Yamaha R15S

The Yamaha R15S is the most affordable and practical version of the R15 available on sale in India. It comes with a similar design as that of the Yamaha R15 V3, but with more comfort and practicality, thanks to the single-piece seat. The R15S shares its 155cc engine with the R15 V4, meets OBD2 emission standards and delivers the same power and torque.

Design

Having a similar design to the R15 V3, the R15S boasts aggressive looks and a striking design. It comes with a full fairing, sharp lines, and a sculpted tank with faux gill vents, adding to its appeal. At the front, the sportbike features a split LED headlight with a centrally positioned faux air duct and a black telescopic fork. The bike has a clean look at the back with a sleek LED tail light. The 140-section rear tyre enhances the overall sporty appeal. Although the tyre hugger may not flow with the overall look, it serves a practical purpose. However, despite its practicality, the bike lacks proper pillion-grab rails.

Engine, Mileage & Performance

The versatile 155cc engine in the R15V4 left a strong impression, and the R15S should also be similar considering it shares the engine with the V4. The power delivery feels smooth and consistent, starting from low revs below 4000rpm. While the engine may feel less urgent at these lower revs, the bike’s usability remains impressive. It can still pull strongly from speeds as low as under 20kmph, even when in 5th gear. It can even maintain speeds as low as 35kmph in sixth gear, displaying impressive tractability.

The R15S and R15V4 have a bit less power than the V3, with 18.4PS instead of 18.6PS, but slightly more torque at 14.2Nm compared to 14.1Nm. It reaches its peak power at 7200rpm instead of 8500rpm. Even though it has a quickshifter, it takes a bit longer to accelerate from 0-100kmph at 13.25 seconds compared to the V3. However, it still keeps a good balance, especially when you consider that the RC 125 costs more but has less power. The R15S delivers a real-world tested mileage of 47.92kmpl on the highway and 48.75kmpl in the city, and it has an 11-litre fuel tank.

The Variable Valve Activation (VVA) system optimises engine performance by adjusting valve timings, improving low-end acceleration and enhancing top-end power. The instrument console notifies the rider when the VVA engages (at approx 7,400rpm) adding an extra level of engagement to the riding experience.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Yamaha R15V3 is a sharp-handling bike and performs very well around the corners as the Deltabox frame inspires confidence when cornering. The R15S gets the same chassis and will be as exciting to handle. It is a lightweight and nimble machine that excels at riding both around twisty roads and city traffic. However, the low, clip-on handlebars can be a drawback during U-turns, as it comes very close to the tank and end up limiting wrist movement. This makes giving throttle input a bit challenging, particularly during right turns.

Equipped with a 110-section front and a 140-section rear tyre, the R15S provides decent ride quality. The addition of a radial rear tyre ensures better handling thanks to more flexible sidewalls that offer a greater contact patch while cornering as compared to rigid ones. 

Comfort

The Yamaha R15S has the same 815mm seat height as the R15 V4, but its contoured single-piece seat provides more comfort than its counterpart. The sub-frame has also been tweaked and has brought down the pillion seat height. The suspension isn’t tuned for a plush ride but offers a decent ride quality for a sportbike. Despite being a practical sportbike, the R15S demands a forward-leaning riding posture. When ridden for longer hours, its low-positioned clip-ons can strain the wrists and lower back.

Features

The Yamaha R15S comes with split LED headlights, an LED taillight and bulb indicators. It features a digital LCD instrument console that welcomes you with 'Hi buddy' at startup, which can also be personalised to your name. The console is clearly readable and displays information such as speed, odo, tachometer, two trip meters, average mileage indicator, and gear position indicator. However, it misses out on smartphone connectivity and navigation features.

The R15S is equipped with VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) which is Yamaha's terminology for variable valve timing. It boosts the bike’s top-end performance without compromising low-end power.

Should You Buy The Yamaha R15S?

The Yamaha R15S is a more budget-friendly and practical alternative to the R15 V4. It is a worthy choice for beginner riders. If you are looking for a sportbike that combines sporty appearance with impressive performance while being comfortable and practical, then the Yamaha R15S can be the one for you.