The Yamaha YZF-R3 has been the stepping stone into the brand’s R World of sportbikes since its debut in 2015, and it gets revamped for 2025 with new bodywork and instrumentation to enhance its style and practicality.
2025 Yamaha YZF-R3
The 2025 YZF-R3 is freshened with styling inspired by Yamaha’s YZR-M1 MotoGP racebike, including a bolder front fairing, sleek new side panels, and a sporty new tailsection with signature R-series tail wing. Slimmer side covers match a narrower seat to provide a shorter reach to the ground, and seat height is 30.7 inches. The YZF-R3’s relaxed riding position is otherwise unchanged.
New LED lighting adds a more contemporary appearance, including a new single projector-type headlight flanked by four-element position lights, along with a new LED taillight and turnsignals.
Instrumentation is provided by new LCD gauges that now display connected smartphone information along with vehicle data. Yamaha Motorcycle Connect connectivity works in conjunction with the free Y-Connect app to connect the bike to your phone, which includes the ability to view incoming calls and message notifications. A new USB-A socket is located next to the display to provide power for phone charging or heated gear.
No changes were announced for the R3’s revvy 320cc parallel-Twin engine, but the fuel-injected powerplant now includes Yamaha’s Assist & Slipper clutch that reduces clutch effort and eases engine-braking forces for smoother downshifts from the 6-speed transmission. The R3 should still be able to achieve 110 mph.
For suspension, the R3 retains its 37mm inverted KYB fork and KYB monoshock, the latter adjustable for spring preload. Brakes are also unchanged from the 298mm front-disc setup with a 2-piston caliper and 220mm disc with 1-piston caliper on the rear wheel, both backed up by standard ABS. Curb weight is listed at 373 lb, and Yamaha claims the bike sips fuel at a 56-mpg rate.
Added up, Yamaha says the 2025 YZF-R3 puts “an emphasis on lightweight, nimble handling, and real-world practicality” and is “a perfect choice for everyone from first-time riders to experienced track day enthusiasts.”
The 2025 Yamaha YZF-R3’s sporty package has a retail price of $5,499 in your choice of Team Yamaha Blue, Matte Stealth Black, or Lunar White/Nebular Blue. It will arrive at dealers in December.
2025 Yamaha YZF-R7
Yamaha’s popular YZF-R7 returns unchanged for 2025, still powered by the 689cc CP2 parallel-Twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft for a V-Twin-like exhaust note. The fully faired sportbike will hit dealers in December priced at $9,199 in your choice of Team Yamaha Blue or Matte Raven Black.
Learn more about Yamaha’s complete lineup at the Yamaha Motorcycles website.
Check out more new bikes in Rider’s 2025 Motorcycle Buyers Guide
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Source: RiderMagazine.com