2017 Yamaha R15 Gets Variable Valve Timing

The 2017 Yamaha YZF-R15, popularly known as the Yamaha R15, now gets a toned down version of variable valve technology. Dubbed Yamaha's variable valve actuation (VVA), it is a basic version of variable valve technology which uses a mechanism to shift between cam profiles for low-rpm engine speeds as well as high-rpm speeds. The VVA allows Yamaha to use a single overhead cam which makes the cylinder head more compact, and is also said to return sharper throttle response. Yamaha says the new R15 gets 18 per cent more power and a 4.7 per cent increase in fuel efficiency, with a slight 3 per cent increase in engine displacement.

The engine is now a 155 cc single-cylinder SOHC mill capable of producing 19.3 bhp at 10,000 rpm and 14.7 Nm of peak torque at 8500 rpm. The VVA technology helps regulate fuel combustion at different speeds and throttle inputs and the new engine also gets a higher compression ratio. On the equipment list, the 2017 R15 gets bigger front brakes, upside down forks and a slipper-assist clutch. Also new are LED headlights and a full-digital instrument console. The new Yamaha R15 V3.0 is longer, wider and taller than the outgoing model, but with a shorter wheelbase, which is expected to make the bike an agile handler.

The Yamaha YZF-R15 was first introduced in India in 2008 and has been one of India Yamaha's popular 150 cc models, thanks to its supersport design and agile handling. The R15 was upgraded in 2011 with a V2.0 version with a new ECU, longer swingarm, wider tyres and minor design upgrades. In 2015, India Yamaha introduced the Yamaha R15 S, with minor cosmetic changes, including a single-piece seat and new body graphics. The current Yamaha R15 features a 149.8 cc single-cylinder engine which makes 16.8 bhp of maximum power and peak torque of 15 Nm. The new R15 has already been launched in Indonesia and has achieved record online bookings over the weekend.

Rumours of the imminent launch of a new Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0 have long been doing the rounds, and now the Indonesia launch of the R15, the R15 V3.0 seems all set for an India launch in the coming months. When contacted, India Yamaha declined to comment on a date, but hasn't denied plans of the new launch as well.