What to expect from Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 3.0

The Yamaha YZF-R15 continues to consistently rake in good numbers, despite getting just one major styling overhaul in the last nine years. Yamaha will be introducing the newest iteration of the entry-level sportbike in the next few months. Here is what you can expect from YZF-R15 Version 3.0 - 

Edgy styling

The edgy design of the YZF-R15 Version 3.0 draws influence from its bigger siblings. The fairing of the YZF-R15 has been redesigned with a twin-headlamp unit similar to the YZF-R6 giving it a sporty and aggressive appeal. The raised and minimalistic tail section with the split seat assembly resembles the M-Slaz. The low clip-ons, rear set footpegs and sculpted fuel tank give it a sporty riding position. 

Features

The old console with the analogue tachometer makes way for a fully-digital LCD display with gear position indicator, average speed recorder and a shift light. Like the FZ25, Yamaha has gone for LED units for the headlamps. The deltabox perimeter frame and aluminium swingarm will be carried over. ABS will not make it to the features list, even as an optional extra. 

Telescopic front suspension 

We let out a loud sigh when the first set of R15 Version 3.0 spy shots came in. For the India-spec model was seen riding on the telescopic front forks setup similar to the existing model, and not inverted forks like the global model. An inverted forks setup significantly improves the handling of the motorcycle. However, Yamaha seems to have retained the telescopic forks considering that most of the owners don't ride hard enough to reach the limits of the conventional setup. This also helps reduce the manufacturing cost of the motorcycle. 

Same old engine

Globally, the new YZF-R15 gets a 155cc engine mated to a six-speed gearbox. This mill is 2bhp more powerful than the current model. However, we do not expect Yamaha to bring this engine to India. The new model might retain the 150cc engine, which delivers 16.7bhp and 15Nm of torque. This is again a step taken to keep costs in check. 

Pricing

The upside though, is that we can expect the YZF-R15 Version 3.0 to be competitively priced. All the new-fangled technology could have resulted in the new model going precariously close to the Rs 1.5 lakh mark, making it pricier than the FZ25. However, with the cost cutting, the YZF-R15 Version 3.0 might be priced around Rs 1.4 lakhs (on-road).