Japanese two-wheeler maker, Yamaha has trademarked a new name Yamaha R2 in several international markets including Australia, New Zealand, Europe and Philippines. It is expected that Yamaha R2 could be used for a new 200cc motorcycle, which will join the brand’s existing R series.
The Yamaha R Series include R15, R3, R6, R7 and the R1. It is expected that the new Yamah R2 will sit between the R15 and R3, and is most likely to feature a new 200cc single-cylinder engine. Not just YZF-R2, Yamaha has also trademarked the Yamaha FZF-R9. The R9 will be positioned below the litre-class R1.
Yamaha does not have a 200cc engine, which is compliant with the stringent Euro 5 or BS6 emission norms. The company will have to design and develop an all-new engine to power the entry-level 200cc sports bike. It is expected that Yamaha could use the R3’s 321cc parallel twin engine block to produce the new engine. Adding to it, the bigger capacity version of the existing 155cc single-cylinder engine could also power the R2. ‘
It is yet to be confirmed whether Yamaha will introduce a new 200cc motorcycle using the YZF-R2 nameplate. Yamaha could have safeguard the name for the future use as well. To be slotted above Yamaha R15 V3, the new R2 could be positioned against the likes of the KTM RC200 and the Bajaj Pulsar RS200.
Yamaha has also started working on the next-gen R15 V4, which has already been spotted testing in India as well as in Indonesia. The new model is expected to be introduced in the end of 2021 or early next year. The motorcycle will come with design changes, which will be inspired by the new Yamaha R7. It is likely to retain the existing 155cc, liquid-cooled SOHC motor that produces 18.6PS of power at 10,000rpm and 14.1Nm of torque at 8,500rpm. It is paired to a 6-speed gearbox with slip and assist function.
