Yamaha YZF R15 sports bike spotted testing with conventional front forks
Yamaha YZF R15: Yamaha had unveiled its R15 v3.0 in Indonesia back in January 2017. At the moment, we were pleased to tell you how the motorcycle had some first-in-segment features. But a test bike of this R15 v3.0 has now been spotted in India and it seems to come with different specifications.
The new R15 v3.0 is operating traditional front forks instead of the more premium upside-down ones seen on the international-spec bicycle. The bicycle spied also used MRF tires and not the IRC ones were seen on the Indonesian-spec bike.
The spy image clearly proves that ABS is lacked by the bicycle, but so does the model. This tells us that Yamaha is most likely planning to launch the motorcycle before April 2018, since, as stated by the upcoming regulations, it is mandatory for manufacturers to equip all bicycle models over 125cc using ABS, for the launches proposed on or after April 1, 2018. Existing models will, however, have a deadline of April 1, 2019, to get equipped with the feature.
In the spy shot, the engine of the bike appears to be different to that of their present R15. It follows that we’re very likely to acquire the new, liquid-cooled engine from the international spec bike. But this motor features Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system that helps it make 19.3hp and 14.7Nm of torque. Now, as we’ve seen in different areas of the test bike, Yamaha is working towards keeping costs down and VVA will add to the cost. It is likely that India might find a valve timing system which will see electricity amounts but will result in a cost. The same goes for the slipper clutch offered with the global bike. We hope to know more regarding the launch date nears.
What we will get is the brand new styling, which will be in line with this. The front fascia is completely fresh and features LED headlamp units separated by a vent. The fairings also have been substituted, with the gas tank currently at 11 liters as against the v2.0’s 12 liters.
