With a new look for 2026, fans of the R-range will instantly recognize the new R3 as a legitimate Yamaha supersport with its new glaring twin-eye face featuring integrated powerful headlights and LED position lights, flanking an M1-inspired air duct positioned above new aerodynamic winglets.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Yamaha YZF-R3: R WORLD IS CALLING.
Introducing the new 2026 Yamaha YZF-R3…
Yamaha’s celebrated entry into R World, the YZF-R3 is powered by a high-revving 321cc engine with an emphasis on lightweight, nimble handling and real-world practicality. A perfect choice for everyone from beginning riders to experienced track day enthusiasts, the R3 strikes the right balance of thrilling Supersport performance and everyday comfort in a fun, sporty package that shows off its distinctive R-Series pedigree from every angle.
Next generation R-series styling, advanced twin cylinder engine and ultra-light chassis—the perfect entry into R World.
R-World is calling. The R3 is the ultimate lightweight Yamaha supersport inspired by Yamaha’s MotoGP M1 race bike featuring a compact agile chassis, a high-revving 321cc engine that provides outstanding acceleration and an aerodynamic race-derived bodywork including winglets
With a new look for 2026, fans of the R-range will instantly recognize the new R3 as a legitimate Yamaha supersport with its new glaring twin-eye face featuring integrated powerful headlights and LED position lights, flanking an M1-inspired air duct positioned above new aerodynamic winglets.
Multi-function LCD instrumentation and smartphone connectivity unlock a world of information about the R3 using MyRide, while high-specification 37 mm inverted front forks ensure precise suspension feel and feedback for every ride, and a slimmer ergonomic profile makes putting your feet down easy.
2026 Yamaha YZF-R3 Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- 321cc DISPLACEMENT
- 373 lb WET WEIGHT
- 30.7 in SEAT HEIGHT
- 54.3 in WHEEL BASE
- Lightweight, compact, 321 cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve (4-valves/cyl), fuel injected, inline-twin cylinder engine. The engine has been designed to provide solid performance right across the rev range, with very linear throttle response, low vibration & excellent fuel economy.
- Downdraft style, compact combustion chamber
- The YZF-R3 uses regular 87 octane gas.
- Valves are 26 mm (intake) and 22.5 mm (exhaust) in diameter.
- Valve adjustment interval is every 42,000 km.
- Automatic cam chain tensioner.
Next Generation R-Series Styling
Inspired by the flowing aerodynamics of Yamaha’s YZR-M1 MotoGP® race bike, the 2026 YZF-R3’s distinctive R-Series pedigree is recognizable at a glance with its aggressive front fairing, sleek side panels and a sporty tail section with signature R-series tail wing.
Iconic 70th Anniversary Edition Styling
(OPTIONAL)
Celebrate seven decades of motorsports excellence with the 2026 YZF-R3 70th Anniversary Edition. Throwback white and red speed block livery, gold Yamaha Tuning Fork emblems, and Anniversary Edition badge combine with the R3’s sleek, modern R-Series design to commemorate the 1955 birth of Yamaha Motor Company in standout style.
Modern LED Lighting
Advanced LED lighting adds a modern look, including a single projector-type headlight flanked by four-element position lights, along with LED tail lights and turn signals.
Smartphone Connectivity
The 2026 YZF-R3 features Yamaha Motorcycle Connect (Y-Connect) smartphone connectivity which works in conjunction with the free-of-charge Y-Connect app (available for iOS and Android) to enable a direct connection between motorcycle and smartphone. Y-Connect capability for the R3 includes the ability to view incoming call, email and message notifications. Additional useful functions include monitoring and notifying the rider or other contact of motorcycle technical issues, and also the ability to track and record key motorcycle ride data within the app, including distance covered, fuel consumption, acceleration, motorcycle location and much more.
LCD Instrument Display
An LCD instrument cluster displays connected smartphone information along with vital vehicle data. There is also a USB-A socket located next to the display providing convenient power for phone charging or heated gear.
Advanced Assist & Slipper Clutch
The Assist & Slipper clutch utilizes an assist cam and slipper cam to help inhibit excessive engine braking for a smooth, easy-to-handle feeling during downshifts while also reducing the amount of force required to pull the clutch lever for less hand fatigue.
