Abhijeet A
New Delhi: The legend just got a tech-infused upgrade. Yamaha has officially launched the 2025 R15 V4 in India, reinforcing its dominance in the entry-level performance segment. The R15, a nameplate that has defined affordable track-focused performance for over a decade, returns with its signature blend of aggressive styling and cutting-edge technology. While retaining its potent 155cc liquid-cooled engine with VVA technology, the 2025 model focuses on enhancing the rider experience with crucial tech upgrades. But in a fiercely competitive arena, is a tech refresh enough to keep the more powerful KTM RC 200 and the versatile Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 at bay? We break down the ultimate supersport Showdown.
Key Features at a Glance
| Specification | 2025 Yamaha R15 V4 |
| Engine | 155cc, Liquid-Cooled, 4-Valve, SOHC, FI Engine with VVA |
| Max Power | 18.4 PS @ 10,000 RPM |
| Max Torque | 14.2 Nm @ 7,500 RPM |
| Key Features | Traction Control, Quick Shifter, Dual-Channel ABS |
| Brakes | Front and Rear Disc with Dual-Channel ABS |
| Ex-Showroom Price | Starting from ₹1.85 Lakh (Delhi) |
Price Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Pay
Yamaha has positioned the 2025 R15 V4 as a premium offering, with ex-showroom prices in Delhi starting from approximately ₹1.85 lakh for the standard variants and going up to ₹2.12 lakh for the top-spec ‘M’ variants. However, the final on-road price will be a key consideration for buyers.
Here’s our expert estimation of the on-road prices for the new Yamaha R15 V4 across major Indian cities:
- Delhi: ₹2.16 Lakh – ₹2.50 Lakh
- Mumbai: ₹2.22 Lakh – ₹2.53 Lakh
- Bengaluru: ₹2.40 Lakh – ₹2.75 Lakh
- Chennai: ₹2.18 Lakh – ₹2.50 Lakh
(Note: These are estimated on-road prices and can vary based on the final ex-showroom price, chosen variant, state RTO taxes, and insurance premiums.)
2025 Yamaha R15 V4 vs. Its Biggest Rivals
The R15 V4 doesn’t just compete; it battles for glory against some of the most capable machines in the Indian market. Its main rivals offer more power, but the R15 has a few technological tricks up its sleeve.
| Feature | Yamaha R15 V4 (2025) | KTM RC 200 | Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 |
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | From ₹1.85 Lakh | From ₹2.23 Lakh | From ₹2.09 Lakh |
| Engine (CC) | 155cc (Liquid-Cooled) | 199.5cc (Liquid-Cooled) | 249cc (Oil-Cooled) |
| Power (BHP) | 18.4 PS | 25.8 PS | 26.13 PS |
| Mileage (ARAI/Owner) | ~45-55 kmpl | ~35 kmpl | ~35 kmpl |
| Key Feature/Weakness | Feature: Class-leading tech (Traction Control, Quick Shifter). Weakness: Lowest power output. | Feature: Sharpest handling & track focus. Weakness: Most expensive & aggressive riding posture. | Feature: Excellent engine refinement & touring capability. Weakness: Lacks the R15’s advanced electronics. |
Our Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The 2025 Yamaha R15 V4 continues to be the undisputed champion for the aspiring supersport rider. It’s a motorcycle that offers an authentic, big-bike feel without the intimidating power or wallet-busting price tag.
The 2025 Yamaha R15 V4 is the perfect motorcycle for you if: You are a budding enthusiast who wants to learn the art of track riding or simply desires the sharpest, most technologically advanced machine in its class. The addition of a quick-shifter and traction control—features unheard of at this price point—makes it an incredibly forgiving and rewarding bike to push to its limits. Its phenomenal mileage also makes it a surprisingly practical choice for daily commuting, as long as you can live with the committed, aggressive riding posture.
While the KTM RC 200 offers a raw, untamed track experience and the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 is a more comfortable and capable tourer, the Yamaha R15 V4 carves its own niche. It is the ultimate stepping stone into the world of performance motorcycling, offering a perfect blend of everyday usability, cutting-edge technology, and head-turning MotoGP-inspired design.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Yamaha R15 V4’s power (18.4 PS) enough for Indian highways?
Absolutely. While it has less power on paper than its 200cc+ rivals, the R15 V4’s 155cc engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) provides excellent performance across the rev range. It can comfortably cruise at triple-digit speeds, making it a capable highway machine for solo riders.
What is the benefit of a Quick Shifter on the R15 V4?
A quick-shifter allows the rider to perform clutchless upshifts. This is a feature typically found on much larger superbikes. It enables faster acceleration and provides a seamless, sporty riding experience, especially on open roads or a racetrack.
Is the R15 V4 comfortable for a pillion rider?
The R15 V4 is a focused supersport machine, and its pillion seat is quite small and high. While it is functional for short city rides, it is not comfortable for a pillion on long journeys.
How does the R15 V4’s mileage compare to the KTM RC 200?
The Yamaha R15 V4 is significantly more fuel-efficient. With a real-world mileage that can exceed 50 kmpl, it is far more economical for daily commuting compared to the KTM RC 200, which typically delivers around 35 kmpl.
