Yamaha R15 V4 – The Supersport DNA You Can Own
In the Indian motorcycle market, very few bikes have a fan base as strong as the Yamaha R15. The latest iteration, the Yamaha R15 Version 4.0, takes things to a whole new level with MotoGP-inspired design, advanced electronics, and class-leading performance.
If you’re someone who dreams of owning a Yamaha R1 but wants a more accessible version, the R15 V4 brings you that same track-focused DNA in a more beginner-friendly and affordable package.
🛠️ Engine & Performance
The R15 V4 is powered by a refined 155cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine equipped with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). This allows for strong low-end torque and high-revving power, making the bike versatile for both city and spirited riding.
- Engine Capacity: 155cc, single-cylinder
- Maximum Power: 18.4 PS @ 10,000 rpm
- Maximum Torque: 14.2 Nm @ 7500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox
- Cooling System: Liquid-cooled
- VVA Technology: Yes
- Assist & Slipper Clutch: Yes
- Top Speed: ~140–145 km/h
With its high-revving nature, the R15 feels at home on twisty roads and even small racetracks. It’s the closest thing to a real supersport you can buy under 200cc.
⛽ Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Despite its sporty nature, the R15 V4 is surprisingly fuel-efficient, making it practical for daily use.
- Claimed Mileage: 45–50 km/l
- Real-World Mileage: 40–45 km/l
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 11 liters
- Riding Range: 450+ km on a full tank
Thanks to VVA, the engine only activates the second valve at higher RPMs, helping to conserve fuel during daily commutes and city rides.
🎨 Design & Aerodynamics
The design of the R15 V4 is heavily inspired by the Yamaha R7 and R1, with its aggressive front fascia, aerodynamic fairing, and sharp lines.
- LED Projector Headlamp with DRLs
- MotoGP-Inspired Tail Section & Winglets
- Slim Fuel Tank with Sporty Cuts
- Clip-On Handlebars & Rearset Foot Pegs
- Color Options: Racing Blue, Metallic Red, Dark Knight, MotoGP Edition
This version is more compact, sharper, and aggressive than ever, giving the feel of a proper track bike in a small displacement package.
⚙️ Features & Electronics
Yamaha has equipped the R15 V4 with segment-first features that elevate the riding experience.
- ✅ LED Headlamp & Taillight
- ✅ Fully Digital LCD Console with Yamaha Y-Connect App (in select variants)
- ✅ Bluetooth Connectivity: Call/SMS alerts, phone battery status, last park location
- ✅ Dual-Channel ABS
- ✅ Quickshifter (Upshift only – available in R15M & Racing Blue)
- ✅ Traction Control System (TCS) – rare at this price
- ✅ Assist & Slipper Clutch for smoother gearshifts
These features make the R15 the most technologically advanced bike in its class.
🪑 Comfort & Ride Quality
As a supersport bike, the R15 V4 has a naturally aggressive posture – ideal for spirited riding, but slightly demanding in traffic.
- Seat Height: 815 mm – accessible for average-height riders
- Suspension: Upside-down (USD) front forks & rear mono-shock
- Ergonomics: Aggressive with tucked-in riding position
- Kerb Weight: 142 kg – lightweight and flickable
While daily riding is possible, the R15 V4 truly shines on highways and twisty roads, where its dynamics come alive.
🛑 Braking & Safety
- Front Brake: 282 mm Disc
- Rear Brake: 220 mm Disc
- ABS: Dual-Channel ABS
- Tyres: MRF Nylogrip Zapper-S / Radial Rear Tyre (in R15M)
- Frame: Deltabox Frame – known for high rigidity and cornering stability
Braking is precise and progressive, providing full control even during emergency situations.
💰 Price & Variants
Yamaha R15 V4 is available in multiple variants:
- Standard (V4)
- R15M – Top-end model with metallic paint, premium seat
- MotoGP Edition – Graphics inspired by Yamaha’s racing team
- Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi): ₹1.82 lakh – ₹1.97 lakh
- On-Road Price: ₹2.10 lakh – ₹2.25 lakh (varies by city and variant)
While the pricing is premium, no other 150cc bike comes close in performance, features, and refinement.
✅ Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Top-class performance & high-rev engine | Aggressive riding posture for city use |
| Feature-rich – ABS, TCS, Quickshifter | Pricey for a 155cc bike |
| Best-in-class handling & cornering | Rear seat is not very pillion-friendly |
| Premium styling with R7 inspiration | Small fuel tank for long tourers |
| Reliable Yamaha engineering | Limited comfort on long commutes |
🔄 Competitors
The R15 V4 competes with:
- Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 – More power but heavier and less tech
- KTM RC 125 / 200 – More aggressive, but less refined in 125
- TVS Apache RTR 200 4V – Better city comfort but less sporty
- Bajaj Pulsar RS200 – Slightly older platform but more powerful engine
Still, the R15 V4 stands unmatched for refinement, electronics, and track-focused DNA.
🏁 Final Verdict
The Yamaha R15 V4 is not just a 155cc bike — it’s a statement for riders who want a lightweight, fully faired machine with supersport styling and race-inspired performance.
If you’re a beginner looking to enter the world of sportbikes, or an enthusiast wanting a daily ride that feels at home on the racetrack, the R15 V4 delivers unmatched value, reliability, and excitement.
It’s the closest you’ll get to owning a superbike under ₹2 lakh.
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