India and Yamaha have had a rollercoaster relationship when it comes to big bikes. After multiple attempts to bring premium motorcycles to the Indian market, Yamaha is once again set to reintroduce its larger displacement lineup. This time, the spotlight is on the much-anticipated Yamaha YZF-R7, expected to launch in India later this year.
Yamaha YZF-R7 India Launch: What’s the Motorcycle About?
The Yamaha YZF-R7 is a middleweight sportbike inspired by Yamaha’s flagship models like the R1 and R9. Built on the proven MT-07 platform, the R7 offers a mix of aggressive styling, track-ready performance, and everyday usability.
Key Features of Yamaha YZF-R7:
- Chassis & Weight:
- Based on a diamond frame
- Weighs 188kg (with fuel and oil)
- Suspension & Brakes:
- Front: 41mm USD forks (fully adjustable)
- Rear: Monoshock suspension
- Brakes: Radial calipers with dual-disc setup & dual-channel ABS
- Engine & Performance:
- Engine: 689cc, liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder, CP2 engine
- Power Output: 73bhp
- Torque: 67Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with a quickshifter
- Wheels & Riding Position:
- 17-inch wheels
- Clip-on handlebars for an aggressive, track-focused riding stance
Yamaha YZF-R7 vs. Rivals
Here’s how the R7 stacks up against its key competitors in India:
| Model | Engine | Power Output | Torque | Expected Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha YZF-R7 | 689cc, Twin | 73bhp | 67Nm | ₹10-11 lakh |
| Honda CBR650R | 649cc, Inline-4 | 86bhp | 57.5Nm | ₹9.35 lakh |
| Kawasaki Ninja 650 | 649cc, Twin | 68bhp | 64Nm | ₹7.16 lakh |
| Triumph Daytona 660 | 660cc, Triple | 95bhp | 69Nm | ₹11-12 lakh |
Expected Price and Launch Timeline
Yamaha has not officially revealed the pricing, but considering its global positioning, the YZF-R7 is expected to be priced between ₹10-11 lakh (ex-showroom, India). The launch is likely to happen in the latter half of 2024, with bookings opening soon after.
Key Takeaways
- Yamaha is bringing back its big bike lineup to India, starting with the YZF-R7.
- The R7 is based on the MT-07 platform and features an aggressive, fully-faired design.
- Expected to compete with Honda CBR650R, Kawasaki Ninja 650, and Triumph Daytona 660.
- Launch expected later this year, with a price tag of around ₹10-11 lakh.
Stay tuned for more updates on Yamaha’s return to the Indian performance bike segment! 🚀