It’s no secret that Yamaha has been developing the next-generation of the Yamaha R3. In fact, the 2019 Yamaha R25 test mule was spotted undergoing testing in Indonesia few months back, and, now, patent images of the 2019 R3 have emerged online.

The existing R3 is a good-looking motorcycle, but the Yamaha designers have pulled out the chisel to make the next-generation bike look even sharper, similar to the Yamaha R15 Version 3.0. It features a redesigned front panel with twin LED headlights, split by an air intake. Moving further, the fairing has also been redesigned and looks sportier than the older bike. The fuel tank is also a new unit with larger cut-out for the rider’s knee and also feature the trademark gills. Yamaha designers haven’t fiddled with the new R3’s tail section and also the alloy wheel design and the exhaust muffler are similar to the current motorcycle.

Another major change on the 2019 Yamaha R3 is the inclusion of USD fork. Whether Yamaha will offer the 2019 R3 in our market with inverted fork or replace it with conventional fork for cost-cutting (similar to the R 15 V3.0) remains to be seen. The patent images also confirm that the 2019 Yamaha R3 will retain the sporty, but comfortable riding stance and it doesn't look like it will be too committed like the new R15. Braking hardware appears to be the same with disc brakes on either ends and dual-channel ABS is standard.

It’s expected that the 2019 Yamaha R3 will carry forward the same 321cc motor as seen on the current bike. The liquid-cooled, parallel-twin powerplant develops 42hp and 29.6Nm of torque. However, there are reports that Yamaha engineers might update the engine with its Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and the upcoming bike might also get slipper clutch.

The 2019 Yamaha R3 is likely to make its global debut at the 2018 EICMA motorcycle show later this year. As for India, the next-generation R3 is likely to be launched by late 2019 and it will probably carry a small premium over the current R3, which retails for Rs 3.49 lakh (ex-showroom).