Yamaha’s R2M brings a 204cc engine, lightweight chassis and extensive electronics together in a compact sportsbike package, with its strongest character emerging when the motorcycle is pushed through corners. The flagship version of the R2 range was tested on a racetrack, where its balance between performance, agility and everyday usability became clear.
The R2M uses a 204cc liquid-cooled, four-valve single-cylinder engine producing 26.5bhp at 10,000rpm and 19.1Nm of torque at 8,000rpm. It weighs 150kg and gets a six-speed gearbox, ride-by-wire and an up-and-down quickshifter. Compared with the R15, the R2 has a larger engine and more initial torque, reducing the need for frequent clutch work while delivering stronger performance as the revs rise.
The motorcycle uses a steel-tube diamond frame, a 37mm USD front fork and a linked Monocross rear suspension, along with an aluminium die-cast swingarm. Its 810mm seat height and 1,340mm wheelbase contribute to a compact feel, while the 12-litre fuel tank and 170mm ground clearance add everyday practicality. The R2M also gets a TFT instrument cluster, Y-Connect connectivity and three riding modes.
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On track, the R2M’s biggest strength is its light and responsive handling. Quick direction changes require little effort, allowing the rider to focus on braking points, cornering lines and maintaining momentum. The 150kg kerb weight also makes the bike easier to manage under braking and through technical sections. However, the 37mm front fork can feel slightly bumpy during aggressive circuit riding, with harder braking and corner entry revealing a need for additional support.
The braking hardware includes a 282mm front disc, 220mm rear disc and dual-channel ABS, with 100/80-17 front and 140/70R17 rear tyres. While the brakes are adequate for normal road riding, the ABS can intervene aggressively during very hard track braking, making it more difficult to shed speed precisely before corner entry. The up-and-down quickshifter otherwise works smoothly, although the test motorcycle repeatedly became stuck when shifting from fifth to sixth, an issue that requires further testing to determine whether it was specific to that motorcycle.
The R2M is not designed as a dedicated track machine, and its track performance highlights both its strengths and limitations. Its engine provides a clear step up in torque over the R15, while the lightweight chassis makes cornering accessible and engaging. The front suspension and ABS calibration leave room for improvement during aggressive circuit riding, but their road-oriented characteristics can make sense for everyday use. Overall, Yamaha has created a sportsbike that focuses less on overwhelming outright performance and more on making speed and cornering easier to enjoy.
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