2024 Yamaha YZF-R3 Preview

Yamaha stays in the entry-level sportbike game with its YZF-R3 in 2024, however the model will receive no significant updates. Last year’s $5,499 price tag carries over as well, with Team Yamaha Blue or Vivid White colors to choose from.

The R3 joined the growing pack of small-bore sportbikes for the 2015 model year and quickly became a front-runner among the competition. The high-quality amenities, comfortable cockpit, and solid class performance put it second in our four-bike comparison later that year.

Shortcomings in suspension and handling were addressed during the update in 2019 when engineers added a new KYB fork and triple clamp and stiffened the rear suspension settings. Handlebar position was changed and the fuel tank was lowered as well. They also upgraded to Dunlop GPR-300 tires, addressing all issues we had with the first iteration of the platform. We found handling to be markedly better thanks to the changes during our first outing on the 2019 model, making the R3 one of the most fun and capable bikes in the segment.

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Updates have been sparse since then, with some bodywork changes introduced in 2022, some unique colors here and there, and a WorldGP 60th Anniversary edition.

Even though things remain the same once again in 2024, the enjoyable 321cc twin engine and lithe chassis configuration continue to make the R3 a blast of a bike on surface roads and the track.