There are rumors that Yamaha's proud super sports YZF-R25 and R3 will undergo a model change for the first time in a long time! It will be the first redesign since the 2019 model, and it seems that it will have a sharp appearance that is typical of the YZF-R series. What's more, is there a possibility that the displacement of the YZF-R3 will be increased? Let's get to the truth!
First makeover in six years! Hopes for improved aerodynamic performance
The YZF-R25 is a "superbike you can ride every day" that can be used for everything from city riding to sports riding, while the YZF-R3 has an increased engine displacement and more room to maneuver. These two motorcycles, which are popular among beginners for their ease of handling and excellent foot placement, are set to undergo a model change for the first time in a long while.
Debuted in 2014, the design was revamped in 2019 to resemble the MotoGP machine of the time. It also gained an inverted fork, but there have been no major changes since the 2023 model was released to comply with exhaust noise regulations. Meanwhile, the YZF-R7 and YZF-R15/125 have appeared with edgy, aerodynamic designs that are a hot topic.
Then came the rumor about the next R25/R3. It is expected that it will be redesigned with a sharper cowling and a sharper look like the R7 and R125, making it even more attractive!
YZF-R25 [YAMAHA] Photo is CG created by the editorial department. Expected release date: Fall 2024.
YZF-R25 [YAMAHA 2024] Equipped with a 249cc parallel twin-cylinder engine with 35PS. The current model features a cowl with emphasized curves and two large LEDs, reminiscent of the MotoGP machine of the time, the YZR-M1.
Will the suspension be strengthened and a color LCD screen be introduced?
With an increased bore and stroke, it performs just like a 400 class motorcycle!
We hope that the next YZF-R25/R3 will be updated not only in terms of design, but also in terms of riding.
The current model has a φ37mm inverted fork and a standard axial mount caliper on the front, but the new model would like to have a φ41mm large diameter fork and radial caliper. This is the same equipment as the European version of the R125, and is an item that we would like to see on the R25/R3 as well. By the way, the meter on the current R25/R3 is a monochrome LCD, but the European version of the R125 has a color LCD. We would like to see this as well.
There is also a possibility that the displacement of the R3 will be increased. The R3 is equipped with a 320cc engine with a bore that is 8mm larger than the R25's 60mm bore x 44.1mm stroke, and produces 42PS. The lightness and power of the 250 is attractive, but since the R3's debut, there have been more rivals in the 400 class.
In order to catch up with these models, it is likely that the bore and stroke will be enlarged, and the displacement may be increased to about 350cc. We expect to see an increase in power in addition to the ease of riding that they boast.
Compared to the other YZF-R series, the R25 looks a bit older/R3. will the long-awaited model change finally unify the package with the latest version!
YZF-R3[YAMAHA]Photo: CG produced by the editorial department; expected arrival date: fall 2024.
YZF-R125/R15[YAMAHA 2024] Introduced in Japan in October 2023, this is the younger brother of the 155cc and 124cc models. The equipment differs depending on the country of destination: the Japanese version has a φ37mm inverted + axial mount, while the European version has a φ41mm inverted + radial mount.
The R125/15 has a headlight in the center, with long, narrow positions on both sides. The tail cowl is also an aerodynamic type.
The Japanese version of the R125/15 has a monochrome LCD meter, while the European version has a color LCD. It can also be connected to a smartphone.
Will the successor to the YZF-R1, the R9, be released?
As previously reported in this magazine, we expect the YZF-R9 to be announced soon. The R9 is a full-cowled version of the MT-09, which is equipped with an 888cc in-line 3-cylinder engine in an aluminum frame. It appears that the MT-09, which combines a high maximum output of 120PS with a lightweight body weighing 193kg, will be given high-grade suspension and an aggressive riding position. It has been officially announced that the production of the top-of-the-line R1 road version will end with the 2025 model, and it seems that the R9 will be the next high-end model, and the R7 will play a role as a bridge between the R25/R3.
The YZF-R9 [YAMAHA] photo is a CG created by the editorial department. It is based on the MT-09, which boasts the fighting power of a supersport and a wealth of electronic controls. It is the largest 3-cylinder SS, surpassing Triumph.
Since its debut in 1998, it has reigned as one of the leading liter inline-4 super sports cars. The 2025 model comes standard with carbon winglets.
YZF-R7 [YAMAHA] Based on the in-line twin-cylinder MT-07, it will be released in 2022. It is easy to handle and has a low price of less than $6730.70, making it an affordable option.
I hope to see more cruisers in the 250cc class!
The Rebel 250 has been a best-seller for six consecutive years. It is the only domestic cruiser in its class, and currently has no rivals.
So we have high hopes for the Bolt 25. It is a cruiser equipped with the YZF-R25's parallel twin engine, and the CG shows a bobber style of the hall of fame Bolt. Furthermore, with the heart of the YZF-R3, it can easily be made into a 400. It can also be a rival to Kawasaki's Eliminator (400), which is also equipped with a parallel twin engine. We would love to see it released, including the 250 version of the Eliminator!
BOLT25 [YAMAHA] The photo is a CG created by the editorial department. It follows the style of the ever-popular Bolt. It is also the successor to the Drag Star 250, a hit model that Yamaha sold in the past.
It is equipped with the YZF-R25 DOHC 4-valve parallel twin-cylinder engine. If this is the base, it could be a fun cruiser.
REBEL250 [HONDA] The classic name was revived and released in 2017. It features an easy-to-handle water-cooled single cylinder engine, a unique style, and easy-to-reach position.
ELIMINATOR 400SE [KAWASAKI] Equipped with the Ninja 400's water-cooled parallel twin-cylinder engine in a unique chassis, it will be released in 2023. The addition of a 250 version is expected.