Exceptional Ergonomics
A narrow seat and slim side covers improve the rider’s foot reach to the ground while retaining the YZF-R3’s relaxed Supersport riding position.
Aerodynamic integrated winglets
Aerodynamic efficiency has been taken to the next level on the R3 with integrated winglets situated below the M1-style air duct to set a new standard in the lightweight supersport category. Airflow is now managed and directed rapidly around the sleek new full fairing and up towards the R-Series tail for a race-engineered aero effect.
Twin-eye headlights and position lights
The R3’s face oozes next-generation RSeries DNA. With powerful projector headlights and strong LED position lights integrated into the sleek new fairing design, the R3 exudes style and sophistication.
Slim ergonomic profile
The R3’s new slim ergonomic profile boasts a thinner overall seat width and slimmer side panels. This makes it even easier for the rider to put their feet down and feel completely in control at every stop.
New A&S clutch
The R3’s premium specification includes an Assist & Slipper clutch to give the rider maximum control under hard deceleration, while also preventing engine over-rev and rear-wheel hop resulting in more predictable and controllable handling.
Yamaha Celebrates 70th Anniversary
Yamaha Motor Company marked its 70th anniversary earlier this year and the celebrations are set to continue into 2026 as the Supersport range will be available in a new, eye-catching and evocative 70th Anniversary colourway.
Based on the iconic colours of the limited edition, race-focused 1999 R7, the white and red colourway evokes memories of Yamaha’s statement-marking, revolutionary Supersport models of the 1990s.
The 70th Anniversary colours were first seen earlier this year when the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team and Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP team ran the one-off livery at the TT Circuit Assen as Yamaha’s 70th celebrations kicked off. The Yamaha Racing Team and YART also adorned the 70th anniversary colours at the prestigious Suzuka 8 Hour.
The occasion was also marked by Yamaha’s teams in the FIM Superbike World Championship and FIM Supersport World Championship, who ran liveries inspired by the colours at the Circuito de Jerez in October.
For 2026, the R125, R3, new Yamaha R7, and the award-winning Yamaha R9 will be available in the white and red 70th anniversary colours, combining Qualitative Pearlish White and vivid sporty red and black with historic Yamaha speedblock graphics.
2026 Yamaha Motorcycles and Scooters Range Updates
Yamaha celebrated its 70th anniversary in July 2025, and ever since its foundation the mission has been to create innovative machines, which transcend boundaries and offer each Yamaha rider the feeling of deep satisfaction and intense excitement born from encountering something of exceptional value, quality and performance – KANDO.
For the 2026 model year the market leading Adventure segment goes from strength to strength with the introduction of the upgraded Ténéré 700 World Raid featuring a restyled body and new colour as well as next generation electronic control technology and premium enhanced suspension. 2026 also sees the introduction of the new WR125R – an exciting new model that offers the next generation of riders an accessible entry point into the exciting world of adventure riding.
Yamaha’s Sport Heritage range pays homage to the company’s most iconic designs from a previous era, while at the same time giving the rider the very latest engine, chassis and design technology. Flagship of the range is the outstanding XSR900 GP, a truly stunning machine inspired by Yamaha’s Grand Prix winning race bikes from the past. Now available in a new Legend Yellow colour alongside the current Legend Red, this bike blends authentic retro race-bike charisma with up to the minute performance.
Driven by characterful crossplane technology engines and equipped with wind-beating bodywork and state of the art electronic control technology, Yamaha’s TRACER 9 and TRACER 7 models are built to go the distance in comfort. For 2026 the remarkable Y-AMT system (Yamaha Automated Manual Transmission) is now featured on the TRACER 7 & TRACER 7 GT models. Following its successful introduction in 2025 on the TRACER 9, TRACER 9 GT & TRACER 9 GT+, this clutchless system elevates the Sport Touring experience.
