Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 3.0 will be a step up in performance, safety

Japanese motorcycle manufacturer Yamaha is working on the next generation of YZF-R15. Emerging reports indicate that YZF-R15 Version 3.0 will be a giant leap forward in terms of performance and safety.

In an interview to Financial Express, Yasuo Ishihara, Managing Director of Yamaha Motor Research and Development India, said that with the next R15, buyers should be able to enjoy the bike more than anything else. He stressed that new version will be a step up from the current generation in all aspects of performance and safety.

From the information so far, R15 Version 3.0 will be based on the same Deltabox frame that underpins the current R15. The 149cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that develops 16.7bhp at 8,500rpm and 15Nm of torque at 7,500rpm will continue.

However, expect significant jump in power figures. The six-speed transmission will remain unchanged. The motorcycle will boast of dual disc brakes for clinical stopping power in addition to the ABS which is expected as standard. The suspension will also get updates in line with the new rivals.

The styling update is expected to be in line with the R25 that the company is selling in the international markets. A revised headlamp cluster with a central positioning lamp in line with YZF-R3 can be also expected. Twin air vents below headlamps will make the motorcycle sportier in looks.

The new YZF-R15 will be costlier than the current model and the market launch is expecting sometime in 2017.