2020 Yamaha R3 | 1 Month Review 

"A motorcycle is far more than how fast it can accelerate." This is a transcendent truth in riding. Unfortunately a lot of people who start with too much bike too soon are either scared off bikes or killed outright before they reach this level of enlightenment.

"lets get down to a normal speed so we don't get pulled over" continues to drive 95mph

I love your overall message about the R3. I purchased a 2020 R3 last week for commuting and everyday riding and I absolutely love it for all the reasons you expressed in your video. I am coming off a Ducati 848, have owned a R6 and have ridden many liter bikes. This R3 never fails to put a smile on my face even after 18 years of riding. For the money and insurance being a fraction of the cost of lager bikes, I don't think there is a better all around bike out there.

For anyone that are still hesitant about getting an R3…. JUST GO FOR IT! I really love this bike! It’s super lightweight, agile. It takes the curve like a charm. And it’s really cheap in insurance.. I use it to go to work and school regularly. I’m looking into using it for tracks. Completely in love with it. This bike will make you a BETTER rider. It’s also a really forgiving bike for beginner. Don’t listen to other people.. The R3 is just an amazing bike!

there's two ways to go. Once you get tired of the speed you can either 1. buy a bigger stronger bike 1000cc+ to scare yourself again until you die 2. come to terms that that wares off and the fun is being on two wheels instead of four not just the speed. Then you go back to like a 300cc-450cc because of money savings

I've been riding sportsbikes for more than 20 years, and I've just bought my second R3 as my daily commuter. It's a wonderfully capable machine.

I got a 2017 R3 with just over 1000 miles on it as my first motorcycle. I am close to 30 years old, and under 150lbs. The R3 has been an absolutely fantastic intro to riding. It being light weight as inspired confidence every time I ride. I've put around 600 miles on it so far this season. I took my MSF course a few weeks ago. My insurance is under $35 a month, and my payment is extremely low. I keep looking at bikes in the 650 class to upgrade to. Then, I ride my bike again and realize I don't need anything more. Being a lighter guy, the bike feels plenty fast. Even my father who rides a Harley with over 100 ft-lbs of torque was surprised at the power delivery. Long story short, for the money the R3 is a great tool to learn, and enjoy.

I am a old rider who cut my teeth on a 73 Rd 350. One of the reasons the R3 beats other small displacement bikes is this awesome pedigree. Started at 16 and now at 64 I am back to a r3. Full circle ,no complaints. Live free ride hard. Enjoy your life!

Thank you for this video... I got a deal on an R1 and as for my first bike it’s terrifying. I feel like an R6 would be nice but I’m honestly considering an R3. I do love that feel of 0-100 real quick but I’m a husband and father and I think there is more to riding then speed. So thank you for putting content like this out there. Have a great and God Bless

Proud r3 owner, i daily commute 80 kilometres / 50 miles a day no problem, (70% highway). I get about 28kpl / 66mpg, (I've gotten 199kph / 124mph) I've had no problems with the bike, best daily!!💙💙💙

My Daughter just bought the Yamaha R3 2024, Being a Dad, I have to research and see if she made the right choice, so far looks like she did, I bought her a Shoei Helmet, a jacket and gloves in hopes of keeping her protected. Her bike arrives 6/11/24

Just bought a 2020 R3 and it’s my first bike, and I don’t regret it one bit

For me, it's true! Riding a slow bike fast is much more fun. Swinging my leg over back to my old 150cc bike and getting the most out of it, kept me smiling the whole way through twisty roads... even if I was the last guy to arrive.

Just bought a 2019 R3 ABS in white and I love it! I’m a new rider and I’ve learned so much just by the 180 miles I’ve put on it so far.

you sir have a real talent of expressing your opinions clearly. As someone who’s been considering the R3 and the CBR600rr, I am now leaning closer to the R3. The price is unbeatable and it just seems like a well made machine. Thank you.

