Yamaha and its sports legacy have always kept the audience on edge because with every new iteration, and they have managed to exceed expectations. One such motorcycle that has managed to etch its place permanently in automobile history is the RD350. And after much anticipation and rumors, a worthy successor of RD350 is finally ready to hit the road in the near future; that is XSR 300. A retro-styled motorcycle that heavily draws inspiration from the Yamaha YZF R3, Yamaha XSR 300 is scheduled to be launched almost simultaneously with its younger sibling, Yamaha XSR 155 – both targeted at the Asian market.
What We Know So Far About Yamaha XSR 300
Yamaha has teased the XSR 300 from early 2016, ever since a Japanese motorcycle magazine managed to get some spy shots and featured a render of it. The bike will harness rounded headlamps, a fully digital instrument cluster, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and circular taillights, according to Young Machine.
However, these were just features noticed at first glance. Yamaha XSR 300, as it should be mentioned, is a café racer bike (the whole XSR segment is in actuality), while the XV models are scrambler motorbikes. However, considering the widespread appeal of the RD350 in India, this bike is sure to get positive reviews if it genuinely does incorporate the trademark features of its spiritual predecessor.
Expected Launch and Price Of Yamaha XSR 300
Since Yamaha has decided to bring India a lineup that comprises premium motorbikes to become one of the major manufacturers, Yamaha XSR 300 is just the tip of the iceberg. So far, an exact date (or month for that matter) is not confirmed regarding its launch. However, it will undoubtedly see the light of the open market in India soon after the launch of XSR 155. Yamaha XSR 300 price in India will fall in the ballpark of 3-3.6 lakhs INR. At this cost, it will easily be one of the highest-priced 300 cc bikes in India.
Key Features of Yamaha XSR 300
- LED Headlamps
- LED Taillamps
- Lightweight Chassis
- Stylish Retro Design
- Powerful Twin-Cylinder Engine with Electric Fuel Injection
- Mesh Gearbox
- Dual-Channel ABS
- Dual-Purpose Tyres
- Slipper Clutch
- Digital Instrument Cluster
Engine & Performance
XSR 300 borrows the performance DNA from its more renowned siblings YZF R3 and MT-03; therefore, fully set to ace this field. Its 321 cc DOHC engine includes an electronic fuel injection system, liquid cooling, 4-stroke transmission, 8 valves, and a parallel twin-cylinder. An assist and slipped clutch mechanism is a further highlight, also one of the mandatory inclusions of any cafe racer bike. A peak power output of 42 PS and 30 Nm torque mark this highly potent beast of a bike. Another silver lining is its power delivery which can be tweaked for the user’s comfort and benefit. With a 6-speed gearbox that optimally uses its powertrain, Yamaha XSR 300 top speed is 170 km/h with little to no hiccups while accelerating.
Suspension and Brakes
With front Telescopic Fork and rear Mono-shock suspensions, Yamaha XSR 300, as any cafe racer bike should, emphasizes braking duties. Dual-channel ABS (Anti-Braking System) has become standard. It is further equilibrated with dual disc brakes (298 mm in the front wheel and 220 mm hydraulic disc in the rear). Yamaha XSR 300 may well be termed the new RD350.
Outlook
Diamond frame chassis is confirmed as per the early published render in Young Machine, which is also a trustworthy source of information. Like many of its near and far siblings from the sports heritage lineup, XSR 300 is primarily based. Its essential styling cues are borrowed from its superior elder siblings with more potentials, namely Yamaha XSR 700 and XSR 900.
The retro design is not inherently it’s own; also drawn from the other, more potent ones. The whole retro series, specifically the sports heritage models, have two distinct features that have withstood the test of time – one is around headlamp. At the same time, the other is a single seat with premium finishing. Therefore, it is also expected to incorporate these trademark components. The same can be said for LED tail lamps that highlight the bike’s rear. Dual-purpose tires might also be another worthy addition.
Dimensions
Yamaha XSR 300 is rather heavy (162 kgs), but all for the right reasons. A high ground clearance of 170 mm, similar in measurements with other models of the XSR segment. An 11-liter fuel tank sits in the front. The Yamaha XSR 300 mileage is yet to be confirmed. However, it is likely to be in the vicinity of 30-35 kmpl. Considering the other XSR models and their low fuel efficiency, it’s a justifiable number.
Specs
This beast of a bike from Yamaha is highly customizable. Therefore, aside from specifications like the fully digital instrument cluster, LED lights, hazard light, electric start/stop, pillion footrest, alloy wheels. Yamaha brings forth a whole gamut of accessories that can be applied to all of the bikes of the XSR series. Hence, every XSR model, including Yamaha XSR 300, can be modified.
Rivals-in-frame
Although XSR 300 is much anticipated, the Indian automobile market already has some beloved bikes that have retained their prominence in the long run and are unlikely to undergo a shift in popularity. Therefore, upon official launch, Yamaha XSR 300 is more than like to face tough competitions from Husqvarna Vitpilen 250, Husqvarna Svartpilen 250, Benelli Leoncino 250, RF Continental GT 650, Honda CB350 & KTM Duke 390.
PROs of Yamaha XSR 300
- Potent engine
- Premium looks
- Solid Build
- Naked design
- Modern technologies
- Vast servicing range
- DOHC engine
CONs of XSR 300
- Delayed launch
- Comparatively pricier
Final Take
Regardless of all the news and rumors “blowing in the wind,” it does not change the fact that only the people themselves will be the true judge of Yamaha XSR 300 upon launch. XSR 300, ticks in all the right prerequisites that a newly launched motorbike requires to host a grand success.
If you’re interested in superbikes, you may also like to check this list of Best Superbikes in India.
