Our Editor is in Chennai to test ride and review the new 2018 Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 3.0. While he test rides the motorcycle for a detailed text and video review, we thought of creating a list of 10 features that you might want to know. Here are 10 features of the new 2018 Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0:
Design
For 2018, the Yamaha YZF-R15 gets a major visual overhaul with a sharper fascia featuring an all LED headlight, a muscular fuel tank, and a redesigned tail. The design, similar to previous generation models, is inspired by the current generation, litre-class YZF-R1. The motorcycle weighs just 139 kg (wet) and sports a 170mm ground clearance. The upgraded riding position (more aggressive) and wider size rear tire (140/70 – 17 – same size as offered in YZF-R3) are aimed to delivers a more sporty feel to the motorcycle.
Deltabox Frame
The new YZF-R15 continues to use the famed Deltabox frame which is claimed to offer excellent rigidity balance. The dimensions have been revised for the V3.0 as the motorcycle now features a shorter wheelbase. We’ll explain how does it affect the handling in our detailed review of the motorcycle.
Full-LED Headlight
The motorcycle features a first-in-segment full LED, twin headlight. The design is aimed to assist in overall airflow and also includes a hazard lamp.
All-new 155cc Engine
For 2018, Yamaha has equipped the YZF-R15 V3.0 with a new 155cc liquid-cooled SOHC 4-valve fuel-injected engine that is tuned to produce a healthy 19.3 PS of power at 10,000 rpm and 15 Nm of torque at 8,500 rpm.
Six-speed transmission
Unlike its rivals in the Indian market, the Yamaha YZF-R15 uses a six-speed transmission which is claimed to allow better acceleration even in low gears.
Assist & Slipper Clutch
The assist and slipper clutch are aimed to reduce the weight of the clutch pull and provide low-stress shifting during deceleration. The system prevents excessive engine braking during aggressive downshifts which would be handy on a race track.
Variable Valves Actuation (VVA)
The VVA system is aimed to provide torque for ease of use even at low RPM. There are two intake valve cams: one for low- to mid-range rpm and another for high rpm. They switch between each other at the 7,400 rpm mark to deliver good power and torque through the entire rev range.
Instrument console
The full digital instrument console includes 18 parameter display. The R1-styled cockpit comes equipped with a digital instrument gauge with shift light and VVA indicator. It also features a connector for USB charging.
Racing Kit
Track junkies can upgrade their standard YZF-R15 V3.0 with the official “Racing Kit”. The special kit, which can be purchased from authorised Yamaha dealerships, consists of more premium Metzeler tyre, Daytona muffler and Frame Slider. You’ll have to shell out an additional bucks over the standard model for the Racing Kit. The Metzeler rear tyre will cost you INR 9,998 while the Daytona muffler will be available for INR 16,700. Frame Sliders have been priced at INR 2,450.
Price
The Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0 gets a long list of features over its rivals, and its predecessor and yet, it has been priced competitively at INR 1.25 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), which is about INR 7,000 more expensive that the YZF-R15 V2.0. For that difference, you get an all-LED headlight, a full-digital instrument console, Assist & Slipper Clutch, and Variable Valves Actuation (VVA). However, unlike the international model, the motorcycle misses out on the upside down telescopic front forks. Instead, the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0 uses a conventional telescopic front suspension.
So those were a few features that the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0 brings along. Does it tempt you to buy the motorcycle? Let us know your views through the comments section below.