I bought the 2015 r3 after watching your review back then. This is an awesome bike. I miss it. I ride an fz8 now and I miss my r3. Nothing like beating on the 300 all the time and the comfort, handling and speed are great. I've been riding for over 25 years and have had 8 motorcycles. Consider this bike. So much fun.

I have 0 experience riding, just booked my MTC literally today and plan on buying the 2020 r3 this December when I’ve saved up. Ive been so excited to start riding but have also wondered if I’m going to love the r3 in the long run bc my eyes were locked on an r6 for the speed, but after watching and listening from your experience you’ve really put the thought in my head that I could be fine with what I need instead of want. Family and girlfriend always are reluctant when I bring up my motorcycle interest so I’m grateful to hear that an r3 can be safe and just as enjoyable to veterans like you. Subbed, thanks man.

Chase, thank you for this video. Like you said in the ending, I was that guy (also had a lot of people in my corner with the typical "get a 600 or higher"). So I had a 15 ninja 1000 abs. Yes it was awesome at first and super exhilarating. But after 6 months I had that exact feeling you described. I kept it for another year and a half but then was lucky enough to sell it and get most of my money back because it was straight up too much bike for me. The R3 caught my eye because cheap and definitely capable. Your video hit every point that I was doubting about the R3. I am definitely going to purchase one soon because I honestly don't need to go over 100 anymore. Plus it's lighter so double win. Everyone can have their R6 and liter bikes, meanwhile I'll be riding with more of a smile on my face and not a "oh shit this is so much power" look. Seriously thank you again man 🙏

WARNING, LONG COMMENT (LOL). Awesome review man.... Nailed it!! I was late getting on two wheels, about 36, and had a GS500F for my first bike, graduated to a V Strom 650. Had a few years without a bike and got back in about 2 years ago with my son, enter the 2015 R3, a beauty blue and silver model with the blue cast wheels. Added some colour mods, tail tidy, led turn signals and wow, a a, Ong little bike. Ever since I was a teenager I always dreamed about a 600 or litre sport bike. Then, last year, when I turned 50, I spotted an immaculate 2009 GSXR 1000 with only 950 km's on it for am awesome price. I fell in love and my teenage urges came ruching back. I looked at selling the R3 to upgrade but the GSXR sold before I could act. Little did I know that my awesome wife bought the GSXR for my 50th birthday 😳. Love, love, love the GSXR (and my wife of course, lol) but to get to the point...... Sorry for the long intro, I really miss the R3 and hits to the point you made exactly. You crave that super bike experience but the experience on a bike like the R3 is just as rewarding if not, dare I even say it, a little more 🤔. I have never been a speed demon, likely because of my late entry into the sport of motorcycle riding but I am literally using about 25% of the GSXR's potential which is a shame but I also have the dilemma of selling my prized 50th birthday gift from my wife. I loved the R3 and even better if was bought and paid for. Now I have a payment which I am constantly thinking about. The only thing I think you missed in your review, unless I missed it, was the difference of the R3 over most of the other “beginnerc bike offerings in the design of the engine which makes the engine perform so well, the same design as the R6, cross plane firing I believe is the correct term. Anyway, apologies for the really long post but I was amazed at the result of your review with your experience as I have been following your channel for some time now. I think I may have to start hunting down the guy I sold the R3 to see if he will sell it back. Can't go wrong with owning two bikes😁. Would like to see you do a review of the MT03, I am thinking that would be a great bike as well. Cheers and thanks for your spot on review.

I'm buying this bike as my first bike. Thanks for your honest review 🤟🤟🤟

Only 300 miles in a month riding? Bro I just bought mine a week ago and already at 500 miles lmao .I love my r3

I’ve got 2.5 years of riding under my belt and I’m very much considering the r3 just because it seems like an awesome bike and cheaper insurance.

Damn, I've wanted to get a bike for so long and been stuck on the R3 as a starter, and it keeps getting better and better each year! One day hopefully haha.Thank you for reviewing these every year man!

