The Yamaha R15 V5 2025, launched in India in October 2025, elevates Yamaha’s legendary R15 series with sharper design, cutting-edge features, and refined performance. Priced between ₹1.90 lakh and ₹2.10 lakh (ex-showroom), it targets young riders, college students, and sportbike enthusiasts seeking thrill and style in the 150cc segment. Competing with the KTM RC 125, Suzuki Gixxer SF, and Hero Karizma XMR, it combines race-inspired dynamics with everyday usability. Here’s a detailed review of its price, specifications, features, and performance in India as of August 30, 2025.
Aggressive Design and Agile Build
The Yamaha R15 V5 2025 boasts a sharp, aerodynamic design inspired by Yamaha’s larger sportbikes, the R7 and R1. It features a sleek fairing, aggressive LED projector headlamps with bold DRLs, aerodynamic winglets, and a compact tail section, available in vibrant colors like Racing Blue, Metallic Grey, Vivid Magenta Metallic, and a MotoGP Edition. Measuring approximately 2015mm long, 725mm wide, 1135mm high, with a 1325mm wheelbase and 170mm ground clearance, it weighs 141-142 kg, ensuring agility for city and track use.
The bike’s Deltabox frame enhances stability, while golden USD forks and a smoked visor add premium flair. It features tubeless radial tires (110mm front, 140mm rear) for superior grip. The aggressive riding stance with clip-on handlebars prioritizes sporty dynamics, but the compact, elevated pillion seat may compromise long-ride comfort. Build quality is improved over the R15 V4, with a metal fuel tank option addressing plastic panel durability concerns, though some plastic components remain.
Vibrant TFT Display
The R15 V5 introduces a full-color TFT instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity via the Y-Connect app, displaying speed, RPM, gear position, fuel level, trip data, call/SMS alerts, turn-by-turn navigation, and ride analytics. Features like a hazard switch, side-stand engine cut-off, and customizable display modes enhance practicality. The vibrant display is readable in most conditions, though direct sunlight may slightly reduce visibility compared to premium superbikes.
Track-Ready Performance
Powered by a 155cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), the R15 V5 produces 20 PS at 10,000 rpm and 14.2-17 Nm at 7,500-8,500 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox featuring a standard quickshifter and slipper clutch. It achieves a top speed of 150-160 km/h, with quick acceleration ideal for spirited riding. The engine is E20 fuel-compatible, meeting BS6 Phase 2 emission norms, and offers refined performance for city commuting and track days.
The bike’s upside-down front forks (37mm) and linked-type Monocross rear suspension ensure agile handling and high-speed stability, though the aggressive riding posture may feel tiring on long rides. It delivers a fuel efficiency of 38-45 km/l in real-world conditions, with some claims of up to 62-65 km/l under ideal scenarios, making it economical for its class.
Advanced Features and Safety
The R15 V5 is packed with modern features:
- Dual-channel ABS for precise braking on wet or dry roads.
- Traction control system to reduce wheelspin on loose surfaces.
- Quickshifter (up-shift) for seamless gear changes.
- Assist and slipper clutch for smoother downshifts and reduced rear-wheel hop.
- LED lighting (headlamps, DRLs, indicators, taillight) for enhanced visibility.
- Split seats with integrated grabrails for a sporty look and rider comfort.
The 282mm front disc and 220mm rear disc provide strong braking, though some riders note the need for careful modulation during emergency stops to avoid skidding.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at ₹1.90 lakh to ₹2.10 lakh (ex-showroom) for Standard, Deluxe, and MotoGP Edition variants, on-road prices in Delhi range from ₹2.15 lakh to ₹2.40 lakh, including RTO, insurance, and accessories. Pre-booking offers and festive discounts (up to ₹15,000) are available, with EMI plans starting at ₹2,800/month and a ₹25,000 down payment. The bike is sold through Yamaha dealerships, yamaha-motor-india.com, and platforms like BikeWale, with deliveries starting early 2026. Maintenance costs are moderate, averaging ₹5,000-8,000 annually, with Yamaha’s extensive service network ensuring support. Delivery times range from 15-30 days due to high demand.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Riders praise the R15 V5’s aggressive styling, responsive engine, and feature-packed TFT display, with the quickshifter and traction control enhancing the riding experience. The fuel efficiency and agile handling are highlights for city and track use. However, drawbacks include compromised pillion comfort due to the compact seat, an aggressive riding posture unsuitable for long rides, and high maintenance costs compared to commuter bikes. Some users note that plastic panel durability could be better, despite improvements over the R15 V4.
Comparison with Competitors
The Yamaha R15 V5 2025 competes with:
- KTM RC 125 (₹1.90 lakh, 125cc, 14.34 bhp): More affordable, but less powerful.
- Suzuki Gixxer SF (₹1.37 lakh, 155cc, 13.4 bhp): Cheaper, but lacks advanced features like quickshifter and TFT display.
- Hero Karizma XMR (₹1.80 lakh, 210cc, 25.15 bhp): Larger engine, but less refined and heavier.
The R15 V5 excels with its premium features, refined engine, and Yamaha’s brand trust, though its price is higher than some rivals.
Final Thoughts
The Yamaha R15 V5 2025, launched in October 2025, is a game-changer in the 150cc sportbike segment, offering a sharp design, advanced features like a TFT display and quickshifter, and track-ready performance. Its 155cc VVA engine, agile handling, and fuel efficiency make it ideal for young riders and enthusiasts, though pillion comfort and long-ride ergonomics are limitations. With competitive pricing, festive offers, and Yamaha’s robust service network, it’s a top choice for those seeking style and thrill in India’s entry-level sportbike market.
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