Yamaha R15 v3.0 Spotted Before India Launch

The Yamaha R15 v3.0 has been spotted testing yet again. The upcoming third-generation of the R15, however, was spotted with an all-new paint scheme this time around. The signature Yamaha blue seen in previously leaked images seems to have been replaced by a matte silver paint scheme with black stripes and a dash of red that runs from the split-headlights to the top of the fuel tank.

From earlier spy shots of the R15 v3.0, it is evident that the 150cc motorcycle will continue to use a split headlamp setup, albeit with LED units as seen on the international model. The new motorcycle also gets a sharper fairing when compared to the outgoing model. The shape of the fuel tank, however, seems to have been carried forward for Asian markets. Sadly, the tank’s fuel capacity has dropped to 11-litres from the 12-litres of R15 v2.0. The all-new R15 is also expected to receive a fully digital instrument cluster this time around. Keeping line with its sporty character, the R15 v3.0 gets a smaller pillion seat than before.

The only feature that is likely to set the India-spec R15 v3.0 from the international model are the front forks. The India-spec bike is expected to make do with conventional telescopic forks instead of the premium USD ones seen on the international version. The test mule spotted recently was also seen wearing MRF rubber instead of IRC tyres seen on the international model. Yamaha seems to have given ABS a miss too. However, we think it could be offered as an optional extra here. All these changes have been made to cut down costs to help price the R15 v3.0 competitively. 

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The engine on the India-bound v3.0 seems to be carried over from the international bike. The new 155cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine features Yamaha's Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system, a fact confirmed by graphics along the side which read "VVA Variable Valve Actuation". It helps the motor in churning out 19.5PS of power and 14.7Nm of torque. The previous version only produced 16.58PS of  power and 15Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and it will be interesting to see if the new bike gets slipper clutch or not. 

According to various reports, the bike is scheduled to be launched sometime early next year. With the new engine and other additional features, it is safe to say that the R15 v3.0 will be priced higher than the current version which retails for Rs 1.18 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). However, we expect the price jump to be minimal. For more details on the bike watch this space!