Recently launched YZF-R3 is here, in the ring of battle that is ready to compete with the leader of the segment, Kawasaki Ninja 300 that was introduced in the global market in 2013. Both the motorcycles come under the similar segment of quarter-liter, but still sustain a huge difference in terms of performance, style and looks. Will Yamaha YZF R3 overtake the Ninja 300? in terms of price and performance. Let's take a brief look over the technical specs and special features of the newly assigned quarter-liter motorcycle in the Indian market.
Design and Looks:
Yamaha YZF R3:
The Yamaha YZF R3 is featured with an attractive look that carries a front fairing, impressive tail section, front fairing, muscular fuel tank, windshield and twin headlights that give a combative look to the motorcycle. The Yamaha R3 has an analog and digital instrument console with a multifunctional meter that includes fuel capacity, gear-position, fuel capacity, etc. The R3 gets two color options with an R3 sticker that give a stunning look to the motorcycle.
Kawasaki Ninja 300:
Despite being having aggressive and angular look, the Ninja 300 is on the top position in the segment. The front broad section carries twin angular headlights, sharp fairing, windscreen and muscular fuel tank that looks like cherry on the cake. The Ninja 300 more sharper than YZF R3. Moreover, the tail section carries minimalist work that looks very impressive. Well, the green team has paid lots of attention to give it an aggressive look to the motorcycle. Moreover, it also gets an analogue and digital instrument console.
Technical Specifications:
Yamaha YZF R3:
The YZF R3 is built on an all-new frame and engine. The motorcycle sports a liquid-cool, four-stroke and DOHC motor, carrying an engine displacement of 321cc that draws 41.4 BHP of power at 10,750 RPM and 29.6 Nm of torque at 9000 RPM. The middleweight motorcycle is inspired by the racing DNA of R1M in terms of engine unit and blessed with Yamaha’s R series technology that comprises of direct-drive camshaft, low-friction cylinders, forged pistons, etc. The motor is programmed with fuel injection technology.
Kawasaki Ninja 300:
There is little bit difference in the YZF-R3 and Ninja 300, in terms of power output. The Ninja 300 is powered by a 296cc, parallel twin, four stroke and liquid-cooled engine that returns 39 PS of power at 11000 RPM and 27 Nm of torque at 10000 RPM. And, the motor is equipped with fuel injection system that helps in the power output. The engine is mated to a six speed transmission. With excellent throttle response, Ninja 300 gives a top speed of 170 KMPH.
Brake, Suspension and Chassis:
Yamaha YZF R3:
Everything is pretty much standard about the YZF R3, but the lack of Anti-lock Braking System and Slipper Clutch might disappoint the riders as the manufacturer has not blessed it with ABS, even is not in an option. While, the Ninja 300 is featured with the both ABS and Slipper Clutch. Furthermore, the R3 gets a 298mm disc at front and 220mm disc brake at the rear. The motorcycle is built around on a steel frame that provides adequate stability on the track. The lightweight frame sits on a 41mm KYB front telescopic suspension and rear KYB single shock. The YZF-R3 carries a kerb weight of 169 KG.
Kawasaki Ninja 300:
The braking duties in Ninja 300 are taken care by a front single 290mm petal disc with single balanced actuation dual-piston and rear single 220mm petal disc with dual-piston. And, it has front 37mm telescopic suspension and gas-charged five-way adjustable preload setup at the rear. The motorcycle is built around on a steel-tube diamond frame and it weighs 172 KG. Ninja 300 is featured with Anti-lock Braking System that provides adequate stopping power.
The Yamaha YZF-R3 has received a price tag of Rs. 3,25,000 and the Ninja 300 is being sold in the country at Rs. 3,64,000.