2021 Yamaha MT-03

Although the Yamaha MT-03 existed as a single-cylinder model prior to 2016, it was nothing like the twin-cylinder version debuting that year. Utilizing the same engine and chassis as the new YZF-R3, the naked bike version offered the perfect entry-level attributes as its sportbike brother, but in an even more accessible package. The 2020 version was the first year for the MT-03 to be sold in North America, and it saw updates to the styling (with LED headlight with dual LED running lights similar to the MT-09 and MT-10) and suspension (inverted KYB fork replacing the conventional unit, and a seven-step preload adjustable rear shock, both with firmer settings).

There are no updates to the MT-03 for 2021. Available colorways are Storm Fluo and Matte Stealth Black.

The Yamaha MT-03′s main competitors are the BMW G 310 R, Honda CB300R, Kawasaki Z400, and KTM 390 Duke. Other possible supersport alternatives are the Honda CBR300R, Kawasaki Ninja 400, KTM RC 390, and Suzuki GSX250R.

Using the same 321cc parallel twin that powers the R3, the 2020 model MT-03 cranked out 37.1 hp at 10,590 rpm, with 20.2 pound-feet of torque at 9,010 rpm on the CW dyno. As the numbers show, the MT-03′s engine needs to be revved for best results. Thus, first and second gear are fairly short in order to get the rpm up, but it gets you “off the line quick enough to surprise more than a few red light jockeys,” CW’s Justin Dawes said in his First Ride Review. He added, “Third and fourth gear are where the MT finds its groove on the backroads. Off-corner grunt is smooth, predictable, but not prodigious.”

The overall suspension settings are softer than the R3 to fit the MT-03′s more urban intentions, and together with the decent Dunlop GPR-300 tires, “…kept the bike well grounded when topography presented with an undulating ripple, underground root, or gnarled asphalt” in the city, according to Serena Bleeker in her CW Second Ride Review. But those softer settings don’t compromise the MT-03′s performance in the twisty pavement sections, with Dawes stating in his review: “The small Yamaha tips into the corners quickly and easily without requiring much input from the rider. Midcorner corrections and bumps don’t upset the chassis.” Bleeker agreed, stating that the MT-03 “chassis’ solid communication throughout each turn and its planted connection to the asphalt—thanks to the firm suspension—help to make quick work of the winding stretches.”

The same single 298mm front disc and twin-piston Akebono front caliper from the R3 graces the MT-03′s front end, and provides a beginner-friendly initial bite with adequate power. ABS is standard on the MT-03, and intervention is transparent and seamless.

Yamaha claims 56 mpg from the 2021 Yamaha MT-03.

With a conventional tubular handlebar that positions the rider’s hands 1.5 inches higher and 0.75 inch further back than the R3′s clip-ons, the MT-03′s riding position is much more relaxed. Legroom might feel cramped to taller riders due to the footpeg position and flaring at the top edge of the fuel tank. Passenger accommodations are pretty spartan, with a tiny, thinly padded seat. CW-measured seat height is a low 31.1 inches, which lends itself to easy navigation in slow-speed scenarios for smaller or less experienced riders.

Just like the R3, the MT-03 is devoid of any electronic rider aids save for the ABS in order to keep costs down. The same triple LED headlight/dual running lamp setup as the larger MTs is used on the MT-03, and the LCD dash is identical to the R3′s unit.

The MT-03 has an excellent fit and finish, especially considering the superb value of its low MSRP.