Yamaha Motor India has confirmed that it is working on a new fully-faired sport motorcycle, the Yamaha R2, which is scheduled to launch in the Indian market in 2026. The upcoming R2 will sit above the popular R15 in Yamaha’s lineup and is expected to strengthen the brand’s presence in the entry-level performance motorcycle segment.
According to industry sources, the Yamaha R2 will be manufactured in India, with local production also supporting exports to other global markets.Yamaha going to lunch Two Scooters in 2026 are Yamaha EC-06 & Yamaha AEROX-E This move aligns with Yamaha’s long-term strategy of using India as a key manufacturing hub for small- and mid-capacity motorcycles.
Yamaha R2
Positioned Above the R15, Not a Replacement
Yamaha has made it clear that the R2 will not replace the existing R15. Instead, it will act as a step-up model for riders looking for more performance and road presence while still retaining everyday usability. The R15 will continue to be sold alongside the new R2, catering to different buyer profiles within the fully-faired sportbike category.
The R2 is expected to bridge the gap between the R15 and Yamaha’s larger-capacity global sport models, offering an accessible upgrade path for young enthusiasts and existing Yamaha owners.
Expected Engine and Performance
While Yamaha has not officially revealed technical specifications, the R2 is widely expected to be powered by a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine in the 200cc range. Output figures are likely to be noticeably higher than the R15’s 155cc unit, delivering improved acceleration and stronger mid-range performance.
The motorcycle is expected to feature a six-speed gearbox and modern electronics suited for both city riding and occasional highway use. Yamaha’s focus is likely to remain on balancing performance with refinement, rather than outright power figures.
Design and Styling Direction
Styling is expected to follow Yamaha’s global R-series design language, with sharp fairings, an aggressive front fascia, and a sporty riding posture. The R2 is likely to draw visual inspiration from larger Yamaha supersport models, helping it stand out in the competitive entry-level sportbike segment.
Features such as LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and premium fit and finish are expected, in line with Yamaha’s current design standards.
India Manufacturing and Market Strategy
Local manufacturing will allow Yamaha to price the R2 competitively while maintaining quality standards. Producing the motorcycle in India also opens the door for exports to emerging markets, making the R2 an important global product rather than an India-only model.
The move signals Yamaha’s renewed focus on strengthening its motorcycle portfolio in India, especially in segments where competition has intensified in recent years.
Segment and Expected Rivals
Once launched, the Yamaha R2 is expected to compete with motorcycles in the 200cc fully-faired segment, where buyers are increasingly looking for a mix of performance, design, and brand value. The R2’s positioning above the R15 suggests it will target riders who want a sportier alternative without moving into significantly higher price brackets.
Launch Timeline
The Yamaha R2 is currently planned for a 2026 launch, with the festive season seen as a likely window. Official specifications, pricing, and variant details are expected to be announced closer to the launch timeline.
With the R2, Yamaha aims to expand its R-series family in India and offer enthusiasts a new, more powerful option while retaining the brand’s reputation for reliability and everyday usability.
