Yamaha R15 V4 vs MT-15: Differences Explained

Just days ago Yamaha launched the Yamaha YZF-R15 V4 in India. It’s been revamped with better looks, features and hardware, for a premium of course. But just how different is it from the existing MT-15? And could we expect the R15’s updates to make it to its sibling as well?

Better hardware

The new R15 V4 finally gets a USD fork, a feature that was exempted from the third-generation model in a bid to cut costs. The exact same mantra was applied to the MT-15 when it was introduced in India in 2019. The current model still uses a conventional telescopic fork rather than a USD. But that could change once Yamaha rolls out the MT’s update.

Apart from this, the R15 also gets a lighter, more premium cast aluminium swingarm, and a new heat shield for the exhaust. The MT-15, on the other hand, makes do with a box-section swingarm and a really small heat shield.

Segment First Features

The R15 V4 is currently the only bike in its segment to offer a quickshifter and traction control system. These come as standard on the  R15M, Racing Blue, and MotoGP Edition models. It’s possible that Yamaha could offer the same features on the MT as well in the near future. At the moment though it comes without them. 

• Yamaha YZF-R15: Old vs New
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• Yamaha R15 V4: Official Accessories Revealed

New Digital Console with Yamaha's Y-Connect

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The next biggest change is the new console on the R15 which benefits from Yamaha's Y-Connect app. This opens up new vistas for the display. For instance, the console now has two display modes: Street and Track, a lap timer, gear position indicator, call/message alerts, mobile battery status, connection status, average fuel efficiency and last parked location. Customers can also track the same info via Yamaha's dedicated app. Apart from this, you can also view information like instantaneous fuel economy, intake air temperature, Eco indicator, degree of throttle opening and rate of acceleration.

Performance

Both bikes use the same VVA-equipped 155cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, however, there’s a minor difference in power figures. The R15 makes 18.4PS and 14.2Nm of peak torque as opposed to the MT which produces 18.5PS and 13.9Nm. The latter also uses a larger sprocket which offers more torque lower down the rev range, but this eats into its top-end performance.

Ergonomics And Rideability

Of course, the ergos on the R15 are quite aggressive owing to its supersport pedigree. On the flip side, the MT-15 is more relaxed with a wider handlebar. What’s also different is the wheelbase. The R15 measures in at 1325mm, 10mm shorter than the MT. This makes it a bit sharper than the MT while tipping into corners.

But if you factor in the weight, the MT is actually 4kgs lighter than the R15 V4 which should make it a lot easier to manoeuvre in traffic or simply move it around in the parking lot. 

All-in-all we’d say the R15 V4 is a much better proposition, that is if you’re willing to stretch your budget. The MT-15 is a pretty good option as well if your commutes are mostly restricted within city limits.