A week with the Yamaha R15

Yamaha’s R15 V2.0 is the kind of bike which has you smitten from the moment you lay eyes on it – a real treat for all of you who have a thing for bikes (Yes, I know, you wouldn’t be reading this, if you weren’t).

Yamaha have always ensured that they give their very best to their loyal customers and fans. The R15 V2.0 follows in the same vein. By drawing some inspiration from the elder sibling, the R6, Yamaha have ensured that the R15 has undergone a complete transformation from its first gen avatar. The 17 horses (16.7 actually) sitting below the tank are complete thoroughbreds and the result is that the R15 V2.0 rides rather well, with the throttle response being particularly crisp. The bike simply loves to be revved. From open highways to the peak hour commute, there’s none of that suffocating feeling from the engine. The smooth shifting gearbox is an added delight that contributes significantly to the overall riding experience. Having said that, the R15 V2.0 does feel a tad stiffly sprung. Not that I was complaining, but those of you who’re upgrading from a commuter bike, shall definitely have to deal with this. Also, the aggressive riding position may be great for the track, but watch out for overworked wrists during regular usage. The pillion too has a tough time on the R15 V2.0. Perched atop the rider, he/she has little option but to lean onto the rider, which may be a good thing for some, but those wrists sure won’t let you forget.

The best way to enjoy the R15 V2.0 then is to ride it without anyone sitting behind you (your intended pillion can join in on another R15 V2.0). Moreover, all the pain vanishes when you take in the view, having stepped a few steps back from the bike. Those razor sharp R6 –inspired looks reminding you of just why you’re now a firm believer in the ‘no pain, no gain’ way of life.

The R15 V2.0 follows in the footsteps of its ancestor and retains its fun-to-ride quotient, even as it benefits from that longer wheelbase. It handles like a dream and is ever ready to do your bidding when you choose to flick it through a series of corners. All these characteristics combined with the new, split seating ensure that the rider is a part of the bike than ever before.

The R15 will always remain special. It came in and proved that you really do not need oodles of power to have fun, while at the same time reminded the world, just how thrilling a 150cc single can be. V2.0 then is a chip off the old block, taking the best bits from its predecessor and blending it with improvements, into one gorgeous package that makes you fall in love with it instantly. The R15 V2.0 is a bike that doesn’t just look good, but also offers terrific performance along with improved ride & handling. Makes you kind of happy & proud to see it wear the famed ‘Tuning Fork’ logo then.

Written by Ravi Verma