Yamaha R15 V4 vs V3: 5 Major Differences

Yamaha has launched its fresh upgrade of R15 i.e. R15 V4 recently. Yamaha R15 is among the most famous sports motorcycles in the Indian market. The previous generation R15 was launched at the Auto Expo 2018 and was a great hit in the market. After that, the company has now launched the fourth generation of the motorcycle. Let’s dig into what are the major changes between the Yamaha R15 V4 vs V3.

What does the latest R15 V4 have to offer in terms of features above V3?

Yamaha R15’s new fourth-generation offers some great segment-first features and better features than the previous generation as well. The new R15 comes with a revised instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity on the go. The YZF-R1 has inspired the instrument cluster and also features track and street modes and a gear shift indicator. On the other hand, the previous generation R15 didn’t have Bluetooth connectivity. One similarity among both the versions is the slip and assist clutch which was there earlier and is there now as well. 

The latest version is upgraded with the traction control system along with some variants having a quick shifter for clutchless and smooth upshifts. Finally, the first Indian R15 to get USD forks suspension at the front is the R15 fourth generation while the rear gets mono-shock absorbers. The earlier version, on the other hand, had telescopic front forks. 

The new R15 V4 is equipped with disc brakes on both ends with standard dual-channel ABS. There’s no difference in the tires of the previous and the latest version. 

Yamaha R15 V4 vs V3: Some Stunning Design Changes

The automaker’s all-new supersport motorcycle YZF-R7 has inspired the design of the R15 V4. A new front fascia is implemented in the latest version while the dual-LED headlamps are replaced with the single LED projector headlamps. They are also equipped with stunning DRLs. The new version also features re-designed fairing, a new visor, new seats, etc. To diversify the series more, the company has also launched Yamaha R15M to offer an even more sporty bike to its customers. 

Is there any change in terms of the performance?

There’s no change in the engine of the older R15 and the latest version including R15M. But the company has made a few changes to improve the bike’s performance. The new Yamaha R15 and R15M get a 155cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected, and liquid-cooled engine. Both of them are BS6 compliant as made mandatory by the Indian Govt. The new version’s motor is capable of producing 18.4hp at 10,000 RPM while the previous version could produce 18.6hp. There’s a slight change in the torque production as well. The new version can produce 0.1Nm more torque i.e. 14.2Nm at 7,500 RPM than the older version at 1000 RPM early. The engine is combined with a 6-speed manual transmission. Both of the new motorcycles come with Yamaha’s VVA technology i.e. Variable Valve Actuation.

The M-Upgrade and Mechanical Changes

Yamaha has launched the M series in the Indian market for the first time. It comes with carbon-like seat covers for both rider and pillion while it also offers a special amazing color scheme. It also features anodized blue fork caps, embroidered logo on the pillion seat, and golden-colored brake calipers.

The aerodynamic drag coefficient is improved as the automaker says from 0.307 on the V3 to 0.293 on the V4. The latest version comes with a better chassis balance due to the reinforced subframe. Easy weight shifting is there now along with easy ground reach and good hold. 

All the dimensions, however, are the same in both the outgoing and latest variant even the weight of both the bikes is similar i.e. 142 kg. 

New Variants and Colours: Yamaha R15 V4 vs V3

The older version of Yamaha R15’s recently recorded starting price was ₹1.57 Lakhs while the new version starts at ₹1.67 Lakhs which is not a huge difference considering the feature and technology changes. The customers get a fresh design, reliable performance, and great features for the extra buck. 

The variants list along with prices are mentioned in the below table:

Let’s see if the new Yamaha R15 V4 and R15M will be a hit in the market just like the R15 V3 when it was launched way back in the 2018 Auto Expo. What do you think? Do let us know in the comments section below.