At the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, Yamaha unveiled a concept parallel-twin, 250cc bike called the R25 which in all probability will be its quarter-litre offering for the Indian market in 2014
Among the glitz and glam of the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show a concept bike was unveiled, which would make many Indian two-wheeler enthusiasts heart skip a beat or two. As after prolonged speculation and rumour, Yamaha finally showcased a concept 250cc called the R25, which will be part of its 2014 line-up of motorcycles. Powering the bike will be a 249cc, parallel twin engine which would be liquid cooled and feature a fuel injection. No power figures has been announced by the Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer as of now but said that the powerplant would be mated to a six-speed transmission.
In terms of design, the R25 has been heavily influenced by Yamaha’s M1 MotoGP machine and it looks a scaled down iteration given the racing livery and the Akrapovic exhaust system. This will delight most of the Indian two-wheeler buyers who have an everlasting love affair with fully faired motorcycles. One can also notice very aggressive riding position akin to its superbikes, while the tail section has been chiselled for a sporty look and gels well with the split seats. The bike features tubular chassis, telescopic fork suspension in front and employs monoshock suspension at the rear. Disc brakes have been provided at both front and rear, whether it would sport ABS remains uncertain.
The R25 has been basically conceived for traditional markets like Japan and Europe which has witnessed an economic slowdown owing to which many bikers prefer small capacity motorcycles. Also Yamaha announced that it would be retailed at emerging markets like Southeast Asia which includes our country also. The tuning fork brand hasn’t revealed any tentative launch dates but we feel it should hit our shores by mid-2014. In the Indian two-wheeler market, the R25 would be positioned against traditional Japanese rivals like the Honda CBR 250R and Kawasaki Ninja 300 along with the up-coming KTM RC 390 and should be priced around Rs 2 lakh. So all you Yamaha buffs it’s time to rejoice and save up the moolah.
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