The Yamaha R15 V5 is the next version of Yamaha’s popular 150cc sportbike line, aimed at enthusiasts who want better performance, sharper styling, and more tech without jumping to a larger displacement. It builds on the legacy of the R15 series by adding upgrades in engine refinement, handling, connectivity and design.
Engine, Power & Performance
Underneath its muscular fairings, the R15 V5 carries a 155cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). That means the engine adjusts valve timing to deliver a broader performance curve: strong low/mid torque and still capable of revving high. The claimed figures are about 18.4 PS at 10,000 rpm and 14.2 Nm torque at ~7,500 rpm. The engine is paired with a slick 6-speed gearbox that includes an assist & slipper clutch for smoother downshifts. Some variants may also feature a quick shifter for clutchless upshifting.
Styling, Design & Build
Visually, the R15 V5 has been sharpened and modernized. It uses aggressive fairings with aerodynamic touches for better airflow and stability. The front gets a bi-functional LED projector headlamp surrounded by LED DRLs, lending it a more premium, race-inspired look. The tank is sculpted, lines are sharper and body graphics are more striking—colors like Racing Blue, Metallic Red, Dark Knight etc. are expected. The rear features a split-seat setup, LED tail lamp, and a compact exhaust that complements the sporty design. The clip-on handlebars and sporty stance give it a lean and aggressive posture.
The frame remains Yamaha’s Deltabox, which contributes to rigidity and sharp handling. Suspension setup is upgraded with 37 mm upside-down (USD) front forks and a linked-type rear mono-shock. Wheels are 17-inch alloys front and rear with radial tubeless tires.
Features & Tech
One big focus of the R15 V5 is technology and rider aids. It comes with a fully digital LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity (Y-Connect app), allowing features such as call/SMS alerts, vehicle diagnostics, ride statistics, and last parked location tracking. In higher variants, features like traction control (TCS), quick shifter, dual-channel ABS, side-stand engine cut-off are included. The lighting system is full LED, including indicators, for both visibility and style. Gear position indicator, shift light, and real-world useful features like lighting customisation are also expected.
Handling, Comfort & Riding Dynamics
The riding posture is sporty—clip-on handlebars, stepped seat and rear-set foot-pegs. This gives a race-bike feel which is fun on curves and highway runs but may be a bit aggressive for long rides or for pillion comfort. Yamaha has made small tweaks to ergonomics (like handlebar position, footpeg placement) to improve comfort without losing sporty character. Ground clearance is decent for urban roads. Braking is handled by disc brakes front and rear, with dual-channel ABS to enhance safety in wet/slippery conditions.
Fuel Efficiency & Practical Usage
Even though it’s a performance oriented bike, the R15 V5 claims good fuel economy: approx 45-50 kmpl under standard conditions depending on riding style. The fuel tank is about 11 liters, giving a usable range for city and highway rides. The engine is tuned for better throttle response, smoother running, and reduced vibrations, making everyday riding more comfortable.
Price & Variants
The R15 V5 is expected to launch in multiple variants in India. The base model’s ex-showroom price is predicted to be around ₹1.85 lakh with higher variants (with Quick Shifter, Traction Control System etc.) going up to about ₹2.05-2.10 lakh. Color/graphics special editions may cost a bit more. These prices may vary slightly from city to city.
Pros & Cons
Pros: you get a sporty look, premium features in a sub-2-lakh price range, good handling, and modern tech like TCS and quick shifter which earlier bikes in this category lacked.
Cons: aggressive posture means less comfort over long rides, pillion comfort is not super generous, price is somewhat premium for 150cc segment—some buyers may compare with slightly cheaper bikes.
Conclusion
All in all, the Yamaha R15 V5 aims to be a sport-bike that balances style, performance, and modern tech. For riders who want something more than the usual commuter-bike—someone who enjoys twisties, spirited highway rides, and premium touches—this looks like a strong option. It delivers class-leading features in the 150cc sport-bike segment and moves the benchmark forward.