Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as Yamaha) will be making its domestic debut of the new YZF-R3 and Tracer 9GT, which were just announced in the fall of 2024, at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 (January 10-12, 2025, Makuhari Messe)! The YZF-R3 has a more masculine look, while the Tracer 9GT also adopts new headlights and other features, and both have a revamped style. It has also been revealed that the domestic versions of both models are likely to be released around spring to summer 2025. In addition, a mysterious adventure model of the MT-03 was also on display!
The new YZF-R3 is likely to be launched in Japan in the spring of 2025 along with the YZF-R25
The new YZF-R3 and Tracer 9GT models exhibited this time are both European-spec models that are reference exhibits, but it is likely that the domestic models will be equipped with roughly the same features.
First up is the 2025 model of the super sports YZF-R3. The new model, which has undergone its first model change in five years since 2019, has no major changes to the basic specifications, such as the 321cc inline twin-cylinder engine, but is mainly characterized by a renewed design.
The new YZF-R3 was unveiled for the first time in Japan.
First of all, the face design is designed to be in tandem with the 890cc, 3-cylinder supersport YZF-9, which was announced at the same time in Europe. It features the latest face design in the YZF-R series.
YZF-R9 [YAMAHA] The YZF-R9 (known as the R9 in Europe) was announced in Europe and the US. It is fitted with an 890cc water-cooled 3-cylinder CP3 engine inherited from the MT-09, which produces 119 PS, housed in a special frame.
More specifically, the headlight has been changed from the previous LED twin-eye type. A projector type has been placed inside the central M-shaped duct, and four LED position lights are provided on the left and right sides of the front cowl.
It is also equipped with winglets derived from MotoGP machines. Combined with the newly designed seat cowl, it has improved aerodynamic characteristics. In addition, the position of the front turn signals has been significantly changed. These add to the sportier impression.
The front face of the new YZF-R3
Seat cowl of the new YZF-R3
By the way, at the venue, I was able to straddle the actual bike, and even though I am 164 cm tall, my heel was completely pressed up against the seat. The seat height of 780 mm is the same as the previous model, but the side cowl seems to have become slimmer, and I got the impression that my feet can reach the ground even more easily.
In addition, the new model will also be equipped with an assist and slipper clutch. This equipment has various effects, such as suppressing excessive engine braking when shifting down and increasing stability when decelerating, as well as making the clutch lever feel lighter. This is expected to make the YZF-R3's ride more comfortable and pleasant.
In addition, according to information obtained by the Webike Plus editorial department, the debut of the domestic model of the new YZF-R3 will be in the spring of 2025. Of course, it is highly likely that the 250cc version of its sister model, the YZF-R25, will also undergo similar specification changes and be released at the same time as the R3.
Rear view of the new YZF-R3
The motorcycle on display this time is equipped with genuine accessories such as a smoke screen (for reference), cowling protector, and fender eliminator kit.
Will the new Tracer 9GT with six headlights make its Japanese debut around summer 2025?
On the other hand, the large sports tourer Tracer 9GT is based on the same 890cc in-line 3-cylinder engine and aluminum frame as the street fighter "MT-09", and is a model that improves the riding performance and comfort as a touring bike with a large screen and upright riding position.
New Tracer 9GT
The basic specifications, such as the 890cc in-line 3-cylinder engine, will be the same as the conventional model.
The new 2025 model will feature a new "adaptive matrix LED headlight." The unique 6-eye LED headlight system is equipped with a function that automatically adjusts the amount of light depending on the surrounding traffic conditions, weather, and other factors. It prevents the headlights from dazzling oncoming vehicles. As with the conventional model, it also features cornering lights that trace the edge of the corner. The combination of these features ensures a high level of safety.
Adopts unique six-eye type adaptive matrix LED headlights
Face design of the new Tracer 9GT
Although it was not exhibited this time, the lineup also includes the top-of-the-line model, the Tracer 9GT+. Its main feature is that it has advanced functions such as "ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control)," which automatically follows the vehicle ahead while maintaining an appropriate distance by installing millimeter-wave radar on the front and rear of the vehicle. The European 2025 model has undergone similar changes, so it is likely that the domestic Tracer 9GT+ will have the same face and other features.
2025 model Tracer 9GT+. The top-of-the-line Tracer 9GT+ is equipped with semi-active electronically controlled suspension, ACC, and Y-AMT. In Europe, 30-liter pannier cases are standard equipment. The body color is Icon Performance.
In addition, the electronically controlled clutch mechanism "Y-AMT" model, which was installed on the MT-09 and became a hot topic in Europe, has also been announced, so we can expect this specification to be introduced in Japan as well.
In addition, according to information caught by the Webike Plus editorial department, the Japanese debut of the new Tracer 9GT series will be around summer 2025. The price and other details are still unknown, but we are already excited about the arrival of the new model with improved performance as a touring motorcycle.
The new Tracer 9GT exhibited this time was equipped with genuine accessories such as the keyless top case and keyless back case, which were exhibited as reference items.
Parts that give the MT-03 a touring look are also available
Also on display at the venue was the street fighter "MT-03," which is equipped with the same 321cc in-line twin-cylinder engine as the YZF-R3, but its style has been completely changed. It now looks like an adventure model with improved on-road and off-road performance.
MT-03 Touring Style exhibited as a reference
This model was named "MT-03 Touring Style." It was actually a model equipped with various accessories made by Y's Gear, a company that handles Yamaha genuine accessories.
The seat backs and side bags improve luggage carrying capacity.
Of particular interest are the reference exhibits that are not yet on sale, such as the touring screen, knuckle guards, touring seat backs, and special decals.
The front face has also been transformed into something more adventure model-like.
The touring screen, knuckle guards, touring seat back, special decals, and other parts are not yet on sale, but are just sample exhibits.
In addition, the tires are off-road type with a block pattern, giving the bike an overall more outdoor feel.
Block pattern tires add a wild image
If these reference parts are officially released, it will be possible to change the MT-03 into an adventure form. This will be of great interest to riders who like customization and touring. We are also looking forward to seeing how this will develop in the future.
See YAMAHA YZF-R3 (R3) Moto Index Page
See YAMAHA YZF-R25 (R25) Moto Index Page
