Yamaha R15S V3.0 With Unibody Seat Launched At Rs 1.57 Lakhs

The Yamaha R15S V3.0 with unibody seat is in response to public demand for a R15 that would allow customers to ride along with a pillion without compromising the riding dynamics of the bike. Unlike the R15 V4.0 which features a split seat design, the seat on this 'Unibody seat' version of the R15S V3.0 is a single unit that flows from the fuel tank to the tail section of the bike.

Speaking at the launch of the R15S with Unibody seat, Motofumi Shitara, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group, said, "The YZF-R15 in its Version 3.0 was a huge success as it proved to be the most exhilarating model in the 150cc supersport segment with advanced technology and features. While the YZF-R15 V4 is being highly appreciated by customers across India, our research has shown that customers are also looking for a more viable option to commute with a pillion, without having to compromise on the Racing DNA of the R15. At Yamaha, we are always listening to what our customers' demand and make every possible attempt to meet those demands. Hence, the R15S V3 with a Unibody Seat was evident."

Other than the new seat, the new R15S V3.0 model does not differ in any from the regular R15S V3.0 that was sold before. The new R15S V3.0 continues to draw power from a 4-stroke, 4-valve, liquid-cooled, SOHC 155cc engine with variable valve actuation that produces 18.3bhp at 10,000rpm and 14.1Nm of peak torque at 8,500rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheel via a 6-speed gearbox. The Yamaha R15S also sports gets assist and slipper clutch functions.

The Yamaha R15S V3.0 features a delta box frame with telescopic front forks and a mono-shock with an aluminium swingarm at the rear. The R15S sports a 282mm front disc brake with two piston callipers and a 220mm rear disc brake with single piston callipers.

The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 100/80 R17M/C (front) and 140/70 R17M/C (rear) tyres. The brakes are ably assisted by dual-channel ABS.

The new R15S continues to sport the multifunction LCD instrument cluster with readouts for speed, gear position, fuel consumption among others.

Thoughts On The Yamaha R15S V3.0 With Unibody Seat

The Yamaha R15S V3.0 with unibody seat is the Japanese automaker's response to strong demand from customers for a more usable seat. The Yamaha R15 V4.0's split setup with the tiny rear seat along with extremely aggressive riding stance does not make it the best one to ride with a pillion rider. Hopefully, this new single-piece seat version of the R15S V3.0 will allow for an easier ride for those clinging on for dear life at the back of a R15.