I've never owned my own motorcycle before and I'm in the process of my research before getting my first bike and you have helped a lot with this video.

I can definitely attest to what Chase said at the end. I've owned an R3, CBR600, and an FZ-09. In that order over the course of 2.5 years. I felt worn out when I stopped riding 3 years ago and I like to believe it was because of all the weight, heat, and urge to drive fast while on the bigger bikes. I upgraded to the CBR600 only after 8 months on the R3 and definitely went through that phase of speeding. It was fun and all but as thrilling as it was, you begin to get used to it so much so that you just wanted to go faster to feel the thrill again and it's just too much risk and effort really especially on public roads. I'm at the point now where I'm ready to ride again and another R3 or maybe the Ninja 400 seems perfect! Looking back, I had a lot more fun especially exploring and just jumping on for an evening ride on the smaller bike so I know going back is where I'm at right now!

Chase mt-03 review when u get a chance I’d love to see the comparison between r3 and the mt-03 and now would be the perfect time.

I watched you many years ago, i've been through a lot myself in life since then. Now coming back to your video as i'm considering a bike again, and although i've missed your video by video journey, wow have you matured my dude! I'm genuinely happy for you chase!

Just picked up my 2022 R3 today!! It’s my first bike I just rode for a couple hours. I am in love and completely satisfied. Thank you chase helping me make my decision! I’m from the Atlanta area as well hope we cross paths one day!

I've been following you for a few months Since I decided it to buy a motorcycle Thank you very much for ur reviews about this motorcycle Once again Muchas gracias. !!

Having ridden both the 2015 model (owned for 3.5 years) and the 2020 model (rental bike a couple of days) I absolutely loved every mile of the +17,000 miles that I put on my bike. I used it for commuting, cruising, and spirited riding in multitudes of conditions (minus snow/sleet/severe storms). Honestly, for what I needed the bike to do, it was perfect. There were only a handful of times that I wanted more power from the bike but those thoughts disappeared as soon as I flicked the bike over for the next curvy corner. Terribly sad to have sold it but my situation deemed it necessary. I'm really tempted to get another one, but at the moment, I want to branch out and try as many bikes as I can. Next stop, Kawasaki.

Taking my MSF course in 2 weeks then picking up an R3. I can not wait to get this bike. I have always loved it and am so excited to start riding.

Last summer I got to go to a Yamaha demo event near me and got to ride the mt-10, tracer 900, and r3. The r3 was the most fun by far, and up until then was the slowest bike I'd ever been on outside of MSF courses. I loved how well it handled, the comfort, fit and finish, everything about the bike was great. Riding it was super confidence inspiring and fun, and if I ever move to a place with more garage space I'd scoop up an r3 in a heartbeat.

Great video Chase. These videos may be the best sales-pitch I've seen on the R3. You hit all the points (minus the track day which is no big deal). Also appreciate the psychological aspect of the riding experience vs adrenaline-rush and speed. Kudos

I love that “don’t need” is never “shouldn’t have” because you don’t “need” 200hp and a quickshifter but by god is it glorious.

As someone who loved the R3 the first time I sat on it, this video is satisfying to watch.

I have a 2017 r3. I love it. So much so that as opposed to buying a bigger bike I’m focused on upgrading the r3 itself to be the best it can be. I can honestly see it being my forever bike.

Just bought a slightly used 2019 R3! Getting it delivered after I get my license in a month! :D

Just bought my brand new 0 miles 2021 R3 matte black!! First bike ever I love it so much!! Need to get my MSF done so I can ride it on the street “legally”😊

Love that closing statement. First bike was a Ninja 250 in 2014, “upgraded” to a GSXR600 within 4 months. Sold the GSXR in 2015 and picked up a ‘99 Sportster that fall. Been out of riding for over 4 years now and looking to get back into it on an R3/MT03/Ninja 400/etc. These bikes do EVERYTHING that a rider wants and needs besides go FAST, which can get you killed, paralyzed, or decapitated. Riding is risky enough, why take the chance and fly down an interstate? Can’t wait to get back on one of these little bikes and really master it this time around

I bought a 2019 R3 and still have it. It's the perfect bike! I have got it up to 110 mph.

