Yamaha Motor India is reportedly preparing to expand its sportbike lineup in the Indian market with the upcoming Yamaha R2, which is expected to make its debut during the festive season of 2026. Positioned above the well-known Yamaha R15, the new R2 will be manufactured entirely in India.
Since its launch in 2008, the Yamaha R15 has played a crucial role in shaping Yamaha’s sporty brand image in India. With the R2, Yamaha aims to offer a natural step-up option for riders who want more performance without compromising everyday usability.
🔍 Yamaha R2: What We Know So Far
According to available information, the Yamaha R2 will:
- Be manufactured in India
- Be exported to global markets
- Be sold alongside the R15
- Not replace or discontinue the R15
- Offer noticeably better performance than the R15
Internally codenamed Project 070, the Yamaha R2 is expected to be powered by a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a displacement of around 200cc. This makes it an ideal upgrade for riders moving up from the R15 without stepping into the higher costs and intensity of 300–400cc motorcycles.
For reference, the current R15 produces 18.4 hp and 14.2 Nm of torque, while the R2 is expected to deliver a stronger output while still maintaining good fuel efficiency.
⚙️ Why Yamaha Is Going with a 200cc Engine
Instead of jumping directly to a 300cc platform, Yamaha appears to be taking a more practical approach. A 200cc engine allows the brand to retain:
- Better fuel efficiency
- Easier day-to-day rideability
- Lower ownership and maintenance costs
While hardcore enthusiasts may have hoped for a larger displacement, Yamaha’s strategy clearly targets a wider and more practical audience.
🇮🇳 Made in India, Designed in India
The Yamaha R2 is expected to be designed, developed, and manufactured in India, with production likely to take place at Yamaha’s Chennai facility. In addition to serving the Indian market, the R2 will also be exported to several international markets.
Despite online speculation, the R2 is unlikely to replace the R15. Models such as the R15, MT-15, and XSR155 continue to sell strongly, giving Yamaha little reason to phase them out.
🏁 Expected Rivals
Once launched, the Yamaha R2 will compete in the 200–210cc sportbike segment against:
- KTM RC 200 (₹2.16 lakh)
- Hero Karizma XMR 210 (₹1.84–1.86 lakh)
The R2 will also mark the debut of Yamaha’s new 200cc engine platform, which could later be used across multiple future models.
🔮 Yamaha NMax 155 & What’s Next
Alongside the R2, Yamaha is also reportedly considering the launch of the Yamaha NMax 155 in India. Positioned as a more practical alternative to the Aerox 155, the NMax could appeal to comfort-focused buyers.
Additionally, Yamaha is said to be working on:
- New 300–450cc motorcycles
- Possible cruiser and ADV models
- The Lander 250 dual-sport, showcased at Auto Expo 2025
These models, however, are expected to arrive at a later stage.
📅 Expected Launch Timeline
The Yamaha R2 is expected to be launched around the festive season of 2026, making it one of the most anticipated sportbike launches in India.
👉 Stay tuned to DaimaMotor.com for the latest updates on Yamaha R2 launch date, price, specifications, and rivals.