Yamaha has launched the new generation R15 V3 in many countries, except India. But that is soon going to change. The first units of the new R15 V3 has started arriving at dealerships. Bookings too have opened. Few of our readers, have booked one already, and shared photos of their advance booking receipts. Launch will take place in Feb 2018.
Though Yamaha India has not confirmed anything officially yet, but their dealers have told Rushlane that the bookings have opened at select outlets. With launch next month, expect deliveries to start soon. This is big news for those who have been waiting for the R15 V3. But, there is sad news as well. India-spec version of the R15 V3 will not be a full fledged R15 V3 which is on sale in international markets, but a cheaper variant, devoid of all the gadgets and hardware upgrades.
From the spy images, it is clear that the India-spec R15 V3 gets regular front forks, and not the upside-down (USD) forks which are on sale with international-spec R15 V3. It also misses out on the ABS. Then there is the same V2 like front fender, instead of the broader and more sportier fender of the V3. Tyres are from MRF, instead of the IRC tyres which we have seen on the international spec V3. Foot pegs are same as V2, and not the aluminium assembly. Even the slipper clutch is not expected to be featured.
So why is Yamaha India working towards launching a heavily downgraded R15 V3 instead of the real deal? Well, the answer is simple – To keep the launch price in check. International spec R15 V3 costs about Rs 1.7 lakh. If the fully loaded Yamaha R15 is launched in India, there will be very few takers. Instead, the company aims to replacing the existing V2 with the V3, and keep the costs almost same. You can expect the new R15 V3 to cost about 1.2 lakh upon launch in India.
Engine is expected to be same. New R15 V3 is seen with all new design and a 155.1cc single cylinder, liquid cooled, fuel injected engine with Variable Valve Actuation. This engine produces segment leading 19.31 PS peak power at 10,000 rpm and 14.7 Nm torque at 8,500 rpm mated to a 6 speed gearbox.
In terms of on board specifications, the new Yamaha R15 v3.0 gets an 11 liter fuel tank. It weighs 137 kgs and sports a Matte Black paint scheme, in addition to race blue and matt red. LED headlamps, slipper clutch and aggressive fairing is also a part of the features to be noted on the Yamaha R15 v3.0. Saddle height and seat position have also been raised to offer better rider and pillion rider comforts.
