The Yamaha R15 is a top choice for sport bikes in India, known for its sleek design and powerful engine. This review will help you decide if the Yamaha R15 V4 M is the right bike for you, without focusing too much on technical details.
Overview
The Yamaha R15 V4 M is a great-looking bike packed with new features. Inspired by the R7, it looks more impressive than ever. However, it is a bit pricey, which might be a concern for some buyers.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 155 cc, 6-speed manual
- Power: 18.1 bhp
- Torque: 14.2 Nm
- Top Speed: 150 km/h
- Fuel Efficiency: 51 km/l (official), 45-50 km/l (real-world)
The ex-showroom price of the Yamaha R15M is Rs 1.97 lakh, while the on-road price is approximately Rs 2.35 lakh.
Yamaha R15 V4 M Colours
Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition:
- Features a bold and eye-catching design.
- Inspired by the Yamaha MotoGP racing team.
- Includes a blue and black base with Monster Energy graphics.
- Provides a vibrant and dynamic appearance.
Metallic Grey:
- A classic and versatile colour.
- Complements the sporty design of the R15M.
- Offers a sleek and understated look.
Why Should You Consider the R15 V4 M?
Performance
Engine and Power
The R15 V4 M has a 155 cc engine and a 6-speed manual gearbox, giving it 18.1 bhp of power and 14.2 Nm of torque. These figures are impressive for a 155 cc bike. Its aerodynamic design, inspired by the R7, reduces wind resistance and allows it to reach a top speed of 150 km/h.
Handling
This bike is known for its excellent handling. It’s nimble and precise, with a riding posture that enhances control. The USD forks also help with stability, even at high speeds.
Exhaust Note
The R15 V4 M has a great exhaust sound, which many riders find appealing.
Safety Features
- Dual Channel ABS: Important for safety on unpredictable roads.
- Traction Control System (TCS): Adds extra safety, though it’s not common on low cc bikes.
Build Quality
The R15 V4 M is well-built with high-quality materials. While there are some reports of rusting, especially near the beach, these are minor issues.
Points to Consider Before Buying the R15 V4 M
Riding Comfort
The riding position is good for sport riding but not ideal for daily commutes, as it can cause back pain. It’s also tricky to ride in heavy traffic.
Battery Issues
Some users have reported battery drain if the bike is idle for more than a week, linked to the Yamaha Bluetooth Y-Connect feature. Removing this feature seems to solve the problem.
Pillion Comfort
The pillion seat is much higher than the riderโs seat, typical for sports bikes. Consider this if you often have a passenger.
Night Riding
The single projector LED light is decent but might not be enough on highways or in foggy conditions. An aftermarket fog lamp can help.
Competitors
Suzuki Gixxer 155 SF / 250 SF
- Pros: Decent performance
- Cons: 155 SF lacks power, 250 SF might be too fast for new riders
Honda Hornet 160
- Pros: Reliable
- Cons: Weaker brakes compared to others
Bajaj Pulsar NS200
- Pros: Good overall performance
- Cons: Issues with clutch and engine cut-off reported by some new riders
TVS Apache 160 4V
- Pros: Good performance, no major issues
- Cons: None significant
KTM Duke 200
- Pros: Excellent performance
- Cons: Low ground clearance, some riders dislike the exhaust sound
Yamaha MT15
- Pros: Same engine as R15 V4 M, better for daily commuting, stable at high speeds
- Cons: Pillion seat comfort issues
Conclusion
The Yamaha R15 V4 M is a fantastic sportbike with great handling, performance, and build quality. However, its high price, sport-focused riding posture, and minor issues might make it less suitable for daily commuting. If you want a stylish and high-performing sportbike and can overlook these minor drawbacks, the R15 V4 M is worth considering.
