New Yamaha YZF-R3, a debut in the CIV to remember

New Yamaha YZF-R3 – Presented just a year ago at Eicma, the new Yamaha YZF-R3 represents the natural transition for younger riders who, once they have demonstrated their worth on the track with the eighth of a litre, want to continue to mature gradually, before face the challenges riding the 600cc and 1000cc.

Over the past weekend the new Yamaha YZF-R3 – 321cc, 42hp for 169kg in running order, made its debut in the last seasonal race of the CIV Sport Production, Italian Speed ​​Championship, driven by the Spaniard Pedro Javier Castano Illan, already a protagonist with two victories in Franciacorta in the 125 R2014 Cup, and in a practically Stock version. The new Japanese super sports car crossed the finish line in second place, just 4 thousandths behind the first place. In the classic Blue Race color, the Japanese 300cc appeared on the Tuscan track with original fork and engine and standard rims. The only but necessary racing setups were the half handlebars, the fiberglass fairings, the raised footrests, the racing air filter, the complete exhaust, the additional module, the monoshock absorber and the racing tyres.

Pedro Javier Castano Illan already managed to find an excellent feeling with the vehicle in free practice, setting the best lap with a time of 2'11"890 and obtaining seventh place in the official qualifying sessions, also due to the incessant rain which forced drivers to use rain tyres. Starting from the third row, the Spaniard immediately moved into the top positions and started a last-gasp duel with the two leading Kawasakis. The technical characteristics of the R3, although in a configuration very close to the series, and the driving of Pedro Javier Castano Illan have allowed the signature of the fastest lap with a time of 2'12”256. The finish was thrilling, with the Iwata 300cc alongside one of the two Kawasakis until the finish line and only beaten at the photo finish.

In a month at Eicma, all the details of the new challenge in collaboration between Yamaha Motor Europe NV and AG Motorsport Italia will be revealed which will have a formula very similar to the R125 Cup, including both the technical material and registration for the CIV itself in the participation kit.