Yamaha R15 V4 outshines KTM with its 155cc powerful engine and an amazing 55 km/l mileage, now the top pick among young riders
The new Yamaha R15 V4 has made a solid mark in the Indian sports bike segment. With its aggressive styling, sporty riding posture, advanced features, and most importantly, a 155cc powerful engine, the R15 V4 is giving tough competition to bikes like the KTM RC 125 and Duke 125. What sets it apart even more is the incredible mileage of 55 km/l, which is very rare in a performance-oriented bike.
Young bike enthusiasts are now leaning more toward the Yamaha R15 V4 not only for its sharp looks but also for its balance of speed and fuel efficiency. Let’s take a detailed look at what makes the R15 V4 the new favorite among young riders.
Yamaha R15 V4 – Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 155cc, Liquid-Cooled, 4-Valve |
| Power Output | 18.4 PS @ 10,000 rpm |
| Torque | 14.2 Nm @ 7,500 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-Speed with Assist & Slipper Clutch |
| Mileage | 50–55 km/l (claimed) |
| Top Speed | 140–145 km/h (approx.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 Litres |
| Weight | 141 kg (kerb) |
| Price Range | ₹1.82 – ₹1.95 Lakh (Ex-showroom) |
| Rivals | KTM RC 125, Bajaj Pulsar RS200 |
The Yamaha R15 V4 looks like a proper track machine. It takes inspiration from Yamaha’s bigger bikes like the R1 and R7, giving it a very premium and aggressive feel. The front features a single bi-functional LED headlamp with LED DRLs on both sides, which makes it look sharp and modern.
The fairing is aerodynamic and perfectly blended with the fuel tank, giving the bike a muscular stance. The rear is compact with a sleek LED tail lamp and a sporty exhaust. The clip-on handlebars and split seat setup further enhance the racing character of the bike.
This bike isn’t just a commuter; it’s a style statement, especially among college students and young professionals.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Yamaha R15 V4 is its 155cc liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve engine with VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) technology. It produces 18.4 PS of power and 14.2 Nm of torque, which is more than enough to give a thrilling ride experience in its segment.
The VVA tech helps maintain power delivery across the RPM range — meaning the bike pulls strongly both in low and high revs. It also features a 6-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch, which makes gear shifting smoother and reduces wheel hopping during aggressive downshifts.
This engine is refined, responsive, and fun — whether you are riding in the city or pushing the limits on a highway.
Ride & Handling
One of the best things about the R15 V4 is how well it handles. It feels stable and confident even at high speeds. The bike uses upside-down front forks (USD) and a rear mono-shock, which provide great feedback and control during turns and braking.
The riding position is sporty with slightly rear-set footpegs and low handlebars. It might feel a bit aggressive for daily commuting, but for spirited riding, it’s perfect. The bike also has dual-channel ABS, which improves braking performance and safety.
The lightweight chassis and excellent suspension setup make this bike a joy to ride for anyone who loves cornering and high-speed riding.
Features & Tech
The Yamaha R15 V4 is not just about looks and speed. It’s also packed with modern features:
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Bi-functional LED headlamp
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Fully digital LCD instrument cluster
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Bluetooth connectivity (Y-Connect app)
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Gear position indicator
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Ride modes: Track and Street (in higher variants)
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Side-stand engine cut-off
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Hazard lights
These features add both style and convenience, making the R15 V4 feel more premium than other bikes in this price segment.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Despite being a performance-focused bike, the Yamaha R15 V4 delivers a remarkable mileage of up to 55 km/l, which is outstanding in the 150–160cc sports segment. This is possible due to Yamaha’s VVA technology and efficient engine tuning.
In real-world riding conditions, users can easily get around 48–52 km/l, depending on riding habits. With an 11-litre fuel tank, the bike offers a range of over 500 km on a full tank, which is perfect for both city rides and short trips.
Price & Variants
The Yamaha R15 V4 is available in several variants, with prices ranging from ₹1.82 lakh to ₹1.95 lakh (ex-showroom). Variant names include:
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Standard
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M Variant (with quick shifter and extra features)
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M with MotoGP Edition (for sportier looks)
The price may vary depending on the color and extra features, but all variants offer good value considering the performance and tech included.
FAQs
Q. Is Yamaha R15 V4 suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s beginner-friendly but offers a sporty experience. It may feel aggressive for short riders due to its posture.
Q. Can it be used for daily commuting?
Yes, though the riding position is sporty, many users use it for daily commutes comfortably.
Q. Is the R15 V4 better than KTM RC 125?
In terms of performance, mileage, and price-to-power ratio, R15 V4 clearly offers better value than KTM RC 125.
Q. What is the service cost of R15 V4?
The maintenance cost is reasonable for a performance bike, with services usually costing ₹1,000–₹1,500.
Final Verdict
The Yamaha R15 V4 strikes a perfect balance between performance, style, and fuel economy. It has set a new benchmark in the entry-level sports bike segment and has quickly become the go-to choice for young Indian riders. With a powerful 155cc engine, excellent 55 km/l mileage, and eye-catching design, it offers everything a sporty commuter needs.
If you want a bike that performs on the road and turns heads at every stoplight — the R15 V4 is a top pick.