And how dare you release a new vid filmed in 2019 🤣

Really great post chase. Ive been riding for 6 seasons. I started with a ninja 300 for the first 2 seasons and it was a fantastic decision. I upgraded to a GSXR-750. I ride the street as well as multiple track days per year. I'm currently looking at getting out of the sport bike scene and going into a naked bike. I've been looking at the street triple RS and a BMW S1000R. To be honest I don't need more power, the 750 is a complete animal and I mostly ride around in 2-3 gear (even at highway speeds). I would actually consider getting this 2019 R3 for my main bike. Something that is comfortable and can handle everything. Money is not an issue and I can buy what I want, but in the end like your saying is that power or performance really necessary? Well no. Barely anyone on the street will even come close to using a fraction of the performance of the bikes they ride. Riding a less powerful bike like this out of the box will teach you way more than a bigger bike ever will. Not to mention cost half the price all around and keep you from getting tickets (hopefully lol). Just my two cents! Safe riding everyone.!

you're probably the motorvloger with the best audio

Well put. For most people, owning a bike is a means to brag about its specs as though they conquered it by riding it down the street. Aside from the great ergos, the thing I like best about this thing is it looks great. That is rarely the case anymore in the world of black on black, jagged, transformer race reps.

I want one of these sooo bad thank you for uploading this I’m gonna save up and buy one this summer

I love that you mentioned the blinker!! I actually had that incident happen where i didnt know my blinker was on and someone thought i was turning so he pulled right in front if me and splat..... haha i hope they listen to you

I bought a 2020 R3 as a beginner rider knowing I didn't crave the feeling of going crazy fast or wanting to race a 600 or a 1000. I wanted a motorcycle that I could control and not be controlled by it and in my opinion, has such a good 'crotch rocket' type feel to it. I love it! Great review by the way.

About to buy this bike tomorrow! First sport bike and I can't freaking wait. Thanks for the great reviews and input. Made me feel better about my soon purchase!

Some facts who might be looking to buy R3 Vs its competition Ninja 400 (I own both) : 1. Ninja 400 has a wider rear tire (150mm) Vs R3 (140mm) for the same weight and cost. (N400 is more fun in the corners and twisties) 2. Ninja 400 has 78 more ccs, more horsepower and more torque (Yes, even new riders can tell the difference, there is a SIGNIFICANT difference in pulling power), although R3 has a more Revvy engine. 3. Ninja 400 Has a better fuel economy than the R3 (around 6-7% better) (R3 has 48mpg and N400 : 52mpg. I calculated this after 100 fill ups each) Fuelly shows approx the same results. 4. Yamaha R3's gearbox is better than the Ninja 400s (N400 gearbox had clutch slipping, false gear issues until 3000 miles but corrected itself later. It still has problems getting into neutral sometimes at red lights) 5. The brakes on the R3 are VERY BAD even with the abs. Better brakes on the N400 inspire confidence to push the bike even more. 6. OEM stock tires on the N400 are wayy better than the R3's AND wider. 5. Ninja 400 is around 10% more comfortable (height 5'11", weight around 190lbs, Yammie Noob said the same thing in his video, he is approx the same height and weight as me), the seat is better and gets more comfortable as you ride it more. 6. R3's agility is good but after riding the N400 it felt sluggish. 7. R3 has the better looks, people(only old dudes) will come and ask if thats the new R6 or R1 (only if its the 2019 model). It is a thief magnet too, make sure you add theft in insurance (same for N400 if you buy the Green KRT edition). 8. R3 has poor quality paint, Factory cover smudged the paint on the R3's fairing which isn't covered under warranty(MT-07, XSR700 has swing arm rust issues as well). 9. Your right foot hits Ninja 400's stock exhaust heat shield while riding, although it never burnt me. it gets ennoying in traffic. 10. Mirrors are shit on both bikes. You gotta buy after market for decent mirrors 11. Clutch on the Ninja 400 is really light and doesn't give any feedback or bite point feel (can be fixed easily for cheap though) 12. The Dash on the Ninja 400 has analog tachometer and r3 has digital. 13. You can reach the battery under N400's seat VERY easily as compared to R3. 14. Easier to wheelie the Ninja 400. 15. Build quality is the same on both although the N400 has more tactile feel to the directional indicators. TL:DR Buy the Ninja 400. it is hands down the better bike of the two (better brakes, better quality OEM tires, more horsepower, more torque, wider rear tire, better fuel economy, more comfortable, better agility and nimbleness, better paint quality). However, if you don't believe me Test ride both, go sit on both bikes but most importantly READ BOTH R3 FORUMS and N400 FORUMS search for the issues the owners of both bikes have had. Do this before buying so you can be better prepared and not have buyer's remorse. Good Luck!

