Yamaha has filed a trademark application for the name YZF-R2 in India, indicating that the company may be preparing to introduce a new supersport motorcycle for the local market. If launched, the R2 would sit between the existing YZF-R15 and YZF-R3, effectively creating a new stepping stone in Yamaha’s fully faired lineup.
Will the Yamaha R2 replace the R15?
At present, Yamaha’s Indian supersport range has a clear gap. The R15 is a 155cc motorcycle positioned as an entry-level performance bike, while the R3 jumps straight to a 321cc twin-cylinder setup. A 200cc-plus R2 would neatly bridge this space, offering an upgrade path without the significant price and performance jump to the R3.
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Details about the R2 remain limited. There have been no test mule sightings or official confirmations regarding its engine configuration, hardware, or launch timeline. For now, the trademark filing is the only concrete indicator of Yamaha’s intentions.
Yamaha R15 is a cult classic
The Yamaha R15 continues to be a strong performer for the brand in India. Priced at ₹1.74 lakh (ex-showroom), it is powered by a 155cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine producing 18.4 PS and 14.2 Nm, paired with a six-speed gearbox. Over the years, the R15 has built a loyal following and is often seen as a first serious sportbike for many riders. Yamaha currently averages monthly sales of around 8,000 to 10,000 units with the R15, making it one of the company’s highest-selling models.
Above it sits the Yamaha R3, priced at ₹3.39 lakh (ex-showroom). The R3 uses a 321cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine delivering 42 PS and 29.5 Nm, also mated to a six-speed transmission. While more powerful and refined, its pricing places it in a different bracket altogether.
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Yamaha R2 to compete with the KTM RC200
When introduced, the YZF-R2 is expected to compete directly with motorcycles such as the KTM RC 200, which currently retails at ₹2.14 lakh (ex-showroom). From a portfolio perspective, the R2 could initially coexist with the R15, offering buyers more choice. Over the longer term, Yamaha may also evaluate it as a potential successor, depending on market response.
For now, Yamaha has made no official announcement beyond the trademark filing, and further clarity is expected only once testing or product disclosures begin.
