Yamaha YZF-R3 - 2015 Specifications and Reviews

The 2015 Yamaha YZF-R3 is an approachable lightweight sportbike designed for entry-level riders and commuters seeking affordable thrills. Known for its nimble handling, fuel efficiency, and manageable 321cc liquid-cooled engine, the R3 delivers genuine sport bike performance without intimidating complexity. Its sharp styling and responsive chassis make it ideal for new riders progressing to middleweight machines.

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General information

CategorySport
Year2015
ModelYamaha YZF-R3
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Greenhouse gases97.4 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption4.20 litres/100 km (23.8 km/l or 56.00 mpg)
DrivelineConstant mesh
Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
IgnitionTCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. Fuel Injection with YCC-T and YCC-I
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x Stroke68.0 x 44.1 mm (2.7 x 1.7 inches)
Compression11.2:1
Engine typeTwin, four-stroke
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter220 mm (8.7 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter298 mm (11.7 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc
Rear tyre140/70-M17
Front tyre110/70-M17
Rear wheel travel124 mm (4.9 inches)
Rear SuspensionKYB single shock
Front wheel travel130 mm (5.1 inches)
Front Suspension41mm KYB telescopic fork
Trail94 mm (3.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)25.0°

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.60 litres (0.17 quarts)
Fuel capacity14.00 litres (3.70 gallons)
Wheelbase1,379 mm (54.3 inches)
Overall width719 mm (28.3 inches)
Overall length2,090 mm (82.3 inches)
Overall height1,135 mm (44.7 inches)
Seat height780 mm (30.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc166.9 kg (368.0 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Factory warranty1 Year Limited Factory Warranty
InstrumentsMultifunction digital and analog instrumentation features: programmable shift light, digital speedometer, analog tachometer, dual tripmeters with miles-on-reserve function, odometer, water temp gauge and lights for neutral, high beam, low fuel and turn signals.
StarterElectric
Color optionsTeam Yamaha Blue/Matte Silver, Raven, Pearl White

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

42 hp
Peak Power
5.6s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track65%
City78%
Cornering80%
Daily Riding72%
Touring38%
Passenger45%

Rider Profile

Best ForIdeal for beginners and newer riders, plus experienced riders wanting a light, forgiving sport commuter. Approachable power with an assist/slipper clutch.
PurposeA small-displacement full-fairing sportbike built for spirited canyon runs, twisty backroads, city commuting and occasional track days.
Rider FitSporty but manageable ergonomics: 30.7in seat, low 373lb wet weight and moderate clip-on lean make it easy to flick and easy to reach the ground.
CharacterNimble, revvy and confidence-inspiring. The 321cc twin loves to be wound out, rewarding smooth inputs while staying gentle enough not to intimidate.
Not Ideal ForNot for riders chasing big highway power, long two-up touring comfort, or any off-road use. Taller/heavier riders may find it cramped over distance.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2015 Yamaha YZF-R3 Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 780mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2015 Yamaha YZF-R3, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

⚠ Safety Recalls (4)

VISIBILITY Oct 2020 · 20V611000

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (Yamaha) is recalling certain 2015-2020 YZF-R3, 2020 MT03 and 2018-2020 XMAX scooters. Condensation or other contaminates may adhere to the rear reflector lens reducing its effectiveness.

Risk: A less reflective rear reflector increases the risk of crash.

Remedy: Yamaha will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear reflector, free of charge. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may contact Yamaha customer service at 1-888-266-3085. Yamaha's number for this recall is 990139.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH Feb 2017 · 17V112000

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (Yamaha) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Yamaha YZF-R3 motorcycles. Water can enter and corrode the ignition switch resulting in an unexpected engine stall.

Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Yamaha will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch subassembly, free of charge. The recall began March 9, 2017. Owners may contact Yamaha customer service at 1-800-962-7926. Yamaha's number for this recall is 990112.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY Feb 2017 · 17V111000

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (Yamaha) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Yamaha YZF-R3 motorcycles. In the affected motorcycles, engine vibration can cause the fuel tank mounting bracket to contact the fuel tank, which overtime, may result in the tank leaking fuel.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of a ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Yamaha will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank bracket. The fuel tank will be inspected and replaced if necessary. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 9, 2017. Owners may contact Yamaha customer service at 1-800-962-7926. Yamaha's number for this recall is 990112.

STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR Sep 2015 · 15V593000

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (Yamaha) is recalling certain model year 2015 YZFR3 motorcycles manufactured January 1, 2015, to August 31, 2015. The affected motorcycles may have an incorrectly manufactured upper triple clamp (handle crown) that may crack while riding.

Risk: If the upper triple clamp fractures, a loss of steering control may result, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Yamaha will notify customers, and dealers will replace the upper triple clamp with a new one, free of charge. The recall began on October 16, 2015. Owners may contact Yamaha's customer service at 1-800-962-7926. Yamaha's recall number is 990099.

Source: NHTSA. View all Yamaha recalls →

Rider Reviews

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