I'm sure the same argument could be made for this bike, that is made for the MX-5/S2000. Its more fun to drive a slow car fast, than a fast car slow. Or in this case, a Slow bike fast.

I get 56 MPG doing canyon runs on a 2019; I'd get more than that otherwise. Yes, I agree with you Chase, been riding 20+ years and it's truly an ASTONISHING value.

Thank you for this video I just got this one 2021 :) I’m a newer rider. Grew up riding but never owned my own. Thanks

i ride a 300 xmax. the best choice for me... love it! it's a sporty donkey.

I had my Ninja 300 for 3 years until it was stolen. Fun little bike, but I was getting bored with the power and was much happier on an FZ-07

I got my 2021 r3, i think it’s the best beginner bike. Guys don’t worry have the lower cc, it’s not a small bike as it’s seems in videos. This bike is so forgiving and easy to get out of mistakes. Comparing to r7 I will say it looks same, the r7 is just slightly longer but you won’t be able to tell the different without having side by side.

I have a 600RR and am legitimately considering selling it for an R3. I'm in my mid 30's and this seems like the best "sportbike" for an old man like me that wants to be safe while still having some sporty fun.

I would really like to ride the ZX25R!!!

I started on a 300 a couple of years ago (I was afraid to put my dumb ass in control of a more powerful bike), more specifically a BMW G310R. Can you do everything on a 300? Yes and no. I got tired pretty quickly of having to ride flat out and switch gears all the time in the big city to make it go quickly and got tired of feeling like I'm riding a moped on the highway. In Bulgaria, speed limit is 140km/h on the highway so many people consider 150-160ish normal. And 167 was the absolute top speed you can achieve on that before the rev limiter kicks in. So, on the highway, I was always pushing the bike to its limit and had no reserve to power out of a situation or anything. Long straights on the way to nice twisties were pretty boring as well. That might have a lot to do with my thorough history of driving fast cars (and race cars occasionally), drifting, street racing, trackdays etc. before I got into bikes. So I decided to upgrade to something else. After a bit of research I decided I do not need a liter bike, but something more like a Street Triple or a MT-07 or an 09 at most. But the local Yamaha dealership that was right next door to my office accidentally (or not!?) tricked me into liter bikes the day I walked in and asked for a test ride, by telling me "We don't have anything but the MT-10. If you want to try it anyway, you can have it for the day." And my thoughts of getting a sub-liter bike went away pretty quick. I had to have a devilish fast bike. I just had to. Plus, good 600cc bikes were too close to liter bikes in price and at that moment I could afford a 1000cc. So I ended up with a fully specced BMW S1000R with quickshifter, riding modes, forged wheels etc at a great price cause it had been sitting on the showroom floor for way too long. Now, do I need all that power? Other than to put occasional dicks on 4 wheels in their place - no. But I really love it. I also love the better brakes, suspension, build quality etc. (I do realize the R3 is better in most of these than the 310R). And the S1000R is so far the most flickable of all the liter bikes in this class I've tried. The bike is way better than I am, but I love it and respect what a powerful and precise tool it can be. Now that turned into a pretty long comment....time to wrap it up. 300cc is great and I could live with it and enjoy it, but I like to have more power available when I need it. When (and if) too much power stops exciting me, I'll probably end up with something in the middle - a 600-750.