Yamaha’s Sport Scooter lineup delivers premium, sporty, and dynamic scooters designed to offer MAX riders comfortable and enjoyable rides. The TMAX has set the standard in the maxi scooter category for 25 years, while the NMAX continues to be a best seller, complementing the range alongside the versatile XMAX. For 2026, all TMAX, XMAX and NMAX models are now offered in Yamaha’s race-inspired Icon Blue colour that reinforces their dynamic and sporty attitude – and the premium Tech MAX and Tech MAX+ range comes in an exclusive new Crystal Graphite. The new NMAX 155 Tech MAX is equipped with the innovative YECVT (Yamaha Electric Continuously Variable Transmission) technology that delivers an exciting new riding experience. YECVT enables you to instantly select ‘Sport’ or ‘Town’ engine running modes to suit the situation – and there’s also a new downshift function for increased acceleration and stronger engine braking.
2026 Yamaha YZF-R3 Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Engine
- Lightweight, compact, 321 cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve (4-valves/cyl), fuel injected, inline-twin cylinder engine. The engine has been designed to provide solid performance right across the rev range, with very linear throttle response, low vibration & excellent fuel economy.
- Downdraft style, compact combustion chamber
- 4 valves per cylinder to enhance low-to mid-range torque
- straight intake path into the combustion chamber for excellent power output
- The YZF-R3 uses regular 87 octane gas.
- Valves are 26 mm (intake) and 22.5 mm (exhaust) in diameter.
- Isonite surface treatment on the valve stems for improved durability & wear resistance
- valves feature carbon cutters on the valve stems to help reduce carbon build-up during slower speed operation
- Valve adjustment interval is every 42,000 km.
- Automatic cam chain tensioner.
- reduces mechanical engine noise & maintenance
- Lightweight, all aluminum DiASil cylinder (die cast all aluminum cylinder with silicone content).
- offers outstanding cooling performance / heat dissipation for consistent power delivery
- reduces weight since there are no heavy liners & cylinder is made completely of aluminum
- Offset cylinder design.
- cylinder is offset 7 mm relative to the crankshaft (to the exhaust side)
- reduces frictional losses between the pistons & cylinder wall during the power stroke
- improved power output & improved fuel economy
- 180-degree crankshaft with uneven firing order.
- helps reduce “pumping losses” for maximum power output
- provides an interesting exhaust note
- Gear driven “primary coupled-force” balancer shaft.
- reduces engine vibration for excellent rider comfort
- Lightweight forged aluminum pistons.
- provide fast engine response
- reduce weight
- reduce mechanical vibration for excellent durability
- Carburized connecting rods (carburizing is a form heat treating).
- excellent strength & durability
- “Closed loop” 32 mm throttle body fuel injection system.
- system uses an idle speed controller (ISC) to maintain a steady idle regardless of engine temperature
- 12-hole injectors for optimum fuel atomization
- system is tuned to provide excellent rideability and linear throttle control.
- close-loop system uses an oxygen sensor to “sniff” spent exhaust & automatically adjust the fuel / air ratio for reduced emissions
- Airbox utilizes a viscous paper-type air filter.
- Compact, 6-speed transmission.
- ratios specially designed to suit the character (torque & power) of the engine
- 5th & 6th gears are overdrive gears to reduce engine rpm at highway speeds
- Compact, wet-type, multi-plate slipper clutch.
- ensures consistent, positive shifting
- light, easy clutch lever pull.
- Low-mounted, 2-into-1 exhaust system.
- utilizes a short design muffler fitted with a 3-way catalyzer to reduce exhaust emissions
- low mounted design centralizes mass for agile handling & lightweight feeling
- Maintenance-free transistor controlled ignition (TCI).
- produces a strong spark for fast starts
- provides precise ignition timing / mapping for optimum engine performance at any rpm
- Easy access spin-on type oil filter & engine oil drain plug.
- fast & easy oil changes
- oil change interval is 5,000 kms after the initial 1,000 km break-in oil change
- Air Induction System (AIS… not ram air).
- reduces harmful exhaust emissions
- injects fresh air into exhaust ports to fully burn any unburnt fuel, further reducing exhaust emissions
Chassis
- Lightweight, diamond-type, high-tensile, steel frame
- features optimized rigidity balance for light, agile handling with excellent stability
- engine is a stressed member of the chassis, allowing a lighter, more compact main frame design
- frame features a mix of both solid & rubber engine mounts
- Electrostatic paint helps prevent corrosion
- The riding position is one of the most important features of the R3. Despite its supersport styling, the R3 offers excellent rider comfort thanks to its upright riding position.
