The single seat on the R15 S is more convenient for the pillion rider than the V2.0’s split seat setup while the mechanicals are similar on both versions.
Responding to customer feedback, Yamaha India has launched the YZF-R15 S in the country priced at Rs. 1,14,741/- (ex-showroom, Delhi). Not priced dramatically different from the R15 V2.0, the R15 S is essentially the pre-facelift model that was sold between 2008 to 2011 before the split seat setup was introduced but gets modern hardware. With the new R15 S, the automaker is targeting a wider audience as the older model is a lot more practical over the V2.0. That said, both versions will be marketed simultaneously.
In terms of changes, the Yamaha R15 S gets a single seat that is significantly lower in height while the overall saddle height has reduced by 10 mm over the R15 V2.0. The tail section comes from the older model, thereby increasing the overall length to 1995 mm, while the LED tail light gets replaced by a conventional bulb. Under the belly, the R15 S draws power from the updated V2.0’s powerplant using a 149cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with fuel injection churning out 17 PS of power at 8500 RPM and 15 Nm of torque at 7500 RPM, paired to a 6-speed gearbox.
The Yamaha R15 S comes with a kerb weight of 131 kgs that is lighter than the V2.0 by 5 kgs, making for more responsive performance. The exhaust unit with the carbon fibre finish has also been carried over from the Version 2.0 model. Cosmetically, Yamaha has added new colour options and body decals on the R15 S to enhance the bike’s appearance. A true track-bred motorcycle, customers found the single seat equipped R15 to be more practical as the split seats weren’t comfortable for the pillion rider. Customers who regularly have pillion riders but want the performance too will appreciate the R15 S.
