Yamaha Might Showcase MT-03 at Auto Expo

In a bid to expand its presence in the entry-level sports bike segment, Yamaha is ready to bring the naked version of its recently launched YZF-R3, named the MT-03. Reportedly, the bike might be unveiled at the upcoming Auto Expo and will hit Indian shores by mid-2016. The company might price it below Rs. 3 lac and bring it here via CKD route. The bike will compete against premium naked offerings such as KTM 390 Duke, Kawasaki Z250, Benelli TNT 300 and the upcoming BMW G310 R.

First showcased at EICMA 2015, Yamaha MT-03 will boast two major changes from its faired sibling - the elimination of front fairing and a tweaked steering geometry. This naked machine will use the same 321cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin engine from the YZF-R3 without any change in performance. This power plant produces 41.4bhp of power at 10,750rpm along with a maximum torque of 29.6Nm at 9,000rpm.



Just as the YZF-R3, the MT-03 is built around a diamond frame with telescopic shock absorbers at the front and mono shock suspension system at the rear. In terms of design, the bike will sport a more upright riding stance and fuel tank mounted air intake pods. It also features a digi-analog instrument console, dual channel ABS will provide stopping power through a 298mm disc up front and 220mm disc at the rear. The motorcycle runs 10-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels with 120/70 and 140/70 section tyres at the front and rear, respectively.

The Yamaha MT-03 is designed to cater to the rapidly growing compact sports bike segment in the country. This naked street fighter is expected to be priced around Rs. 20,000-30,000 less than its faired sibling.