The Yamaha R15 S is essentially a mildly updated version of the original fully faired 150 cc sportsbike. The new variant has been launched at INR 1,14,741 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Strong customer feedback has prompted the company to bring back the older model and market it alongside the V2.0.
The primary reason for the launch of R15 S is that, a significant number of customers wanted the single-piece seat of the original bike since the sporty looking split seat setup of the R15 V2.0 can unnerve pillion riders at times.
The single-piece seat of the R15 S has considerably reduced the pillion seat height while reducing the saddle height by 10 mm compared to the R15 V2.0. The new tailpiece has also resulted in the overall length increasing by 25 mm to 1,995 mm. The wheelbase has been reduced to 1,290 mm from 1,345 mm. The kerb weight has dropped by 5 kg.
The Yamaha R1 S is an additional variant which is aimed at offering a wider choice to the customers. There are no changes to the engine.The 149.8 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled fuel-injected engine continues to produce 17 at 8,500 rpm and 15 Nm at 7,500 rpm. Transmission is a 6-speed unit. The performance figures, combined with a light kerb weight of 131 kg will make for a familiar energetic performance.
Visually, the switch to the single-piece seat and older tailpiece are the only changes. The R15 S borrows its silencer canister form the R15 V2.0. The bike is available in three different dual-tone color themes (Track White, Adrenaline Red, and Spark Green) with exclusive body decals.
Also read – Yamaha R3 launched in India
With the launch of the R15 S, Yamaha India has offered a wider choice to the budding racing enthusiasts.
Manaagement Speak
The Adrenalin Red Colour option on board the new R15 S.Mr. Roy Kurian, Vice President- Sales & Marketing, Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt. Ltd shared, “Yamaha R15 is a pure sports vehicle designed especially for racing enthusiasts so that they can experience the power and passion that a sports bike has to offer. However, our research showed that a particular customer segment desired for a single seat version as it is more convenient for the pillion rider. Even so, the split seat version 2.0 will also continue to be in the market along with the new single seat variant. We, at Yamaha keep our customers first and hence this introduction was imperative.”
