action from first to second can be clunky, and I still regularly smash neutral, and the rev limiter, if I’ m not positive with the shift. The brakes are‘ OK’. They are still a bit spongy even with the new braided lines I’ ve had fitted. I think they are fine for beginners, but a little underwhelming if you’ ve ridden better. The sound of the parallel twin is a bit like a sewingmachine compared to the Hornet. But get past the sound and the performance is great. I mean it really is a blast to ride, and realistically at 100km / h you can’ t hear much anyway. Build quality is solid overall, but I can see the cost-cutting, like cheap levers and indicators with no tactile click. Nothing that affects function, just little things that are noticeable.
LIVING WITH IT After 3000km, it’ s been faultless. Reliable, cheap to run, and easy to live with. Will it match the legendary, old-school Honda reliability? Probably not, but that’ s a high bar. Would I recommend it? Absolutely. It has enough free-revving power for experienced riders, but is very forgiving for learners. I know that the Ed will agree, after riding for so many years, I had lost the desire for riding for pleasure, reserving it as a means of travel only. So, yes, I bought the R3 for commuting, but this little machine has rekindled my desire to go for a ride on weekends, not because i have somewhere to go, but rather just‘ because’. The Rimutaka Hill has become a treat for high lean angles without breakneck speeds— just pick your day as the light weight in Wellington’ s wind can be exciting … not in a good way.
FINAL WORD The Yamaha R3 is easy to own, cheap to run, great looking, and fun. Downsizing means you miss the grunt, but you gain agility and simplicity. And when I walk past it, I still look for excuses to ride, which I think says it all. I’ m enjoying my motorcycling again.
42 KIWI RIDER