I've taken the exact same path as you are talking about riding for 20+ years - I have returned down to small cc bikes and I ride a small KTM Duke 390 now. I have improved my riding so much more now since I got the 390. Completely agree.

Lovely video, like your cheerful attitude Am riding an MT25, a yamaha .... a nice bike too.

Should this be my first bike? I’m a complete beginner with no experience.

Absolutely correct. Great bike . I've had everything from 600s Upto1200s. 57 years old and my R3 is so much fun, lightweight and just a blast. 👍😀😀

I’ve spent 3 months on this motorcycle and I know I am still very new but I absolutely love riding this bike. My first 3 months of riding Before the R3 I rode a Iron 883 XL and compared to that (I know it’s two verrry different rides) it’s very approachable and a lot of fun to ride

HOW DO YOU NOT RECOGNIZE A CHALLENGER? I love the R3 btw, put 3k miles on it thus far

Looking at the MT 03 I just sat on one at dealer . Very comfortable seat and position. I like the slipper assist clutch on the Z 400 better but the seat and position I didn't like on the Z 400. MPG= sips gas? very informative

I have a 2021 Yamaha R3 ,they are amazing,I love it to👌 been riding for 3months ❤

I want to thank you for this video and how knowledgeable you are with your experience and sharing this with the community. I’m on the beginner road of getting a motorcycle, I’ve decided this will be my first bike, I’m saving right now and should hopefully have my license and will be purchasing a 2020 R3 by hopefully beginning to mid June. (I’m sure that will come with some hate getting brand new for a first bike, but I’m OCD about my cars and I want something new as I am very meticulous about maintenance of my vehicles, however, I am open minded to other opinions of experienced riders) Thank you for sharing this video once again, it has helped me a lot and given me some ease of mind and confidence in my decision of this being my beginner bike. and I hope anyone else who reads this has some good advice for a “soon to be” new rider. Take care all!

the acceleration on a 600cc is asinine...nobody needs it but its fun :)

Do the z400 next

Been driving offroad bikes since I was 7 years old I am 24 now, bought a R3 2018 as my first road bike and I am not disappointed at all.... Love this small bike.......

Very wise words, not applying just to the R3, but good small capacity bikes. And 4 years after this vid was released, the offer is much more varied: R3 still, Ninja 500, CBR500R, SR450, RS457, you could almost include the ZX4 even if more powerful. I'm with you here, and many commenters, I've had big fast bikes before (not especially to do warp speeds but because that's also where the safety tech was) and am coming round to these small capacity rides because these engines can be exploited in full, and almost all the time, which of course is nigh on impossible on liter bikes unless on a track. I wouldn't be surprised if they became a lot more popular in the next few years, if only for the price/insurance/consumption advantages. Their engines (feel, sound etc) are also getting fairly 'noble' now, the tech is following suit. Less and less reasons not to get into them. Having said that, would I have one as an only bike? Probably not, mostly because I tour. But as a 2-bike or even better, 3-bike garage, a 500cc (or 300 as is the case here) is a no-brainer.

Think this might just be my first bike :) It was always gonna be between the R3 or the Ninja.

as a cbr300r owner, this class of bikes are absolutely perfect. enough power to get out of the way, lightweight enough to maneuver driveways, and city streets while also being capable of knee dragging turns. I've always said "it's more fun to drive s slow car(or bike) fast, than to drive a fast car(bike) slow."

