The newly launched Yamaha R15 V4 might not be a revolutionary leap from the V3 model, but it has some crucial updates that make it a scrumptious offering.
When Yamaha launched the baby sports bike the R15 way back in 2008, it aroused a proper craze for fully-faired motorcycles. Not only did it remind you of its iconic R-range of motorcycles line-up, but with a 155cc engine, it made sports bikes approachable for several enthusiasts. This connection is rare and Yamaha was lucky enough to find it. Ever since there has been no turning back and with the launch of the new fourth-generation YZF-R15 V4, things just got spicier. The new motorcycle sees no compromise with several gizmos on board. Like for example, the new golden coloured upside-down forks will instantaneously catch your eyes, aside from the new fairing design - which makes it more aerodynamic friendly. So, should you sell your old v3 model for the new YZF-R15 V4? Here is our detailed Yamaha R15 V4 Vs Yamaha R15 V3 comparison which will help you decide which one is better.
Yamaha R15 V4 Vs Yamaha R15 V3 Features Comparison
The fourth-generation Yamaha YZF R15 v4 is a significant leap from the R15 v3, for it comes packed with some segment-first features. For example, the standard traction control, alongside an optional quick-shifter is a first in a 155 cc motorcycle. Also, for the first time, the R15 comes fitted golden coloured upside-down fork suspension at the front, with anodized blue cover caps. The earlier v3 model came with front telescopic forks. As for the rear, the mono-shock absorber is the same as before.
Also Read: Yamaha R15 V4 vs Yamaha MT15 - Which One to Pick?
Both the wheels come fitted with disc brakes that now have dual-channel ABS as standard. Just like last year, the R15 v4 also comes fitted with the same 17 alloy wheels at the front and superwide 140 mm radial tyres at the rear which has a higher sidewall for better grip around corners.
While the R15 v3 used to feature a digital instrument cluster, it never had any connectivity option. The new R15 v4 now gets a revised instrument cluster with a Bluetooth connectivity option, a gear-shift indicator, along with two screen modes - Track and Street models. Theres also a slip & assist clutch system that makes shifting gears an effortless affair. This new digital console is also inspired by the mean, and range-topping YZF-R1, which makes it all the more lucrative to look at as well.
The new YZF-R15 v4 gets several exciting features like traction control, a quick shifter, and Bluetooth connectivity for the first time. The Yamaha YZF-R15 v3 come nowhere close to the fourth-generation R15 when it comes to the features list.
Yamaha R15 V4 Vs Yamaha R15 V3 Specification Comparison
Both the R15 V4 and the R15M get the same 155 cc engine that was used to power the third-generation R15. However, this single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-valve, 4-strokes, SOHC engine has been tuned slightly to produce 0.2Ps of less power at 18.4 Ps; and torque figures have increased by 1 Nm from last year to 14.2 Nm. The engine comes mated to the same 6-speed manual gearbox. Yamaha has also retained the VVA or Variable Valve Actuation technology with the YZF-R15 V4. This last bit makes riding the bike in heavy traffic situations in high gears a smooth experience and prevents stalling.
| ENGINE SPECS | Yamaha YZF R15 v4 | Yamaha YXF R14 V3 |
| TYPE | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve |
| DISPLACEMENT | 155 cc | 155 cc |
| POWER | 18.4 PS @ 10000 rpm | 18.6 PS @ 10000 rpm |
| TORQUE | 14.2 Nm @ 7500 rpm | 14.1 Nm @ 8500 rpm |
| BORE x STROKE | 58.0 x 58.7mm | 58 x 58.7 |
| COMPRESSION RATIO | 11.6 : 1 | 11.6:1 |
| FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| STARTING METHOD | Self | Self |
The Yamaha YZF-R15 shares the same engine as its predecessor, but it has been slightly tuned produces 0.2 Ps less power and 0.1 Nm more torque, than last year
Also Read: Yamaha R15 V4 and R15M Official Accessories Announced
R15 V4 vs R15 V3 Dimensions Comparison
The YZF-R15 v4 continues with the same Deltabox frame since its first generation. The exterior design has received a massive change, especially with the front fairing design. The front fascia now uses a Bi-LED headlight unit instead of two sleek headlights that were found on the V3 model. The rear also sees some slight tweaks in the form of a sharper taillight than before, but the grab handles remain the same. The riders seat is now wider and falter, and the fuel tank is narrower from before. This makes it easy for short riders to put their feet down in stop-and-go traffic situations.
Aside from these aesthetical changes, the new YZF-R15 v4 sees no changes on the dimension front. It measures the same 1990 mm long, 1135 mm tall with the seat height at 815 mm from the ground up. The short wheelbase of the 1325 mm makes the new R15 v4 the same compact, sports bike as before. And with the addition of the upside-down forks at the front suspension, the ride quality promises to be redeemed as well.
| DIMENSIONS | Yamaha YZF R15 v4 | Yamaha YXF R14 V3 |
| LENGTH | 1990 mm | 1990 mm |
| WIDTH | 725 mm | 725 mm |
| HEIGHT | 1135 mm | 1135 mm |
| WHEELBASE | 1325 mm | 1325 mm |
| GROUND CLEARANCE | 170 mm | 170 mm |
| SEAT HEIGHT | 815 mm | 815 mm |
| KERB WEIGHT | 142kg | 142 kg |
| FUEL TANK CAPACITY | 11-litres | 11-litres |
The Yamaha YZF R15 v4 has the same dimensions as its predecessor the R15 v3. There have been no changes to that, aside from the aesthetic upgrade.
R15 V4 vs R15 V3: Price
The new Yamaha R15 v4 in India is priced from Rs. 1.68 lakhs (ex-showroom). There is a Rs 10,000 jump from last year as the YZF-R15 v3 was priced from Rs. 1.57 lakh (ex-showroom). This new price range is justified with all the features upgrades and new designs. The R15 v4 is available in two variants - the regular R15 and the special edition R15 M. The latter comes with all the features as part of its standard equipment, along with a niche, and exciting-looking white and blue colour combination. Its suspension caps are also coloured in anodized blue, which adds to its exclusiveness.
The fourth-generation R15 v4 has a starting price that is Rs. 10,000 more than last years R15 v3 model. This price jump is justified given the several feature upgrades it gets.
Final Verdict
The new V4 model is a no-brainer and will any day feature in one of the best 150 cc sports bikes. Yamaha could have tweaked the engine for more empower and torque, however, that doesnt affect the performance or riding behaviour by any big margin. All in all, Yamaha has perfected the new fourth-generation R15 model, which was losing its charisma with the third generation R15.
What are your thoughts on the Yamaha R15 V4 vs Yamaha R15 V3 comparison? Do let us know in the comments box below. And for further guidance and discussions, you can also join our 91Wheels Telegram and 91Wheels Whatsapp to interact about anything on wheels with like-minded individuals. Also, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more about vehicles!
