Image: Keith Muir.

Yamaha Motor Australia has announced a range of contingency payments for YZF-R3 Cup competitors. The payments are aimed as not only a reward for reaching the podium, but also as an encouragement for the entry level riders that the new affordable series is designed to attract.

The third placed rider at each round will receive $100 while second place pockets $250 and the winner receives $500. In addition, a discretionary encouragement award of $75 will be announced by organisers for each race.

The contingencies will be paid to riders competing in the R3 Cup, with the next round due to kick off at Sydney Motorsports Park on 16-17 April.

Steven Cotterell, director and general manager of Yamaha Motor Australia explains the new Yamaha contingency program: “We know that racing is expensive so we are offering contingency payments to offset some of that cost. These payment also act as an incentive for riders to make the podium and as a reward for racing with Yamaha and supporting the brand.

In addition to payments for the top three riders, YMA has introduced a discretionary encouragement award for the R3 Cup because the new series is aimed at entry level participants whose main aim may be to enjoy the experience rather than place in the top three.

“We anticipate that these contingencies and other R3 Cup prizes totalling $42,000 will entice more riders to join the affordable and fun race series.”

The R3 Cup offers the ideal first step for aspiring racers who harbour ambitions to race professionally and join the ranks of Over 300 Production class, Supersport and Superbike competitors in the ASBK.

In addition to these R3 Cup competitor benefits, YMA is also rewarding Yamaha riders in other classes with cash incentives to encourage those wishing to step up through the racing categories.

“Our aim is to encourage riders in at the entry level with the R3 Cup and then offer them a platform to continue within the R Family through the Supersport and Superbike classes,” added Cotterell. “These bonus payments are indications that if you stay with Yamaha you may well benefit.”