The Yamaha R15 has always punched above its weight class with aggressive styling, engaging performance and confidence-inspiring dynamics belying its 150cc displacement. Taking these traits even further is the all-new R15 V4 featuring beastly design language, a higher state of tune 155cc VVA motor, beefier chassis components led by upside down front forks and a host of electronic rider aids.
We comprehensively analyze the pricing, efficiency, features and technical details of Yamaha’s new supersport motorcycle to examine if it presents good value for buyers desiring litre-class performance in a value-packed package.
Justifying the Significant Price Premium
The Yamaha R15 V4 is positioned as a premium offering in the R15 lineup – demanding almost a Rs 50,000 price premium over the outgoing R15 v3 model.
At Rs 1.81 lakh ex-showroom, it is one of the most expensive 150cc motorcycles in India. Costing over Rs 30,000 more than its arch rival the KTM RC200 (priced at Rs 2.09 lakh in Delhi) may seem questionable when considering displacement figures alone.
But Yamaha is banking on the new model’s heavily upgraded engine, cycle parts and electronics package to justify its introductory sticker price. Here is a brief price comparison across some major cities:
| City | R15 V4 | R15 v3 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | Rs 1.84 lakh | Rs 1.39 lakh | +Rs 45,000 |
| Bangalore | Rs 1.83 lakh | Rs 1.38 lakh | +Rs 45,000 |
| Hyderabad | Rs 1.79 lakh | Rs 1.36 lakh | +Rs 43,000 |
In addition, buyers need to account for road tax, registration and insurance costs which vary across states. Delivered price is estimated to be between Rs 2.05 lakh to Rs 2.20 lakh depending on the city and coverage opted.
Many customers may compare the R15 V4 against more affordable offerings like Bajaj Pulsar RS200 at Rs 1.67 lakh, TVS Apache RR310 at Rs 2.65 lakh and Kawasaki Ninja 300 at Rs 3.37 lakh. But Yamaha aims to justify the outlay through its class-leading level of advanced tech and components.
Exploring the Mileage and Performance Credentials
Alongside being feature-rich, Yamaha’s engineers have eked out maximum efficiency and usable power delivery from the 155cc single cylinder, liquid cooled mill on the new R15 V4 model through extensive refinements. Let’s analyze the improvements:
VVA Technology Maximizes Efficiency
The engine employs Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) which alters valve lift duration and overlap across the rev band to achieve optimized performance based on riding conditions. Benefits include:
- Improved torque output at lower RPM for better rideability
- Reduced pumping losses to maximize fuel efficiency
-Uninterrupted power delivery through smooth transitions
Yamaha claims a 19% reduction in frictional losses allowing the engine to spin freely to high RPMs – power doesn’t fade away sharply. Combined with the VVA system, efficiency and user-friendliness sees marked gains.
Engine Performance Figures Analyzed
Thanks to reduced mechanical losses, improved combustion efficiency via revisions to port timings and VVA system, the 155cc motor makes higher peak power while extending its usable rev range.
- Max Power – 18.4 PS @ 10,000 RPM
- Max Torque – 14.2 Nm @ 7,500 RPM
These represent the highest power and torque figures for a stock R15 motor till date. Redline is set at 11,500 RPM highlighting performance focus.
The additional 1.4 PS may seem minor on paper but makes a noticeable difference in acceleration and punchiness when riding. With kerb weight of only 142 kgs, the power to weight ratio is a best-in-segment 128 PS/tonne – matching some 250cc naked bikes!
Thus performance enthusiasts get a feel reminiscent of bigger supersports but with an engine character retaining the free-spinning excitement associated with smaller machines through deft power delivery. Mileage hasn’t been compromised either…
Understanding the Array of Advanced Electronic Aids
Seeking to minimize asymmetry in rider inputs which causes loss of grip or stability, Yamaha has equipped the R15 V4 with an array of advanced aids to make performance more accessible. They represent a first for the 150-160cc category highlighting the focus on electronics.
