Yamaha R15 V4
The Yamaha R15 V4 has a top speed of 135 km/h, produces 18.4 hp and weighs 142 kg. Motoryk rates it 8/10.
The Yamaha R15 was first introduced in 2008 as a 150cc entry-level supersport bike, bringing MotoGP-inspired design and technology to the beginner segment. The V4 (fourth generation) was launched in 2021, introducing significant upgrades including VVA (Variable Valve Actuation), traction control, a quickshifter, and an updated aerodynamic fairing with winglets inspired by the YZF-R1. It became highly regarded in Asian markets as one of the most technically advanced 150cc motorcycles available, setting a benchmark in its class.
18.4 hp
Power
14.2 Nm
Torque
142 kg
Weight
135 km/h
Top Speed
2.8 L/100km or approximately 35 km/L (typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
🔧 Service Schedule & Parts
Affiliate · we may earn| Service item | Every | Typical cost | Parts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🛢️ Engine oil + oil filter | 6,000 km / 3,500 mi or 6 mo | $40-80 | 🛢️ Buy → ⚙️ Buy → |
| 🌬️ Air filter | 12,000 km / 7,500 mi | — | 🌬️ Buy → |
| ