Yamaha is developing a new bike in Japan codenamed BG7 which could be the next generation R15 and is likely to hit the market in 2016.
Reports are coming in of Yamaha developing a new motorcycle internationally that has been codenamed BG7. While the company has several projects in the pipeline, this particular model holds great significance for India as the BG7 could be the next generation Yamaha R15 or the R15 V3.0 going by the automaker’s nomenclature in the country. The BG7 is being developed in Japan and is for exports in Thailand. The model will also make it to India.
Launched in 2008, the Yamaha R15 is an extremely capable performance offering that has played an important role in changing the landscape of entry-level performance bikes in India. Last updated in 2011 with cosmetic and certain mechanical revisions, the full faired bike is showing off its age now, especially with the competition getting better at the game. If the Yamaha BG7 is indeed the next generation R15, Yammie fans definitely have a reason to rejoice as the model will get more attractive styling, improved power output and enhanced ride and handling.
That said, the Yamaha BG7 is in its initial stages of development and concrete details on the offering can be expected by the end of this year or by early 2016. The launch timeline remains speculative as well and could make it to production by early 2016. Expect to see test mules coming up by next year. The outgoing Yamaha R15 V2.0 is powered by a 149.8cc liquid-cooled, SOHC single-cylinder engine producing 17 PS and 15 Nm of torque, paired to a 6-speed gearbox. The 150cc sports bike is priced at Rs. 1.14 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi).
