Yamaha R2 vs R15 Compared
Yamaha just launched the new YZF-R2 (or just R2) in India and it expands the company’s single-cylinder R family. This is a global debut for R2 supersport motorcycle and Yamaha India’s flagship is not a 150cc bike anymore, as R2 is now the flagship here. It has been priced between Rs 2.31 lakh and Rs 2.53 lakh (Ex-sh).
Considering just 50cc difference between both the bikes and almost similar ethos and styling, one would think that R2 is just a R15, but with a bigger engine. However, that is not the case as there are more changes under the skin making them distinct from each other. So, we are comparing Yamaha India’s previous flagship and the latest flagship.
Yamaha R2 vs R15
In terms of pricing, the new Yamaha R2 looks like it is priced at a premium. Surely, it packs more features and equipment over the R15. One might think R2 is just a little more than R15, but R15 is already priced at quite a premium as the range-topping M version has crossed the Rs 2 lakh (Ex-sh) mark already.
Where design and aesthetics are concerned, both R15 and R2 follow the same R design language, but R2 gets the newest flavour of it, while R15 is the same old looker as it was before. R2 has the new LED DRL signature to set itself apart. R2 is based on a Diamond-type frame, while R15 comes with the Deltabox perimeter frame, which is more sort after.
Yamaha R2 vs R15 Compared
The primary change is in the engine department as R2 comes with an all-new engine which is a single-cylinder liquid-cooled unit, but now gets a DOHC 4V/cyl head, instead of R15’s SOHC setup. However, R15 still gets VVA that enthusiasts have come to love and it is missing in the new R2. Also, we get a bi-directional quickshifter with R2, which is uni-directional in R15.
R2 weighs just 149 kg and with higher performance from the bigger engine, R2 has a higher power-to-weight ratio at 176.04 bhp / tonne, as opposed to R15’s 128.36 bhp / tonne. R2 can hold 1L extra fuel at 12L and it has slightly lower seat height at 810 mm. Yamaha has given R2 a longer 1,340 mm wheelbase and R2’s rear swingarm is finished in Silver.
Cycle Parts, Features
Tyres and brakes look like they’re the same with both R15 and R2. Both bikes get dual channel ABS and Traction Control as well. However, R2’s traction control is more sophisticated as it enables three ride modes. Both bikes get USD telescopic front forks and rear preload adjustable mono-shock. Only R2 offers preload adjustable front forks.
Speaking of adjustability, R2 has adjustable clutch levers along with adjustable footpegs as well. R2 also comes with keyless go and smart key, which R15 misses out on. Both bikes get a TFT instrument cluster, but it is standard with R2 and offered only with M version of R15. Bluetooth features along with navigation is offered with both bikes.