- Key chassis geometry figures include:
- 1380 mm (54.3″) wheelbase
- 25 degrees of rake & 95 mm of trail
- 50 / 50 front to rear weight distribution
- chassis dimensions and shape have been designed to centralize mass & lower the centre of gravity to provide the rider with light, agile handling
- Tapered, long design, high tensile steel swingarm.
- lightweight design reduces unsprung weight for superior suspension performance
- excellent rear wheel traction & control
- 37 mm KYB upside-down (inverted) fork offers 130 mm (5.1″) of wheel travel.
- plastic chip guards help prevent damage to the fork tubes & seals
- Adjustable Monocross link-less rear suspension with 125 mm (4.9″) of wheel travel.
- features a single KYB rear shock with 7 levels of preload adjustability
- adjustable design allows rider to tailor preload settings to match load & road condition
- ABS-equipped 298 mm floating front disc brake squeezed by a twin-piston caliper.
- provides solid stopping power
- brake force & feel are tailored towards new riders
- ABS-equipped 220 mm floating rear disc is squeezed by a lightweight, single-piston, slide-type caliper.
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS).
- controlling ECU & hydraulic unit are combined into a single compact unit to reduce weight & centralize mass
- when ABS system senses impending wheel lock-up (via active type wheel sensors) it regulates hydraulic braking pressure to the point just before the wheel or wheels lock-up
- ABS provides excellent control under hard braking or when braking on wet, slippery or loose surfaces
- Lightweight, cast-aluminum 10-spoke mag wheels.
- front wheel size is MT2.75-17 fitted with a 110/70-17 tire
- rear wheel is MT4.00 fitted with a 140/70-17 tire
- Lightweight hollow axles front & rear.
- Clip-on style handlebars.
- provide a supersport image but offer a comfortable, more upright riding position since they are mounted above the top triple clamp
- Handlebar position is 22 mm lower than previous model
- 14-litre fuel tank with styling adopted from R1 and R6 models.
- offers a slim design with great knee grip
- “reserve” portion of the tank is 3 litres (low fuel light will illuminate)
- tank is steel with plastic covers, which can reduce costs in the event of damage
- Separate rider & passenger seats with low 780 mm (30.7″) seat height.
- offer excellent comfort
- narrow-design rider seat makes it easier to touch feet flat on the ground
- passenger seat can be removed & replaced by the optional Genuine Yamaha Accessory rear seat cowl if desired
- Feature-rich liquid crystal (LCD) multi-function meter.
- data includes speedometer, bar tachometer, fuel meter, odometer, tripmeters (2), fuel trip meter, gear position, flasher indicators, clock, temperature meter, fuel economy, oil trip meter, ABS indicator, adjustable shift timing light and high beam indicator
- Warning lights: oil pressure and engine trouble
- back lighting is adjustable
- Race inspired full fairing.
- Inspired by larger R-series models
- Design translates to a 7 percent reduction in drag and an 8 km/h (5 mph) increase in top speed
- Race-derived air intake duct directs flow to the radiator
- LED headlights with updated design.
- Brilliant rear LED tail light
- unique running / brake light display
Details
- Helmet holder
- Lightweight aluminum footrests & mounts
- Threaded mounts on swingarm for rear race stand
- Excessive lean angle sensor… if unit is on its side the engine will shut down
- Lockable steering
- Folding mirrors with chrome plating
- Stylish rear fender extension helps reduce splash in wet conditions
- Lightweight, low-maintenance sealed battery (batteries should be charged during winter storage)
- Yamaha Diagnostic Tool coupler is located under the passenger seat. This system can significantly reduce diagnostic time in the event of a problem.
