Yamaha has completed 70 years in the world of performance motorcycles, and to mark this milestone, the company has rolled out a special edition of one of its most popular supersport machines—the R3 70th Anniversary Edition. This global-release model celebrates Yamaha’s racing legacy dating back to 1955 and arrives in limited numbers, making it a collector-focused offering for enthusiasts across several markets, including the United States.
A Tribute Design Inspired by Yamaha’s Racing Past
For this anniversary edition, Yamaha has given the R3 a classic look that reflects its roots. The bike wears a white and red speed-block paint scheme, a pattern seen on many legendary Yamaha race machines. The contrast-heavy livery is paired with a full black underbody, giving the motorcycle a clean yet aggressive race-oriented stance.
The overall design remains familiar to the standard R3 but carries a sharper personality. It features an aggressive front fairing, sculpted side panels, and a sporty tail with the signature R-series wing design. The lighting setup continues to be fully LED, including the projector-style headlamp, taillight, and turn indicators, adding a modern touch to the retro-inspired colour theme.
Engine and Performance That Stay True to the R3 DNA
While the look celebrates the past, the performance stays aligned with the current-generation R3. The anniversary edition uses the 321cc liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder engine, a unit well known for its smooth power delivery and high-revving nature. The engine produces 40.4 bhp at 10,750 rpm and 29.5 Nm of torque at 9,000 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox that uses an assist-and-slipper clutch for lighter shifts and better control during aggressive downshifts.
The mechanical setup is unchanged, ensuring the bike continues to offer the balanced, approachable performance that makes the R3 a favourite among new and experienced riders alike.
Premium Hardware for Better Handling
Yamaha has equipped the motorcycle with a gold-finished USD front fork and a rear monoshock, a combination tuned for agility and confidence at corner entry. Braking performance comes from a 298mm floating front disc and a 220mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS for stable stopping power.
The bike runs on 10-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, giving it predictable handling whether in city traffic or on twisty roads. Yamaha’s focus on balance and precision is clear, as the R3 remains one of the most agile motorcycles in its class.
Smart Features for Everyday Convenience
Alongside its performance and styling updates, Yamaha has added features that blend practicality with technology. Riders get a USB-A charging port, making long rides more convenient. The bike also supports Y-Connect, Yamaha’s smartphone connectivity platform. Through this system, riders can view call alerts, messages, emails, and monitor important ride data such as fuel usage, trip distance, acceleration, and even the motorcycle’s location.
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Expected India Launch Timeline and Pricing
Yamaha has not yet introduced the 2026 version of the R3 in India. The current 2025 model is priced at ₹3.39 lakh (ex-showroom). The updated 2026 model is anticipated to reach Indian showrooms around mid-2026, likely with a higher price tag. If the 70th Anniversary Edition makes it to India, it will almost certainly be offered in limited numbers, making it a niche choice for collectors and Yamaha loyalists.
Final Thoughts
The Yamaha R3 70th Anniversary Edition blends nostalgic racing-inspired styling with the dependable performance of the contemporary R3 platform. With its special livery, premium hardware, and added connectivity features, this edition stands out as a meaningful tribute to Yamaha’s 70-year motorsport journey. For fans of the brand, it’s not just another variant—it’s a celebration on two wheels.