2015 R3 owner and even through the factory recalls I love it. Yamaha takes care of their customers going above and beyond. I have owned a couple larger bikes R6 and R1 this is the most fun ever.

I'm a year round 2016 r3 rider and the service advisor at D2 Powersports in upstate South Carolina. I couldn't agree more with the points that you've made about the R3. My odo recently hit 20k, which is evidence that me and this bike have been through some stuff. All these miles later and I still love this bike. If I could I would throw some nobbies on her and go R3 dual sport in a second. (You listening Yamaha? Let's lighten this motor's lbs and get a dual r3! ). The default assumption that I'm not a seasoned rider when I say R3 is truly the only annoyance I have to report. But people don't view from the perspective I have, as well as yourself. Thank you for this review and the points that you focused on. You couldn't have hit the nail on the head any better.

Thank you for this video. While I'm considering the R3 and MT-03, your report is pushing me closer to the prior.

Love your words about needing a faster motorcycle or not, I feel what you are saying and I agree with you. You have a new subscriber now.

As a r3 owner of 2 years, you are absolutely spot on about this bike. The turn signals suck ass, so much so that I thought it was broken. Nope, they're just like that. Besides that, I absolutely love it. It is a great commuter bike, and when you want that fast boi experience, you can be "fast" and go through all the gears and not be at warp speed. Really fun bike, very agile, very fun around the city. The only other downside is if you're tall like me, that sitting position can cramp up your legs after a really long ride. Could you tour on this? Yes. Would you want to? Probably not.

Just got my unrestricted license in Europe and still looking at the R3. I really feel it is worth it starting on a smaller displacement bike to really start learning to ride. I have never felt really comfortable during my driving lessons on a 650ish bike and I think a 300cc / 400cc bike is a great starting point to get more comfortable cornering, shifting, braking and just overall becoming a better rider. Had a couple of people making slight jokes about starting on a 300, but I can't wait till I'm at the point where I can pass them on my smaller bike through pure skill :) Great review! I'm gonna go watch the Ninja 400 one next!

I am turning 17 this year and wanted to get in to motorcycles and I’ve been looking to see what motorcycles would be good for my first one so this video was really helpful.

I almost got an R3 as my first bike. Not so much because new rider, but money. I ended up on an older ninja 500r. Through my years of riding, I've gotten the chance to ride various types of bikes. from Groms all the way up to literbikes for extended amounts of time. I ended up settling with a CBR500 & 650. I don't look down on 300s. as a matter of fact, I always get excited when i see a small displacement bike. it's like what I saw with cars. Everyone can talk about the high powered hypercars, the flagship sports car of whomever, But I found the passion was with the smaller cars. Yes, Vette owners are passionate, but I rarely see one that comes close to that of a Miata or even a Civic owner. I found the same thing in Bikes. People who own the smaller bikes, even seasoned riders love the ever-living shit out of them.

I'm 50 years old, no desire to go over 100 any longer. Had my 2019 R3 for 18 months now. It's my sole transportation (unless it's under 35 degrees then is catch a lift or uber). Outside of the initial $5000 for the bike (which BTW is 1/2 or less of what you would pay for an R6 or any other 1/2 liter bike), So far I've paid a total of $200 in insurance, $300 in gas, $500 in maintenance and $400 to replace tires...just clicked over the 10,000 mile mark...I can think of a more economical and fun way to go. Great review, especially the parts about how nimble and quick and FUN this bike can be.

i know someone who bought a R3 and rode it for 4 months, then upgraded to a 600. i still carry way more speed than him in corners, passing him repeatedly. when we pull over after our ride i always tell him "shoulda kept the R3 longer." 😁

I just sold my 2011 yamaha r6 two weeks ago, very sad day In my life. With that being said...after watching your videos on this model, all the questions I had have been laid to rest..I'll be buying this bike hopefully next week or this week. Thanks chase

I LOVE MY R3 ! Its my first motorcylce ever, and i cant stop driving it. It looks amazing and drives awesome 😁

The best reviews on RU-vid by far..😎

Loving the amount of videos so far Chase!! Great quality and definitely positive vibes!!!

