The purported test mules of new 2019 Yamaha R25 /2019 Yamaha R3 have been spied testing in Indonesia,
courtesy of Macantua and IWB. It certainly appears that Yamaha could conduct its stage
debut this year in the archipelago.
As reported earlier, the 2019 Yamaha R25 is likely
to feature an R1-inspired design (similar to the Yamaha R15 V3.0), along with
possibly a new chassis and tech features. While the updated R25 won’t make it
to the Indian shores, the cosmetic/mechanical upgrades will trickle down to the
2019 Yamaha R3, the successor to the model sold in India.
Drawing from the spy media, the 2019 Yamaha R25 will
feature cosmetic updates, similar to the 2019 Yamaha R15 V3.0, to the fairing
with a faux RAM air intake dividing the inward-tilting twin LED headlights. The
motorcycle also features new upside-down front forks (likely from Kayaba) with
a golden finish. While these upgrades will come to the India-spec 2019 Yamaha
R3, it is debatable whether Yamaha will offer USD forks on the Indian model.
The new generation Yamaha R25 is also likely to
feature an all-digital instrument cluster in place of the semi-digital unit on
the current model. According to the 2 July report, the new R25 will reportedly
also features VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) technology and a slipper clutch.
Moreover, the new-gen model is likely to get new colour options and body
graphics.
The current generation Yamaha R25 sources power from
a 249 cc, liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder, DOHC, fuel injected motor that is
capable of developing a maximum power of 36 PS at 12,000 rpm, while generating
a peak torque of 22.6 Nm at 10,000 rpm, mated to a 6-speed transmission. On the
other hand, the Yamaha R3 employs a 321 cc, twin-cylinder engine that produces
42 PS of power and 29.6 Nm of torque, paired to a six-speed gearbox.
A diamond-type chassis underpins both the bikes,
while suspension components include telescopic front forks and a linkage-type
rear mono-shock with preload adjustability. The Yamaha R25 rivals the Kawasaki
Ninja 250 and the Honda CBR 250RR, while the Yamaha R3 rivals the Kawasaki
Ninja 300, Benelli 302R, KTM RC 390, and the TVS Apache RR310.