Can Bajaj’s fully faired RS 200 take on Yamaha’s tried and tested YZF-R15 V2.0 in a no-holds-barred competition for top spot?

Both bikes have distinct-looking headlights — the Bajaj RS 200 has a futuristic design but benefits by twin projector lights up front, and the Yamaha’s YZF-R15 V2.0 has twin halogen lights. Bajaj’s lights do a far better job at illuminating the road at night.

Bajaj’s RS 200 has a more upright riding posture, suitable for riding longer distances. The Yamaha rider is seated in a forward position, with an aggressive lean into the handlebar; even the foot-pegs are extended backward for a sporty ride.

When we were at the twisties, both motorcycles proved capable enough. Rewarding when pushed to the limit.

Performance wise, Bajaj’s RS 200 is sure to keep the Yamaha YZF-R15 well on its toes.

The Bajaj RS 200 turns a corner really quickly.

The Yamaha YZF-R15 will turn in and attack the corner with composure, feeling more stable than the RS 200.

The Yamaha’s seat is fairly taller than Bajaj’s RS 200. The RS 200’s seat is also flattish compared to Yamaha’s aggressive-looking, yet soft seat.

Although the tail light on the RS 200 looks neat when tailing at night, it seems a bit over the top when seen in profile.

Bajaj provides a digi-analogue console that includes smart features such as a gear-shifter light and a clock.

Bajaj provides a hinged fuel cap here.

A plush split saddle makes way on the RS 200 and offers good support when riding long distances.

Grips and levers on the Bajaj are good to feel and touch.

Bajaj offers an upmarket gas-filled and 6-stage adjustable monoshock on the RS 200.

Well-designed and silver-finished, the foot-pegs on the RS 200 look smart.

Bajaj’s RS 200 is equipped with a disc brake at rear.

Yamaha’s YZF-R15 gets telescopic front suspension.

Yamaha typical handle grips and levers feel good to touch.

Yamaha also equips its YZF-R15 with a hinged fuel-filler cap.

The instrument console on the YZF-R15 V2.0 feels a bit dated.

The Yamaha’s split saddle is plush enough but seats the rider with a slightly forward stance.

Yamaha equips its YZF-R15 V2.0 with a lightweight, upmarket alloy swingarm.

The Yamaha gets a linked monoshock suspension at rear.