Yamaha has launched the much-awaited R2 in India, introducing a new middleweight supersport motorcycle positioned above the R15 in the company’s line-up. Prices for the R2 start at Rs. 2.30 lakhs and go up to Rs. 2.53 lakhs, with the motorcycle offered in three variants.
The R2 brings an all-new 204cc engine, a new lightweight steel chassis and a broader set of electronic features compared with the R15. Yamaha will continue selling the R15 alongside the R2, as well as the MT-15 and XSR 155.
Pre-bookings for the YZF-R2 opened on August 12 for Rs. 10,000. The motorcycle will be sold exclusively through Yamaha’s Blue Square dealerships, with deliveries scheduled to begin from mid-September.
Each variant gets its own colour treatment, while the higher versions receive additional equipment and cosmetic changes.
The middle-spec R2 QS adds a bi-directional quickshifter and body-coloured alloy wheels. The range-topping R2 M gets adjustable suspension, adjustable brake and clutch levers, a faux-suede seat, keyless operation and additional model-specific detailing.
At the heart of the Yamaha R2 is an all-new 204cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. It uses a four-valve DOHC configuration and produces 26.5 PS at 10,000 RPM and 19.1 Nm at 8000 RPM.
Unlike the R15’s 155cc engine, the R2 unit does not use Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation system. Instead, the engine gets DLC (diamond-like carbon) valve coatings, a technology also associated with Yamaha’s larger performance motorcycles.
Other engine specifications include an 11.5:1 compression ratio, DiASil cylinder, electronic throttle and semi-dry sump lubrication. The intake system has also been tuned to provide a more engaging engine note, while Yamaha has given the motorcycle a heavier exhaust sound.
The engine is paired with an assist and slipper clutch. Yamaha positions the R2’s output as class-leading, while its power-to-weight ratio stands at 5.62kg/PS.
With a 149kg wet weight for the base variant, the R2 is claimed to be the lightest motorcycle in its segment. The R2 QS and R2 M weigh 150kg each. Yamaha also claims class-leading acceleration, while the motorcycle produces noticeably more power than the R15.
Lightweight steel frame replaces R15’s Deltabox chassis
The R2 does not use the R15’s Deltabox frame. Instead, Yamaha has developed a high-tensile steel tube diamond frame with four-point engine mounting.
The chassis itself weighs 14 kg and is claimed to be 2.8 kg lighter than the R15’s chassis. A pivot-mounted rear arm is used, along with a MotoGP-inspired aluminium die-cast swingarm. Yamaha says the chassis has been engineered to balance rigidity and low weight.
The motorcycle has a 1340 mm wheelbase, a 24.5-degree caster angle, 103mm caster trail and a 20 mm front fork offset. Yamaha has also worked on the front-to-rear weight distribution and rider positioning, with the objective of improving rider-bike integration during sporty riding.
The seat height is 810 mm, making it 5mm lower than the R15.
