Despite being the most expensive 150cc motorcycle in India, the Yamaha YZF-R15 has always enjoyed a consistent demand. Yamaha recently launched the 2018 YZF-R15 V3.0. While we have had to make do with cosmetic upgrades over the last three years, the changes are more than skin deep this time around. Here is a list of five major upgrades on the new YZF-R15 V3.0 -
R1-inspired styling
For 2018, the R15 has drawn inspiration from the brand’s halo bike, the YZF-R1. The edgy front fascia, aerodynamic fairing, sculpted tank and the raised tail section give it a sporty appeal. For now, the R15 is available only with split seats, although an R15-S variant might be launched in the next few months.
LED lamps
Along with the styling, Yamaha has also added an LED headlamp and tail lamp to the new R15. The narrow slit-like headlamps perfectly complement the bike’s edgy styling. The R15 is the first motorcycle in the segment, and second in Yamaha’s portfolio to feature LED lamps.
New instrumentation
While the previous models featured an analogue tachometer along with a digital display, Yamaha has now switched to a fully-digital display. Over the previous display, it now integrates a gear position indicator, shift light, trip computer and a VVA indicator.
Bigger engine and VVA
The new engine features revised bore-stroke ratio and a higher compression ratio of 11.6:1. Even the displacement has been raised to 115cc, all of which have contributed to the higher output of 19bhp and 15Nm of torque.
The engine also features variable valve actuation, a technology hardly seen on motorcycles, let alone a small-capacity one. The engine has two intake valve cams, one for low and mid-range and another for the top-end. This allows the engine to be efficient when ridden sanely, without compromising on performance when the revs cross 7,400rpm.
Slipper clutch
The six-speed gearbox on the R15 now features a slipper clutch. Not only is it lighter to operate, the slipper clutch also reduces the back-pressure on the engine during high-rpm downshifts.
