Yamaha MT-03 - Top 5 Highlights

Yamaha is preparing to launch the MT-03, a motorcycle borrowing design elements from its sibling, the MT-07. The MT-03 promises a ride with its styling, engine, and features. Here are 5 things that you need to know before the motorcycle launches soon. 

Design

Taking inspiration from the MT-07, the MT-03 has a front end with sharp edgy lines and creases. The front looks sharp with the DRLs flanking above the headlight. The tank is quite bulky from the POV of the rider. The fuel tank extensions add to the look giving it a muscular vibe. The rear end has a split seat and is reminiscent of its sibling, the Yamaha R3.

Engine 

At the core of the MT-03 is a 321cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine identical to the one the Yamaha R3. Generating 40.4 bhp and 29.4 Nm of torque that is slightly lower than the Yamaha R3. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox . It does miss out on slipper clutch and traction control system as seen on the Yamaha R15 V4.

Underpinnings

Weighing in at 169 kg, the MT-03 is expected to be agile and easy to handle and has a steel tube frame. It has a low seat height of 779 mm while offering a ground clearance of 160 mm. The seat, although being low, is quite accommodating for taller riders. The bike gets a USD fork with 130 mm travel and  mono-shock unit with 125 mm travel. Additionally, dual-channel ABS complements the front disc and rear disc, enhancing safety.

Indian Launch 

Yamaha plans to introduce the MT-03 to the Indian market on December 15 via the Completely Built Unit (CBU) route from Thailand initially. This strategic move, facilitated by the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and Thailand, is expected to offer competitive pricing. However, as demand grows, Yamaha may consider the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) route. The bikes will be available at select Blue Square dealerships.

Pricing and Rivals

Priced at an expected Rs 3.5 lakh, the MT-03 positions itself below its fully-faired sibling, the R3. This pricing places it slightly higher than the KTM 390 Duke, which costs Rs 3.10 lakh (ex-showroom). The MT-03 is poised to face competition from rivals like the KTM 390 Duke, Triumph Speed 400, and the TVS Apache RTR 310.