Rajesh Kumar have developed a deep connection with the world of motorcycles.
We had previously
rode the Yamaha R15 V4 but only for a brief time during which we were unable to
fully use the many modifications that the bike has undergone.
This time we did and
this is what we produced.
Overview
The R15 is the Yamaha
motorbike that is more well liked than the RX100.
Since its introduction the motorbike has significantly
increased the manufacturers sales figures …
We had previously
rode the Yamaha R15 V4 but only for a brief time during which we were unable to
fully use the many modifications that the bike has undergone.
This time we did and this is what we produced.
Quality
The V3s component
quality was one of its main drawbacks.
And it pleases us to
see that Yamaha has addressed that issue.
The R15 V4s component
construction quality has significantly increased over the V3.
There are no visible
gaps between the panels on the R15 V4.
Additionally the cockpit is tidy and rather upscale with the
wiring neatly hidden away.
Furthermore the
switchgears buttons have a high end appearance and feel and the black plastics
are also of exceptional quality.
Yamaha has redesigned
the R15 in a stylish manner using cues from the R1 and R7 in addition to
improving the build quality.
As a result it has an aggressive looking front end with a
projector headlight between two LED DRLs.
In addition more creases have been added to the fairing
design to improve aerodynamics.
To complete the R15s
new look even the tail portion is now sharper than before.
Coziness
The R15 V4s lofty
seat height is 815mm on paper.
However it seems low once sat due to its tiny fuel tank and
taper to the seat which will help shorter and novice riders feel comfortable.
The handlebars have
also been adjusted by Yamaha becoming somewhat lower and broader than
previously.
Additionally it does provide a committed riding stance since
the foot pegs are positioned higher up.
A well cushioned seat
is another change albeit it can be too snug for bigger people.
On extended journeys it gets uncomfortable since even the
pillion seat is small and just has the tail scoops for support.
Performance
The Yamaha R15s most
notable features have always been its very responsive chassis and powerful
155cc engine which has been used in a number of other two wheelers produced by
the Iwata based company.
The formula for the R15 V4 is thus essentially the same.
It goes on to a Dela box frame with an engine that produces
14.2 Nm and 18.1 horsepower.
These figures now
vary from those on the V3 torque has increased by 0.1 Nm but power has
decreased by 0.2 BHP. Has it altered the
R15s behavior though?
Not at all. The engine has been adjusted to provide the
best of both worlds thanks to its VVA technology.
Up until 4500 rpm it
may seem a little drab but when the tachometer reaches 7000 rpm and the VVA
takes over the R15 V4 is in its element and blazing.
With joy the motor
reaches 12500 rpm and reaches a maximum speed of around 146 kmph. Although it takes some time to get there the
performance is reliable.
In addition to being
sporty the R15s engine is tractable.
Even while cruising
at speeds as low as 35 kmph in sixth gear the motorbike maintains a very calm
demeanor.
Speaking of which the
gearbox of the R15 V4 shifts smoothly through all six ratios.
The smooth shifts are
further enhanced by the quickshifter and minimal clutch pull.
However the motor is
not flawless in every way..
The sensations are subtle at first but they become
considerably stronger as you go closer to the redline.
Now the suspension
and every aspect of the R15 V4 have been designed to be sporty.
Surprisingly it does
not seem startling over bumps even though it is designed to be firmer.
It is still handled
with the same acuity.
If the rider is
ready to take advantage of it the R15 V4 has enough of turning clearance and
tips in nearly quickly.
In the city this also
translates to intuitive handling.
Through traffic it
is swift and nimble and the powerful motor just enhances the experience.
The brakes were another feature that impressed me.
They provided strong
bite and stopping power and even after being used extensively throughout the
city and ghats they showed no indications of fading.
Technology
Yamaha has advanced
by providing the R15 V4 with some cutting edge technology.
A quick shifter is available as an optional item (standard
on the R15 M) and a traction control system is standard.
Additionally there is an LCD screen with Bluetooth
capability that can be connected to a smartphone using the Yamaha Motorcycle
Connect app.
The phones battery
level and call SMS and email notifications may then be shown on the screen.
To round off the
package the LCD display also has a Track option.
Last but not least is the full LED headlamp configuration
which includes LED DRLs and an LED projector with a decent light throw but
little dispersion.
Efficiency of Fuel
Because of its
tractable engine and VVA technology the Yamaha R15 V4 achieved an outstanding
fuel economy of 51.4 kmpl on our test route.
The R15 can thus go around 550 kilo meters on a single full
tank of petrol thanks to its 11liter capacity.
Personal suggestion
Yamaha has improved
the R15 with each successive version and the V4 is no exception.
It now has a design
to aim toward and is of much higher quality.
For once the R15 is
equipped with every feature found in the international spec model.
Indeed the R15 is more costly than its predecessor with a
starting price of Rs 1.72 lakh but with the upgrades it seems more complete as
a city motorbike and a track tool for beginners.
Additionally it seems to be a much better package than the
KTM RC 125 which costs Rs 1.82 lakh has less power and lacks amenities that the
R15 possesses.
Author Bio Rajesh Kumar
Rajesh Kumar is an avid bike rider and passionate motorcycle reviewer based in Pune Maharashtra India.
Over the past two years Rajesh has explored diverse terrains across India gaining first hand experience with various bike models in real world conditions.
His deep enthusiasm for biking combined with technical knowledge allows him to provide insightful reliable and engaging reviews that help fellow riders make informed decisions.
resource
https://www.bikewale.com/yamaha-bikes/r15/
credits
All image and featured by bikewale
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