Quick Shifter for Rapid Gear Changes
The quick shifter utilizes sensor inputs to enable extremely rapid clutchless upshifts. As the rider actuates the shift lever, ignition timing is cut and fueling interrupted momentarily allowing near instantaneous changes facilitating urgent acceleration or high speed riding:
Benefits
- 30% faster upshifts than manual changes
- Keep hands on handlebars when accelerating hard
- Smoother weight transfers
- Lower lap times on track
It complements the slipper clutch beautifully – downshifts remain manual lever actuations but stability is maintained as engine braking forces are regulated. Experts may choose to disable electronics but most buyers will appreciate this assist.
A&S Clutch System Explained
A&S stands for Assist and Slipper functionality. The assist mechanism uses a cam damper setup which significantly reduces clutch lever effort – a light pull is sufficient thanks to optimized lever ratio. Slipper functionality is facilitated by back torque limiting architecture:
How the Slipper Clutch Works
- Rapid downshifts generate high engine RPM with the rear wheel slower in speed
- This speed differential causes strong engine braking on normal wet clutches
- Locking the rear is avoided as the slitper clutch allows the inner hub to slip
- Wheels don’t lock even during aggressive downshifts
Thus stability is maintained with reduced fatigue enabling quicker direction changes, longer track sessions and greater control even for novice riders.
Chassis and Dimension Details
The bike’s chassis uses a tried and tested Deltabox frame with optimized rigidity balance. Focus has been on shedding weight – the frame, subframe and swingarm are more lean. Ergonomics suit both relaxed commuting through adjustable handlebars and rear set footpegs facilitating committed riding stance. Seat height of 815 mm is beginner friendly.
For sharper dynamics, government unsprung weight has reduced by 4 kgs courtesy beefier upside down front forks. Radial construction of the rear tyre also boosts stability. Here’s a look at key measurements:
| Attribute | Dimension |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 1320 mm |
| Rake Angle | 25o |
| Trail Length | 98mm |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 142 kgs |
Overall dimensions haven’t increased substantially over the older R15 V3 ensuring easy maneuverability in traffic. Excellent power-to-weight ratio combined with aggressive weight distribution creates a very flickable motorcycle – it changes direction faster than any 150cc rival!
Ergonomics, Design and Bodywork
Drawing clear inspiration from Yamaha’s big R series bikes like the R1 and R6, the R15 V4’s design elements visually convey its performance. The visually compact side profile and pointy tail section resemble Yamaha’s MotoGP machine giving this entry-level performance bike an upmarket aura.
1. Beastly Styling
- Split LED headlights and angular mirrors
- Pumped up tank shrouds and beefy air scoops
- Clip-on handlebars facilitates aggressive stance
- Rear set footpegs allow for deeper knee bend
2. Aerodynamic Efficiency
- Angular front fairing aids penetration
- Sharp tail minimizes turbulence behind rider
- Reduced drag helps achieve higher speeds
3. Ergonomic Flexibility
- Adjustable offset clip-on handlebars
- Variable footpeg positioning
- Accessible 795 mm seat height
Thus the focus remains evenly split between form and function. The bike turns heads through beastly elements while incorporating several smaller improvements adding up to a more value-packed and well-rounded package.
Verdict – Who is the R15 V4 Perfect For?
Yamaha’s latest supersport quite convincingly builds the case for being the new segment benchmark when all areas ranging from engine performance to electronics are considered.
The Rs 50,000 price premium over the older R15 V3 is substantial but generated excitement validates customers see strong value in the upgrades:
The R15 V4 Suits You If
- Desire a balanced everyday supersport motorcycle
- Keen on class-leading electronics like traction control
- Prefer refined high performance to outright peak power
- Will leverage ASS and quickshifter functionally
- Want a feature-rich 150cc bike with premium appeal
Thus the R15 V4 takes its successful formula to a higher level instead of radical reinvention – boosting strengths people enjoyed previously to create an unmatched package. It heralds a new generation of smarter middleweight machines!
