While Yamaha sells lower-displacement naked bikes in other parts of the world, the MT-03 is the smallest offering in Yamaha’s US-based streetbike lineup, making it the official entry into the company’s iconic MT lineup. Mind you, Master of Torque here hints more at the bike’s style than it does massive power curves, a race-tuned chassis, or an expansive electronics package. Consider the 03 a practical, new-rider-friendly entry into the world of motorcycling, with all the style of its bigger siblings.
That aggressive style comes courtesy of an sharp front headlight assembly, air scoops, and a sculpted tank that gives the bike its edgy look. An LED headlight and LED turn signals add to the modern appearance, while an LCD display offers pertinent information at a quick glance. Competitive bikes from Kawasaki, KTM, and CFMoto offer a touch more newness with their TFT displays, but Yamaha’s stylistic approach isn’t worlds away, and the MT still does a great job of standing out with its sharp lines.
The aforementioned competition also comes standard with electronic rider aids sprinkled on top, while the MT-03 goes about its entry-level business with non-switchable ABS. A downside? Perhaps, especially if you like tech and want to get acquainted with the systems you’ll find on larger-displacement bikes. The other argument is that ABS is all you really need for a safe dip into the world of motorcycling.
More practicality and user-friendliness come in the form of Yamaha’s mild-mannered, 321cc DOHC parallel twin, which made 37 hp and roughly 20 lb.-ft. of torque when last strapped to Cycle World’s in-house dyno. That’s a bit less performance than Kawaski’s Z500 or KTM’s 390 Duke, but a short first and second gear help with acceleration alongside traffic in city-street riding. The engine is happy to be revved too, with plenty of power above 6,000 rpm.
Handling-wise, the MT-03 fits the small-displacement bill with nimble, lightweight steering that makes it a confidence-inspiring bike to ride around town. Rear suspension duties are handled by the same preload-adjustable shock that comes on the sportier R3, while at the front, the MT gets softer fork springs in the KYB fork. Compression damping is also decreased compared to the R3, for a less aggressive ride. Despite the differences, the MT-03 is compliant on less-than-perfect roads without an overly soft or wallowy feel.
Ergonomics are relaxed thanks to a one-piece handlebar mounted to a top triple clamp that places the rider’s hands 1.5 inches higher than the R3 and 0.75 inch further back. Footpeg position is the same as the R3, while seat height is a friendly 30.7 inches. Of note, the top of the tank has flared edges that contribute to the MT-03′s “big bike” look, but make the seating area a bit cramped for riders with long legs.
The 298mm single front disc is matched to a twin-piston Akebono front caliper and has a beginner-friendly initial bite with adequate power for the MT-03′s intended usage. The front brake is a bit wooden when you get deep into the lever pull—squeeze harder and nothing really happens past a certain point. But this is right at the performance envelope of the bike, and in most situations, the front brake is just fine.
That, in some ways, tells the whole story of the MT-03. It is not the most performance-oriented or technically advanced small-displacement naked bike on the market, but it’s a capable and fun bike with sharp, aggressive lines that still help it stand out.
The 2024 MT-03 is available in Matte Stealth Black or Yamaha’s sportier-looking Midnight Cyan color option. Pricing starts at $4,999.