Hey Mate, Thanks for the video, its amazing. You almost clear all my doubts about this bike. I was really looking toward buying some 600cc bikes but as being a beginner and after watching this video, I am gonna go for R3

Unfortunately there are a lot of "I have more CCs than you" sport bike riders out there. If one bike is all you're into or all you can afford, then I guess by all means get your over compensating Busa or litre bike. However for real enthusiasts who own more than a few bikes, this one definitely has a spot in the rotation. It's a fun little bike to throw around in twisties, and also get killer MPGs and a decent riding position for a nice little commuter bike. Definitely not just a beginner bike. I've been riding 20+ years with plenty of track days under my belt. A giant engine and straight line speed do nothing for me. It's all about the turns with a sport bike. My first bike was an 05 R6 and I used to burn liter bikes in the mountains all the time. 🤷🏻‍♂️

Great video! I sold a Honda CBR650F a couple years ago thinking I didn’t feel like riding anymore, but now I’m getting the itch again. I’d truly like a Gold Wing DCT, but I don’t have that kind of money to spend. The R3 has really caught my eye more than a comparable Honda, and I’m thinking of picking one up just to get back on two wheels for cheap while still having a beautiful bike to ride. Just as you said in the video, I had a more powerful bike, but I didn’t need all that power for the way I ride. This video has answered several questions for me. Thanks!!

Love your review, I have a 2018 R3 with the cool neon yellow color scheme that I purchased a few months ago and only have 70 miles so far since it’s cold here in New Jersey...can’t wait to get out there and enjoy it like you do! Thanks for conveying the message about having fun is more than riding fast in a straight line!

I love my R3 ! It’s amazing for everything! I want a R1 soon ! But even that I will keep the R3 Definitely I recommend this Bike.

The ninja 400 has similar mirrors. I don't understand why everyone is complaining about them. Sure they are "far" away but you see enough, no arms or anything in the way and you don't adjust them every day (usually not at all if you done it once properly). You can see behind you without turning your head not even a tiny little bit. On some naked bikes you feel like doing a shoulder check just to look in your mirrors...... I like them!

Based on "there really are no bad bikes today". It comes down to get what you want. I have been looking at the R3, RC390 and Ninja 400 as a second street/track bike instead of buying an older 600/1000 SS. I could go out and get a Tuono/RSV4, MT10, R1, 1000RR. but the only thing they offer (besides the insane exhaust sound of the V4 and crossplane I4) is faster acceleration. Note: I am past the 'real quick' phase, and self preservation has started to kick into high gear the last few years. I have had a quick car and it just gets to "why" when you can easily hit triple digit speeds before you realize it.

12 years on a Triumph Sprint RS (not well known) with an 955 triple, 120 HP, 85 ft-lb torque, 0-60 3.5 seconds, top speed 150 mph. I didn't wish to quit riding, so I bought and fitted out an R3 (seat is important if you ride long trips). Akrapovic makes the best slip on (mine is the longer one). I really don't miss horsing around the big Triumph or the low clip on (even with a riser). The Saddlemen seat is the best seat I've ever own. It's got sport bags, tail bag, and tank bag, so trips are us. I don't miss the Triumph.

Dang bro. You were literally right outside my place. Gonna have to look out for you next time. You'll see me on a white 2019 R3. I love that thing. Everything you've said about it is spot on. Also can confirm triple digits no problem.

Really as long as you could enjoy the ride doesn't matter how many cc's the bike has as long as you're feeling comfortable and having fun and safe That's all that matters.

As an Englishman, that comment about old lady's sipping tea, gave me a good laugh lol. Nice review

Alright that’s it I’ll get the r3 as my first bike sometime in the future!😄

Got the same bike. It’s crazy. Ride safe bros