MyMoto Bike Profile
Yamaha YZF-R3
321cc · ~42 hp · seat 780 mm · ~$5,500
Light approachable twin-cylinder sport bike offering genuine learning value, low seat, and enough performance for normal roads. Ideal rider: A trained beginner or early rider who values lightness and sport feel over strong midrange.
Photo: Dennis Bratland, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Quick specs
| Engine | 321cc |
| Power | ~42 hp |
| Wet weight | ~169 kg |
| Seat height | 780 mm |
| Price (new) | ~$5,500 |
| Typical used range | $3500 - $5500 (used, condition varies) |
| Years | 2019-present |
| Licence fit | US beginner;A2 |
Figures are catalog approximations and vary by model year and market; always verify the exact spec and price for your region.
Who it is for
New riders who want sport styling and light manageable performance.
Where it fits best: New riders; sport-bike styling; commuting; weekend roads; riders wanting less weight than 500-class rivals.
Who should skip it
Avoid if long-trip comfort or upright posture matters more than looks. Insurance and ergonomics should be checked for younger riders.
Can create regret when highway/midrange needs exceed the 321cc platform or supersport speed is expected.
The honest reality
- For beginners
- Excellent beginner sport reality when training and insurance are addressed.
- In the city
- Good for a faired sport bike.
- On the highway
- Capable but revvy; overtaking reserve is lower than 450/500 twins.
- Engine character
- 321cc parallel twin; smooth, rev-focused, and friendly.
- Owning it
- Yamaha reliability/support are strengths; fairings, chain, tires, insurance, and modifications matter.
Buying used
Check fairings/mounts, controls, alignment, tires, chain, brakes, service, exhaust/tune changes, and drops. Typical asking range: $3500 - $5500 (used, condition varies).
Bikes riders cross-shop
Kawasaki Ninja 500/400 · KTM RC 390 · Honda CBR500R · Aprilia RS 457.
Does the Yamaha YZF-R3 actually fit you?
A spec sheet cannot weigh your height, budget, roads, experience, and the regret risks that show up after buying. MyMoto's free advisor can. Tell it about yourself and see whether this bike, or something better for you, comes out on top.
Chat with the MyMoto advisor
MyMoto is an early beta. Always verify current specs, pricing, licence rules, insurance, and local availability before buying any motorcycle. Figures are sourced from our verified catalog and may vary by model year and market.
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