A Dream Come True

HAVING TAKEN A HIATUS FOR A COUPLE OF years I have rejoined Bike India recently. I couldn’t have asked for a better welcome than a dream-come-true long-term motorcycle. To be precise, something powerful, well-built, nimble, preferably blue in colour and with a Yamaha logo on the tank.

And here I am writing my first long-term report of the Yamaha YZF-R3, the bike that deeply impressed me when I rode it at the Buddh International Circuit when it was launched. To be honest, with the Indian Motorcycle of the Year award, regular magazine closing and the usual work travel I’m still trying to squeeze out time to go on a long ride. For now, it’s the obvious pick for my daily commute to office.

The sporty, leaning forward stance might seem intimidating, but swing a leg over it and the R3 offers a naturally comfortable riding position. A refined 321-cc motor and agile handling are added bonus. The smooth liquid-cooled in-line twin perfectly adapts to city commuting and doesn’t even overheat to roast your thighs.

The comfortable seat and neutral handling ensure there is not much fatigue even after fighting the ruthless rush-hours twice a day. With most of the body weight in the central section of the bike, it cuts through traffic as comfortably as it carves corners.

In the last few weeks of daily use, I really can’t recall any major shortcoming. Just that its large fairing and extended rear-view mirrors make parking the R3 in crowded parking lots quite a task.

The bike now needs some much deserved TLC which I shall attend to soon. And since the weather is right for leisure motorcycling, the overdue long ride shall also happen. Hopefully, you’ll read about them both in my next report. Till then, keep riding.

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