Yamaha R15 V3-based WR 155R adventure motorcycle launched in Thailand

- Yamaha WR 155R adventure motorcycle launched in Thailand

- Shares its engine with the YZF R15 V3

- India launch unlikely as of now

Yamaha has launched its smallest adventure motorcycle, the WR 155R, in Thailand at the Bangkok International Motor Show 2020. It borrows its powerplant from the YZF R15 V3 fully-faired offering available in India, while the rest of the hardware is adventure-oriented. 

Staying true to its adventure theme, the Yamaha WR 155R boasts of minimalistic body panels. At the front, it sports a beak-like fender, a compact headlamp along with a straight handlebar. The puny fuel tank extends under the seat while the high-set, sleek tail section accommodates a flat seat. Notably, the fuel tank capacity of the WR 155R is as less as 8.1 litres.

Where the motorcycle truly shines is in the hardware department. The overall combination of 21-18-inch spoke wheels shod with knobby tyres and long travel suspension setup make it capable of taking on the trickiest of terrains. While the 245mm of ground clearance should also be a boon during hardcore off-roading, the tall 880mm of seat height means getting astride isn’t easy. Braking is handled by a disc brake at both ends but there’s no ABS even as an option. 

Now, although the WR 155R is powered by the same engine as that of the YZF R15 V3, the former produces lesser power and torque than the latter. Hence, the WR’s 155cc, single-cylinder engine with VVA (variable valve actuation) makes 16.5bhp and 14.3Nm. However, the torque comes in 2000rpm earlier than the R15. 

While we wish Yamaha brings the WR 155R to India, it’s unlikely as of now owing to the brand’s main focus being on volumes. Nevertheless, if it does come to our shores with the right pricing, it will be a great alternative over the Hero Xpulse 200 which is the smallest ADV available in India.