We put the Yamaha R3 through our performance tests to measure its acceleration, roll-on performance and braking. Here’s what the numbers revealed.
The R3 is currently Yamaha’s flagship motorcycle in India. It currently finds itself in a segment that’s moved on in terms of performance and value. But how does the R3 stack up when tested in objective terms? Well, here is how the R3 performed in our tests.
Yamaha R3 tested: acceleration
| 0-100kph acceleration | |
|---|---|
| 40kph | 1.63s |
| 60kph | 2.61s |
| 80kph | 3.98s |
| 100kph | 5.85s |
Testing was carried out on a dry stretch of road in clear weather
The R3 recorded a 0-60kph time of 2.61 seconds and managed 0-100kph in 5.85 seconds. While those figures place it among the quicker motorcycles in its segment, the nature of its performance is distinctly different. The parallel-twin engine builds power progressively, and most of the thrust is concentrated higher up in the rev range. This power delivery characteristic meant the R3 never struggled for traction during full-throttle acceleration runs. There’s no violent surge low down; the engine keeps its best for the upper reaches of the rev range, which makes the whole process feel more composed than chaotic.
In roll-on tests that simulate overtaking performance, the R3 continued to deliver consistent results. It clocked 20-50kph in 2nd gear in 2.09 seconds, 30-70kph in 3rd gear in 3.44 seconds, and 50-80kph in 4th gear in 3.67 seconds. These figures indicate a reasonably responsive midrange, even if outright urgency isn’t its strongest suit.
Braking performance from 60kph to a standstill was measured at 15.46 metres. The brakes offered decent bite and progression, with no instability under hard braking.
Yamaha R3 specifications and price
| Specifications and price | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 321cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled |
| Power | 42hp at 10,750rpm |
| Torque | 29.5Nm at 9,000rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Fuel Capacity | 14 litres |
| Kerb weight | 169kg |
| Brakes (F/R) | 298mm disc / 220mm disc |
| Tyres (F/R) | 110/70-R17 / 140/70-R17 |
| Price | Rs 3.60 lakh |
Powered by a 321cc parallel twin that produces 42hp and 29.5Nm, which gives it a power-to-weight ratio of 248.5hp/tonne. While the R3 may not feel especially aggressive off the line, it delivers predictable and consistent performance, something that should appeal to newer riders or those using it as a daily sport bike. That said, in a segment now populated with sharper and more advanced machines, the R3 stands as a relatively more approachable alternative, especially for newer riders.
Autocar India’s testing standards
Before conducting our performance tests, we check and maintain tyre pressures based on the manufacturer’s recommendation and ensure the motorcycle has a full tank of fuel. The motorcycle is then tested in a controlled environment, and the data is collected via highly accurate GPS-based timing equipment.
