Yamaha has just launched its 2018 YZF-R3 at Rs 3.48 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) and is available in two colour options – Racing Blue and Magma Black. The biggest change on the bike is its Euro-IV (same as BS-IV) compliant engine. It also gets dual-channel ABS and Metzeler M5 tyres.

On the performance front, the Yamaha YZF-R3 continues to use the 321cc, parallel-twin, four-valve engine that makes 42hp at 10,750rpm, and 29.6Nm of torque at 9,000rpm. This engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox.

Suspension duties are handled by the same 41mm Kayaba forks up front and preload-adjustable shock at the rear. The motorcycle still misses out on USD forks, which is offered by its significantly cheaper competitors. It gets a 110/70 R17 tyre at the front and a 140/70 R17 tyre at the rear, each mounted on 17-inch alloys. The kerb weight for the R3 is 173kg.

The instrument cluster remains the same and displays information like current and average fuel consumption, the coolant temperature and two trip meters.

In terms of competition, the R3 marginally undercuts the Kawasaki Ninja 300, which is priced at Rs 3.60 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).