Yamaha MT03 Professional Viewpoint
Rajesh Kumar have developed a deep connection with the world of motorcycles.
After riding the
Yamaha MT03 for a full week we are finally able to advise you on whether to
spend Rs. 4.60 lakh on it.
Overview
After reviewing a
ride of the Yamaha 300cc twins from Thailand and briefly using the R3 I was
really excited to get my hands on the MT03.
After all I believe
that naked/streetfighter motorcycles best fit my riding style and habits.
My level of
enthusiasm fluctuated and I ultimately decided whether or not this was worth
Rs. 4.60 lakh. Lets investigate.
Style and Excellence
Mistaking a tiny bike
for its larger brother is somewhat normal but it doesnt happen very often.
And with the MT03 that is precisely what occurred a couple
of times.
Its youthful sporty attractive and unique. However there may be conflicting views
because of how much its design resembles that of the MT15.
The dimensions seem slightly smaller than those of a 300cc
motorcycle.
The MT03 feels and looks small which might not be a good
thing. See the next part for more on the
compact feeling aspect.
One of the best bikes
in the 300cc class with outstanding construction is the MT03.
Yamaha has
essentially established a standard in this regard from the paint job to the
switch cubes and their feedback panel fitment weld and other areas.
Comfort and Ergonomics
This is where you can
feel the MT03s compactness in addition to seeing it.
The MT03 feels rather
claustrophobic while the rider is in the saddle.
This is a result of
the riders limited seat real estate and the handlebars narrowness.
The MT03s lack of room would be considerably more noticeable
if you are six feet or taller because your knees would probably collide with
the tank recess.
However the MT03
feels submissive in a way once you understand the rider triangle and you
navigate around it.
We found that riding
with the elbows somewhat out and holding the handlebar toward the edge was one
way to make this bike more comfortable for us.
Execution and Management
The Yamaha MT03 and
R3 share an engine as we already know.
Consequently it also possesses the same property.
Additionally we appreciate this 321cc parallel twin motors
adaptability.
By regulating the
clutch and accelerating gently it allows you to ride in peace in the city.
Once on the freeway you can also run through the entire
transmission without the engine experiencing any stress.
The MTs engine naturally operates at both extremes of the
spectrum.
The usability
quotient is extremely high because to the robust bass and midrange.
The engine performs well overall and the transmission
provides smooth shifts
Because of the large
gearing configuration the highest gear you will need to shift if you are riding
in a city is third.
On the highway the MT03
feels most at home when driven between 5000 and 8000 rpm.
Shifting gears
opening the throttle letting the meaty exhaust scream and going for top speeds
are all quite enjoyable.
After you adjust to
the MT03s narrow handlebar it feels light and nimble.
Even when you have
to move it in confined spaces or when you change directions it remains true.
But adjusting to its
claustrophobic rider triangle requires deliberate effort.
A wider handlebar would be preferable for the bike.
Its current configuration causes some pressure on your
wrists and elbows which is first a little uncomfortable.
Yamaha has nearly
perfected the MTs suspension and braking.
Despite not being adjustable its brakes have good bite
feedback and feel.
It doesnt take a forceful squeeze to reduce the speeds
because the lever is positioned perfectly.
It reduces the bikes
speed predictably and with minimal interference from the ABS.
under Mumbai we
traveled on the MT under a variety of road conditions.
From the spotless freeways to the dilapidated pot hole filled
local roads.
The MTs springs never felt rigid or backbreaking. The arrangement is simple enough to absorb
all of the uneven roads and bumps without actually putting any strain on your
back.
This also makes the bike highly practical for riding in the
city or even on a Sunday when you want to go to the Ghats.
If the chance arises
we would be delighted to test the MT03 on a touring basis.
Technology and Features
The MT03s feature set
is similarly basic to that of its faired counterpart.
Comparing it to some of its 300cc competitors makes it seem
nearly antiquated.
The MT has ABS a side
stand sensor an LCD with all the required readouts and LED lighting.
Its all about the feel good element especially when youre
paying a hefty asking price even though you dont tinker with features when a
motorcycle is fun enough to ride.
Efficiency of Fuel
Because the MT03 and
R3 have the same engine and nearly the same weight their fuel efficiency
ratings are also comparable.
Along with 29 kmpl
the MT03 has a maximum range of 410 km with its 14liter fuel tank.
However depending on your riding style and weather the
number may vary slightly.
Is It Worth Purchasing?
In the 300cc class
the Yamaha MT03 is presumably the only naked motorcycle with a twin cylinder
engine.
It has flawless build quality and performance and arrives in
India through the CBU channel.
Particularly in terms of power delivery and linear character
the engine seems reliable and compatible both in urban settings and on
highways.
It also enjoys being revved.
We appreciate how it manages feels light maneuvers around corners and
displays its athletic side when called upon.
Its usability and
ease of life are highlighted by the well tuned suspension and brakes.
However for a few
reasons the MT03s overall performance is inconsistent.
The characteristics come first. It hardly receives any and the ones that are
available are quite simple and are found on motorcycles that are far less
expensive.
The asking price follows.
It is not at all aggressively priced or cheap at Rs. 4.60 lakh.
We would advise you
to look at some of the considerably more sophisticated and reasonably priced
motorcycles in the 300cc segment.
However the Yamaha MT03
would be a wonderful option if money is not an issue and you want to possess a
dependable performance focused purists motorbike.
Author Bio Rajesh Kumar
Rajesh Kumar is an avid bike rider and passionate motorcycle reviewer based in Pune Maharashtra India.
Over the past two years Rajesh has explored diverse terrains across India gaining first hand experience with various bike models in real world conditions.
His deep enthusiasm for biking combined with technical knowledge allows him to provide insightful reliable and engaging reviews that help fellow riders make informed decisions.
resource
https://www.bikewale.com/yamaha-bikes/mt-03/
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All image and featured by bikewale
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