2026 Yamaha YZF-R3 – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ 5,499 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $7,999 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer for Pricing in GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
ENGINE
| Engine Type | 321cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC inline twin-cylinder; 4-valves per cylinder |
| Bore x Stroke | 68.0mm x 44.1mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Delivery | Fuel injection |
| Transmission | 6-speed; multiplate wet clutch; with Assist & Slipper clutch |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.7 gal |
CHASSIS
| Suspension/Front | Inverted telescopic fork; 5.1-in travel |
| Suspension/Rear | Monocross single shock, adjustable preload; 4.9- in travel |
| Brakes/Front | 298mm hydraulic disc with ABS |
| Brakes/Rear | 220mm hydraulic disc with ABS |
| Tires/Front | 110/70-17 Dunlop® Sportmax GPR-300F |
| Tires/Rear | 140/70-17 Dunlop® Sportmax GPR-300R |
DIMENSIONS
| LxWxH | 82.3 in x 28.9 in x 44.9 in |
| Seat Height | 30.7 in |
| Wheelbase | 54.3 in |
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 25.0° |
| Trail | 3.7 in |
| Max. Ground Clearance | 6.3 in |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.7 gal |
| Fuel Economy** | 56 MPG |
| Wet Weight*** | 373 lb |
OTHER
| Warranty | 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty) |
*Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) shown. Does not include tax, title, prep or destination charges. Actual prices set by dealer.
**Fuel Economy is estimated.
***Wet weight includes the vehicle with all standard equipment and all fluids, including oil, coolant (as applicable) and a full tank of fuel. It does not include the weight of options or accessories. Wet weight is useful in making real-world comparisons with other models.
2026 Yamaha YZF-R3 – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details
| Engine | Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8 valves (4 valves/cyl.), inline twin |
| Displacement | 321 cc |
| Bore and Stroke | 68 x 44.1 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Delivery | 32 mm throttle body F.I. |
| Estimated Fuel Consumption± | 23.5 kpl / 66 mpg (Imp.) |
| Lubrication | Wet sump |
| Ignition / Starting | TCI / Electric |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Final Drive | O-ring chain |
Chassis
| Suspension (Front) | 37 mm upside-down fork / 130 mm (5.1″) wheel travel |
| Suspension (Rear) | Adjustable Monocross / 125 mm (4.9″) wheel travel |
| Brakes (Front) | 298 mm floating disc / twin-piston caliper / ABS equipped |
| Brakes (Rear) | 220 mm disc / single-piston caliper / ABS equipped |
| Tires (Front) | 110/70-17 |
| Tires (Rear) | 140/70-17 |
Critical Data
| Length | 2,090 mm (82.3″) |
| Width | 734 mm (28.9″) |
| Height | 1,140 mm (44.9″) |
| Wheelbase | 1,380 mm (54.3″) |
| Rake / Trail | 25 degrees / 95 mm (3.7″) |
| Ground Clearance | 160 mm (6.3″) |
| Seat Height | 780 mm (30.7″) |
| Fuel Capacity | 14 litres (3.1 Imp. gal.) |
| Wet Weight | 169 kg (373 lb) |
| Colour(s) | Team Yamaha Blue Matte Stealth Black Lunar White/Nebular Blue |
2026 Yamaha YZF-R3 – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Engine
Engine type 4-stroke; 2-cylinder; Liquid-cooled; DOHC; 4-valves
Displacement 321cc
Bore x stroke 68.0×44.1 mm
Compression ratio 11,2:1
Lubrication system Wet sump
Clutch type Wet; Multiple Disc
Ignition system Electric
Starter system TCI
Transmission system Constant Mesh; 6-speed
Final transmission Chain
Fuel system Fuel Injection
Maximum power 30.9 kW (42.0PS) @ 10,750 rpm
Maximum torque 29.5N・m(3,0kg-m) @ 9,000 rpm
Chassis
Frame Diamond
Front suspension system Telescopic fork
Front travel 130 mm
Rear suspension system Swingarm
Rear travel 125 mm
Front brake Hydraulic single disc brake, Ø298 mm
Rear brake Hydraulic single disc brake, Ø220 mm
Front tyre 110/70R17M/C 54H Tubeless
Rear tyre 140/70R17M/C 66H Tubeless
Caster angle 25°00′
Trail 95 mm
Dimensions
Overall length 2,090 mm
Overall width 735 mm
Overall height 1,140 mm
Seat height 780 mm
Wheel base 1,380 mm
Minimum ground clearance 160 mm
Wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank) 169 kg
Fuel tank capacity 14.0L
Oil tank capacity 2.50L
R3
Screen & Connectivity
Smartphone Connectivity MyRide
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
