Yamaha R15 Version 3.0 fully revealed in India

Powerdrift has published images of the uncamouflaged India-spec R15 Version 3.0. Since the bike has been seen without camouflage, we think that it’ll be launched soon. Generally such uncamouflaged bikes seen before the launch are usually on the sets of ad shoots or at dealer/factory stockyards.

As the test mules revealed, the India-spec R15 will get many changes specific for the Indian market. These changes are mainly meant to reduce costs. Upside down front forks will be replaced by regular telescopic front forks. The IRC tyres will be replaced by MRFs and even the footpegs are made of steel instead of aluminium. The bike will ride on alloy wheels and will be offered with disc brakes. However, ABS does not seem to be on offer. The engine of the R15 Version 3.0 sold abroad is a 155cc unit.

This engine, which is liquid cooled and fuel injected, makes more power and torque – 19.3 PS and 14.7 Nm. It is not yet clear if Yamaha will offer the bigger engine in India or if it’ll continue with the 149cc engine that the current R15 is sold with. Another important bit is the gearbox, which is a 6 speed unit. The international R15 V3.0 also gets a slipper clutch. It’s not known if the slipper clutch will be carried over to the Indian version.

The new version of the R15 will be launched in India at or before the 2018 Indian Auto Expo. The new model is expected to replace the Version 2.0. The new bike will get stylistic changes mainly on the front end. It will also receive LED headlamps and tail lamps. It gets an all-digital instrument cluster and an aggressive riding position. The bike will be sold as an affordable track tool. Prices are expected to start from Rs. 1.2 lakhs. The R15 Version 2.0 technically has no direct competition in India.