Japanese motorcycle manufacturer Yamaha is expanding its product line in the Indian market with the R2, which will later be exported to other countries. The YZF-R2 is a sportbike positioned between the YZF-R15 and YZF-R3, according to MotorBeam.

The Yamaha YZF-R3 sportbike for the Indian market. Photo: Yamaha

Yamaha expects the R2 to continue the success of its sibling, the R15, in India. The R15 sportbike has played a significant role in developing and building the image of small-displacement sportbikes since its launch in 2008. Upon its release, the R2 will be sold alongside the R15, not as a replacement.

The R2 is expected to feature a 200cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine. This marks Yamaha's first use of a 200cc engine. While power output has not been announced, the R2 is anticipated to outperform the R15's 155cc engine, which produces 18.4 horsepower and 14.2 Nm of peak torque.

The new R2 model is being developed in India and will be manufactured at the company's Chennai plant. Yamaha R2 is scheduled for launch in 2026. It will compete with rivals such as the KTM RC 200 and Hero Karizma XMR 200.

In addition to the R2, Yamaha is working to expand its product lineup, with plans to introduce the NMax 155, adding another option alongside the Aerox 155.

Minh Vu