springs now reside up front, and oh boy, what a profound difference in stability and comfort. The fork upgrade also highlights the rear, which now feels soft in comparison. That chapter will come soon, once my wallet allows.
RIDING Living in Wellington, wind is a daily adversary, especially in Spring with the intense equinox period. My previous Hornet 600 had the extra power for gusty days, but what the R3 lacks in brute force, it makes up for in aerodynamics. The fairing isn’ t just aesthetic; ducking low provides real relief from winds and has the benefit of helping to eke out more kilometres per litre. It is not immune from the cross winds though. I was recently on the Remutaka Hill when I was reminded of the region’ s ferocity; a sudden gust pushed me across the lane, right into the path of potential oncoming traffic. Fortunately, the road was empty. Before that scare, the ride was pure joy, the R3 corners beautifully if the gearbox is kept busy. There’ s no room for laziness, unlike with larger-capacity machines,
rather the R3 rewards shifting precision. Cost was always paramount in my buying decision. Full comprehensive insurance comes in at just $ 260 a year, and the running costs all suit my 70km daily stints up and down State Highway 2. I don’ t need 200 horsepower for this commute. I need a nimble steed that slips easily between queues of cars and handles errands with agility. The R3’ s slim build is perfect for inner city navigation and slipping into parking spots where bigger bikes struggle to squeeze. The character of the parallel twin is a little bland, and while the engine doesn’ t shout, it’ s always willing and smooth. Shifts from first to second are smooth if the revs are right; shortshifting seems to tempt hitting neutral, but it’ s a minor gripe that hasn’ t soured my experience. The Yamaha R3 might be marketed toward new riders, but for the seasoned, pragmatic motorcyclist, it’ s a small machine that punches above its weight— practical, enjoyable, and styled with just enough flair to make it feel bigger than it really is.
36 KIWI RIDER