Yamaha YZF R15 Review

Yamaha YZF R15 Review

Yamaha YZF R15 changed the perception for 150cc motorcycles. This fast and agile model came with modern features, advanced engineering, superior design and flawless performance. 2011 saw the update with the Version 2.0 moniker featuring even better looks and fatter tyres. The superior deltabox frame gave brilliant handling characteristics and the superb brakes ensured confidence in riders. Another positive is the lighweight body the R15 has making it a nippy handler across different riding styles. The present competition like the KTM 200 Duke, Pulsar 200NS/200RS or even the cheaper Suzuki Gixxer SF are younger and do ask the R15 for an update.
The advanced 150cc engine has 4 valves and delivers very linear power. The engine is liquid cooled and produces 16.7bhp of maximum power and 15Nm of peak torque. The engine is built with fuel injection and has TCI ignition. The engine is mated to a precise 6 speed transmission that can extract the best out of that engine. These numbers might not look too fancy but the R15 is a completely enjoyable motorcycle to ride. The excellent fueling ensures smooth response which escalates in response when you thrash it around tight bends.
This little Yamaha can hold 12litres of fuel in the tank and offers a near 500km range. Fuel efficiency hovers around the 42kmpl mark which is more than enough for the performance it returns.
The Deltabox frame on the R15 is a wonder. Handling is precise and surefooted. The brakes deserve a special mention as they perform in a class above. The bite is sharp and they are very progressive. The chassis and brake setup can actually handle more oomph than it gets from the 150cc engine. The front suspension is telescopic and rear gets linked monocross. Yamaha has also increased the rear tyre width owning to numerous customer responses. The MRF Zappers designed for the R15 have a softer compound and grip very well on most surfaces. The wider tyre does take slight nippy handling away, but does return more grip than before.