The Tuning Fork brand has officially launched its tiny YZF-R2 in India, and it's a motorcycle with trademarks the world over.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn moreBack in late May, I speculated about the potential for a new small-bore Yamaha sport bike coming to the US market.While there was little more than trademark filings to go on at the time, I couldn't help but be excited about the possibility of the Tuning Fork brand expanding its portfolio through something approachable and commuter-friendly.Yamaha's YZF-R2 has officially launched in India. - Credit: YamahaWell, I'm glad to report that Yamaha has now officially launched the YZF-R2 in India. Regardless of whether it falls outside your home market, if you've been watching closely, you'll know that this moment matters.A preview of R2 promiseRemember, Yamaha has filed trademarks for the name in other regions, too, including the United States, Mexico, Europe and Australia. In other words, India is likely just the start. AdvertisementAdvertisementBesides, the launch finally gives the speculated new tiny R-series a physical form, and the bike shows real promise now that it has taken shape.It might be small, but the bike doesn't skimp when it comes to standard tech. - Credit: YamahaFor starters, it's built around a 204cc single-cylinder rated at 26.1 horsepower and 14 lb-ft of torque. This means it falls above the R15 but below the R3 in displacement and output, just as hoped.Moreover, Yamaha claims a curb weight of just 149 kilograms (328 pounds). While the brand says this gives the R2 best-in-class status among its rivals, the more significant takeaway may be that, on paper at least, it should be incredibly approachable.The design language keeps with Yamaha's larger R-series motos. - Credit: YamahaAll the same, Yamaha hasn't skimped on the bike's equipment. Along with a quickshifter on mid and top variants, the bike also touts standard features across the range like switchable traction control, a 5-inch full-color and an electronically controlled throttle body.AdvertisementAdvertisementAssuming that's not enough premium for the rider's tastes, Yamaha has also whipped up an R2 M model that follows the up-spec 'M' naming convention used across the bike's larger siblings.In addition to an eye-catching Metallic Gray paint scheme, it brings refinements such as Yamaha's Smart Key system, adjustable levers, a faux suede seat and special finishes on the swingarm and muffler cap.The YZF-R2 M brings desirable upgrades in the form of eye-catching paint, Yamaha Smart Key and an up/down quickshifter, among others. - Credit: YamahaAvailability and pricingWhen you consider the above in the context of the price, it adds up to a little bike with big potential. Yamaha is asking ₹2,30,500 for the standard YZF-R2 and ₹2,53,000 for the YZF-R2 M, roughly the equivalent of $2,400 and $2,650.While I'd expect the bike to ship for a good deal more, assuming it makes its way to the States, I'd still say it bodes well for what the Tuning Fork can deliver at an approachable price.Yamaha YZF-R2 Learn More AdvertisementAdvertisementAbout the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.
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