Yamaha MT-03 showcased at EICMA 2015

Amid the high displacement drool inducers gracing the EICMA floor, Yamaha has showcased the MT-03 as well. The entry level performance naked is powered by a 321cc, in-line twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-valve engine that makes 41.4 BHP @ 10,750 rpm and 29.6 Nm of torque @ 9,000 rpm i.e. the same output figures as its faired counterpart - the R3.

Transmission to the rear wheel is through a 6-speed manual gearbox. The diamond frame is supported by telescopic front forks (130 mm of travel) with a 573 mm long asymmetrical swingarm mounted to the monoshock absorber at the rear. Braking duties are carried out by a 298 mm disc up front and a 220 mm disc at the rear.

Rivals (if / when launched in India) will include the Kawasaki Z250, DSK-Benelli TNT 300 and the yet to be launched TVS-BMW G 310 R. Anticipated single pot rivals like the Hero HX250R and Bajaj Pulsar CS400 will also feature as alternatives, along with KTM's ever-popular Duke 390.