABS to handle braking duties.
LED lighting is used throughout to ensure visibility in all weather conditions.
Unlike its competitors, these bikes do not have full color TFT displays and rely instead on more traditional LCD displays.
Price in India is more expensive
Both the YZF-R3 and MT-03 have been assembled in Indonesia and were complete motorbikes (CBU) before entering the Indian market.
Despite the beginner-friendly package, these two bikes come at a steep price. The MT-03 is priced at 460,000 Rupees or around 85.8 million rupiah.
The YZF-R3 is even more expensive, priced at Rs 464,000, or around 86.5 million rupiah.
For comparison, the same engine-based variants but with smaller capacities, the Yamaha MT-25 and R25 which are marketed in Indonesia, are sold at prices of 57.2 million and 63.4 million rupiah respectively.