Yamaha R15 V4 – The new standard for 150cc sports bikes
If you are a fan of the 150cc premium sports bike segment in India, then you must have heard the name of Yamaha R15 V4. Launched in September 2021, this fourth-generation supersport bike is a great blend of racetrack-inspired design, advanced features and refined engine. It is specially designed for those young riders who want style, performance and technology in one package.
Design and Styling
Racing DNA look
The R15 V4 is inspired by Yamaha’s bigger supersport bikes—like the R1 and R7. Its sharp and aerodynamic full-fairing design gives it a “big-bike” look. The front is extremely aggressive, with bi-functional LED projector headlamps and DRLs. Winglets and sculpted panels on the side make the bike even more sporty.
Premium Touches
- Gold-finished USD forks
- Clip-on handlebars
- Premium paint finish
All these things make this bike stand out and classy in the segment.
Colour Options
You can buy it in several colours:
- Metallic Red
- Racing Blue
- Dark Knight
- Intensity White
- And a special MotoGP edition (in the R15M variant)
With these colour schemes, every rider can choose the bike according to his personality.
Engine and Performance
A combination of technology and power
It is equipped with a 155cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled SOHC engine that comes with VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) technology. This engine produces 18.4 PS of power (at 10,000 rpm) and 14.2 Nm of torque (at 7,500 rpm).
VVA Benefits
The VVA technology offers good pickup even at the low-end and does not lose power at the high-end. This means that the bike feels fun even at slow speeds in the city and is powerful even at high speeds on the highway.
Gearbox and Quick Shifter
- 6-speed gearbox
- Assist and slipper clutch—making gear changes smooth and easy
- Some variants (like Racing Blue and MotoGP Edition) also get a quick shifter, allowing upshifts without pressing the clutch.
Speed and Performance
Although the power is the same as the previous version, the rev-friendly character and free-revving nature of the engine makes it extremely fun to ride. It can go up to 130–140 km/h in good conditions.
Chassis, Suspension and Brakes
Race-inspired Deltabox frame
Yamaha’s Deltabox frame is derived from race bikes. It has a twin-spar steel structure that:
- Provides faster cornering
- Better stability
- And smoother handling
Suspension setup
- 37mm USD forks at the front
- Linked monoshock at the rear
This combination delivers a balanced ride both in the city and on the highway.
Braking system
- 282mm front disc
- 220mm rear disc
- Dual-channel ABS standard
Brake feedback is good, although some riders say the initial “bite” could have been a little sharper.
Riding position and comfort
Sporty position
The R15 V4 has clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs, which are great for track riding. The seat height is 815 mm and the weight is around 141–142 kg—so it feels light and agile.
Comfort Factor
It is comfortable for short distances and sporty rides, but long city rides may initially cause strain on the wrists and back. The pillion seat is small—not ideal for two people on long distances.
Features and Technology
Modern instrument cluster
- Monochrome LCD display
- Street and track modes
- Lap timer
- Gear position indicator
- Phone alerts via Yamaha Y-Connect app
- Call/SMS notifications
Safety and Electronics
- Dual-channel ABS
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Side-stand engine cut-off
- Hazard lights
- Full LED lighting
- Quick shifter (in Track mode) on high-end variants
Mileage and Range
Power meets efficiency
The R15 V4’s mileage is excellent despite its sporty nature:
- Official: 45 km/l
- Real-world: 48–55 km/l (more at constant speeds on the highway)
Fuel tank
With an 11-litre tank, it can go around 550 km on a full tank. So no need to look for a petrol pump again and again for long highway rides.
Ownership Experience
Positive feedback
- Excellent build quality
- Smooth and refined engine
- Sharp handling
- Great mileage
- Service cost between ₹1,500–₹2,000
Some challenges
- Occasional oil drain if ridden continuously on highways
- Limited pillion comfort
- Early fatigue from aggressive riding position in city traffic
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Premium look and finish
- Advanced features (ABS, TCS, quick shifter)
- Great handling
- Excellent mileage
Cons:
- Position fatigue on long city rides
- Pillion seat small
- Price a bit high for 155cc
Price and variants
- Base variant: around ₹1.84 lakh (ex-showroom)
- R15M and special editions: up to ₹2.12 lakh
- Rivals: KTM RC 125, Honda CBR150R
The price is high, but the features and ride quality justify it.
Who should buy it?
- Young riders who want a track-style look and feel
- New riders who want a feature-rich bike
- Weekend highway riders
- People who value style and tech over engine size
Final Verdict
The Yamaha R15 V4 sets a new standard in the 150cc sports bike segment with its racetrack-inspired design, advanced features and polished riding experience.
Dual-channel ABS, USD forks, TCS and quick shifter give it a premium feel.
If you want a bike that is fast, stylish, tech-packed and reliable, the R15 V4 is a great choice—provided you get used to its sporty riding position.
