Yamaha Motor Corp. continues to offer its compact supersport, the 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle, into the 2023 model year, maintaining the features that have made it a popular choice in recent years. The Tuning Fork Company introduces a new color option. At the same time, the 2022 World GP 60th Anniversary Edition is still available, complete with its race-inspired livery for those interested in a piece of history.
Regardless of your color, the 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle features aerodynamic bodywork inspired by the MotoGP M1 platform, which helps reduce drag. This design improves fuel efficiency, acceleration, and top speed.
The bike debuted in 2015 at Yamaha’s Yamaha’s Indonesian factory, with a configuration similar to the current model. The addition of ABS became available in 2017, and in 2018, a two-channel ABS and Euro 5 compliance were introduced, expanding the bike’s global market potential. The 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle is attractive for riders seeking strong performance, sportbike styling, and an affordable price tag.
2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle – Features and Specs
Performance and Capability
The 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle generates 42 horsepower and 21.8 lb-ft of torque from its parallel-twin engine. With a 180-degree firing order and a counterbalancer, the engine offers smooth, manageable power. The cylinder bores are slightly offset, reducing mechanical losses and improving output and fuel efficiency. Forged pistons reduce reciprocating weight, which helps the engine achieve quicker throttle response and better performance.
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With a bore of 68 mm and a stroke of 44.1 mm, the YZF-R3 has a displacement of 321cc, placing it at the lower end of the segment. Power is transmitted through a six-speed transmission and a chain-driven final drive, allowing the bike to reach a top speed of 112 mph, making it capable of handling even the fastest U.S. roads. Yamaha’s advanced technology guarantees smooth power delivery including impressive performance.
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Design
The 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle’s design draws heavily from Yamaha’s MotoGP race machines, offering a true race-inspired look. While it boasts superbike styling, the bike is designed to be easily modified for track days. The mirrors and rear mudguard, which houses the rear blinkers and license plate holder, can be easily removed, and the holes can be covered. LED lighting is positioned at the tail to enhance visibility and safety. The compact, sporty muffler helps centralize the bike’s mass for better handling.
Up front, an air vent between the headlights channels cooling air around the engine, helping prevent thermal buildup. The race-style bubble screen forces the rider into a more aggressive, forward-leaning position, ideal for track days. The digital display is housed behind the glass, keeping the instrument panel clean and protected from the elements. This compact meter provides critical information, including gear position, fuel economy data, oil change trip meters, and a clock.
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The handlebars are mounted to the upper triple clamp to encourage a more aggressive riding stance. While this position enhances performance, it may reduce comfort for riders looking to relax their arms, shoulders, and wrists.
The 3.7-gallon fuel tank is designed with a narrow rear and a broad top, providing comfort and support during longer rides. With a range of up to 207 miles per fill-up, the YZF-R3 can have longer journeys better than 2022 Yamaha YZF-R3. Additionally, the accessories catalog offers optional top cases for added storage space.
Chassis
The 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle is built on a sturdy Trellis-type frame. The engine acts as a stressed member to reduce the frame’s size, contributing to the bike’s lightweight and optimal balance. This lightweight chassis is ideal for urban commuting.
The front end is suspended by an inverted fork, offering 5.1 inches of travel, while the rear monoshock provides 4.9 inches of travel with preload adjustment. This setup offers a balanced mix of comfort and sporty performance.
At just 375 pounds, the 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle is equipped with a single 298mm front disc brake paired with a twin-piston caliper, while the rear features a 220mm disc and single-pot caliper. ABS is included on both brakes to ensure rider confidence.
The 17-inch, 10-spoke cast-aluminum wheels are shod with Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 tires for excellent grip. The steering head’s rake angle is 25 degrees, with 3.7 inches of trail, contributing to the YZF-R3’s agile, responsive handling, making it fun and engaging in twisty road sections.
2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle – Price and Availability
The 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle is priced at $5,499. Buyers can choose from several color options, including the Team Yamaha Blue, Midnight Black, and the new-for-2023 Phantom Purple. As part of Yamaha’s sportbike lineup, the Yamaha R3 features an upright riding position that improves ergonomics and reduces rider fatigue, making it an enjoyable choice for novice and experienced riders alike.
2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle – Competitors
The 2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle faces competition from several entry-level sportbike competitors. The Honda CBR300R, with its 286 cc single-cylinder engine, produces 30.4 hp, less than the YZF-R3’s 42 horsepower. The CBR300R’s price starts at $4,899 without ABS and $5,099 with ABS, making it a more budget-friendly option.
The Suzuki GSX250R, with its 248cc parallel-twin engine, produces only 24 horsepower, but it’s priced even more affordably at $4,999, putting it at the lower end of the sportbike market. The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is another competitor worth considering, offering more power but at a higher price point.
FAQ
Q: Is the Yamaha YZF-R3 fast?
The YZF-R3’s top speed is 112 mph, its 0-50 mph time is 5.2 seconds, and its quarter-mile time is 14.2 seconds.
Q: Is the YZF-R3 a beginner bike?
While the YZF-R3 is often considered a beginner bike due to its lightweight and manageable power, its performance and agility also appeal to experienced riders. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable commuter or a weekend fun bike.
Q: Is the YZF-R3 faster than the Ninja 400?
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is slightly faster than the YZF-R3, with a top speed of 117 mph and quicker acceleration. However, the difference in performance is small enough that rider skill can compensate for the gap.
Q: Can the R3 go on the highway?
With a top speed of 112 mph, the YZF-R3 can maintain highway speeds and accelerate when needed, making it suitable for highway travel.
2023 Yamaha YZF-R3 Sports Motorcycle – Technical Specifications
Engine
| Type | 321cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC inline twin- cylinder; 4-valves per cylinder |
| Bore x Stroke | 68.0mm x 44.1mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Delivery | Fuel injection |
| Transmission | 6-speed, multi-plate wet clutch |
| Final Drive | Chain |
Chassis
| Suspension / Front | Inverted telescopic fork; 5.1-in travel |
| Suspension / Rear | Monocross single shock, adjustable preload; 4.9- in travel |
| Brakes / Front | 298mm hydraulic disc with ABS |
| Brakes / Rear | 220mm hydraulic disc with ABS |
| Tires / Front | 110/70-17 Dunlop® Sportmax GPR-300F |
| Tires / Rear | 140/70-17 Dunlop® Sportmax GPR-300R |
Dimension
| L x W x H | 82.3-inch x 28.7-inch x 44.9-inch |
| Seat Height | 30.7 inches |
| Wheelbase | 54.3 in |
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 25.0° |
| Trail | 3.7 in |
| Maximum Ground Clearance | 6.3 in |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.7 gal |
| Fuel Economy | 56 mpg |
| Wet Weight | 375 lb |
| Warranty | 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty) |
| Color | Team Yamaha Blue; Midnight Black; Phantom Purple |
