Yamaha has finally launched the third-generation R15 V3 in India priced at Rs. 1.25 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Yamaha YZF-R15 was first launched in 2008 and the second-generation or the V2 was launched in 2011. The V3 looks better, sharper and gets a host of updates, making it as desirable as it was when it was first launched. The design language for the R15 has been borrowed from its elder siblings, the new generation R6 and the R1 and it shows in the styling of the bike. Yamaha says that the drag co-efficient of the bike has decreased with the styling, making it more aerodynamic.
Also Read: Auto Expo 2018 Live Updates
Other feature updates include a new instrument console, which is fully digital, new headlamp cluster that dual-LED setup and daytime running lights (DRLs), while there is also a USB charging socket to connect your smartphone. The bike now gets a slightly relaxed seating position and the height of the pillion seat has been lowered to make it more accessible. The fuel tank is now 11 litres instead of the 12 litre one on the current bike. We were hoping that the R15 V3 came specced with upside down forks (USD) and IRC tyres as on the international model, but keeping costs in mind, the Indian version gets telescopic forks upfront and MRF tyres. The monoshock setup remains the same at the rear, while the bike now rides on a new Deltabox frame.
Also Read: Yamaha YZF R15 V3 Spied Testing In India
(The 2018 Yamaha YZF-R15 V3 makes more power, is more tech friendly too)
Power comes from the new 155 cc, liquid-cooled engine that produces 19 bhp at 10,000 rpm and 15 Nm of peak torque at 8500 rpm, which comes paired to a 6-speed gearbox. The engine runs on a higher compression ratio (11.6:1) and now gets lightweight forged aluminium piston. It also comes with variable valves actuation (VVA) that aids in providing torque at low rpm. The full faired motorcycle laso comes with an assist and slip clutch for a smoother operation under hard downshifts.
Braking setup on the new Yamaha YZF-R15 V3 includes a 282mm disc brake with a two-piston caliper at the front and a 220 mm disc at the rear with a single-piston caliper. There's no ABS on offer. Yamaha is offering the bike in two shades - racing blue and thunder grey. Deliveries for the R!5 V3 will commence from the first week of March.
For the latest auto news and reviews, follow carandbike.com on Twitter, Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.