Yamaha R15 S vs R15 V4: Differences Explained

While both bikes share the same engine and chassis, they stand apart in terms of aesthetics, features and price

When you think of a 150cc sportbike in India, you can't ignore the Yamaha R15. This Japanese bike has become wildly popular over the years and is now the top choice in its category. Yamaha sells two versions of the R15: the R15 S, which is more comfortable and affordable, and the R15 V4, which is more aggressive and packed with features.

Both these bikes are built on the same platform and share key components like the engine and chassis. However, despite these similarities, there are a few differences between the two that set them apart from each other.

Design

At first glance, both of these bikes might appear similar. However, upon closer inspection, you'll notice differences in the fairing design, headlight, and subtle variations in the tail section.

The R15 S is based on the previous-gen R15 V3 and features an identical design to the V3, while the R15 V4 being the latest-gen model, has a more sleek and sharp design, making it look even more similar to its bigger sibling, the R1. The R15 S has split headlights whereas the R15 V4 gets a projector headlight with split LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights). The R15 S features a one-piece seat setup to provide more comfort while the R15 V4 gets a split seat setup, making the bike sportier. 

Engine

Both the R15 S and R15 V4 are powered by a 155cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with VVA (Variable Valve Activation) that produces a peak output of 18.4PS and 14.2Nm, paired with a six-speed gearbox.

Features

The Yamaha R15 S is equipped with the same LCD console as the R15 V3 while the R15 V4 features an updated LCD console with smartphone connectivity via the Y-connect app whereas the top R15M variant gets a Yamaha YZF-R1-inspired TFT console.

Both the bikes get a slip-and-assist clutch as standard, however, the R15 V4 gets additional features including traction control, a quick shifter and two riding modes: Street and Track.

Underpinnings

Both the bikes are built on a Deltabox frame (Yamaha’s name for a twin-spar frame). The R15 S is equipped with a telescopic fork whereas the R15 V4 gets an inverted fork, and both have link-type monoshocks at the rear. The R15 V4 at 141kg weighs 1kg less than the R15 S which weighs 142kg. Both the bikes feature a 282mm front disc and 220mm rear disc brake with dual channel ABS.

The rest of the underpinnings are the same in both bikes, including the 815mm seat height and 170mm ground clearance.

Verdict

Being priced at Rs 1,87,000, the Yamaha R15 V4 is Rs 21,800 more expensive than the R15 S, which comes in at Rs 1,65,800 (ex-showroom). If you want a more comfortable bike with the same power and are tight on budget, the R15 S could be the one for you. However, the R15 V4 justifies its premium as it offers a lot more features compared to the R15 S, and comes with fresh and sharper aesthetics, taking inspiration from the YZF-R1.