We reported that Yamaha’s R15 V4 line-up was set to get streamlined. Now, our dealer sources mention that the range-topping R15 M variant could be discontinued. However, there has not been any official confirmation from Yamaha. The R15 M’s discontinuation should make the choice a bit easier for consumers, as the flagship M variant was priced too closely to the base variant of the recently launched R2, a slightly more powerful offering.
- Bookings are still open for the limited stock
- Quickshifter likely to be an accessory for the base variant
Yamaha plans to discontinue the R15 M
R2 will be the immediate step-up from the R15
Currently, the R15 prices start at Rs 1.76 lakh for the base variant and go up to Rs 2.02 lakh for the M variant (ex-showroom, Maharashtra). This means the fully loaded R15 costs only Rs 39,000 less than the base R2. By removing the M variant from the line-up, the price gap between the R15 and R2 jumps to Rs 60,000.
The additional Rs 60,000 gets you 49cc more in displacement, DOHC (dual overhead camshafts), 8.1hp more power, 4.9Nm more peak torque, a TFT instrument cluster and updated styling compared to the R15. This distinction can help make the buying decision a bit simpler.
Currently, bookings for the M variant remain open for the limited stock available with the dealerships. Along with the above changes in the line-up, the quickshifter is likely to be offered as an accessory for the base R15.
Stephen Raj Antony
Dinshaw Magol
