Automobile Desk: In view of the increasing demand for sporty and performance bikes in the Indian two-wheeler market, Yamaha is preparing to launch a new supersport motorcycle in India. Official pre-booking of this bike named Yamaha R2 has started across the country. Interested customers can book it online or through the nearest dealership by paying a token amount of just ₹10,000.
The most special thing about this booking process is that the company is giving the option of 100% refundable booking to the customers. If a customer changes his mind after the official launch of the bike or after seeing the features, his entire token amount will be refunded. The refund process will be started from the first week of September. Additionally, customers who have made pre-bookings will be given priority at the time of delivery.
Engine and power output
The company is going to position this new offering in the entry-level premium segment. It is believed that it will have a single-cylinder engine with a capacity of more than 200cc, which will be capable of generating a maximum power of about 25 bhp. Special attention has been paid to its power-to-weight ratio to improve riding dynamics and speed.
Talking about other competing models present in the market, the total weight of KTM RC 200 is 160 kg, while Hero Karizma XMR comes with 163.5 kg. Yamaha is aiming to keep the weight of its R2 lower than both these bikes, which is expected to provide more agile handling and better acceleration.
Lineup changes and positioning
This new bike will not replace Yamaha's existing R15 series, but will be placed in the premium slot above the R15. However, with the arrival of the new model the company may make some changes in its existing portfolio. There is talk that the R15 M and R15 S variants based on the older generation may be phased out.
Ex-showroom prices for the R15 range currently range from ₹1.57 lakh to ₹1.98 lakh.
India will become global manufacturing hub
Yamaha will manufacture this new motorcycle in its plant located in India only. Apart from sales in the domestic market, India will be made a major export hub for this model, from where it will be shipped to other international markets.
This will not only help in keeping the cost of parts low locally, but spare parts are also expected to be easily available to the customers.
Potential price and competition
The estimated ex-showroom price of Yamaha R2 in the Indian market is likely to be between ₹2.00 lakh to ₹2.20 lakh. With its sporty design, light frame and power of around 25 bhp, this bike can give a tough challenge to already established bikes like Hero Karizma XMR and KTM RC 200.
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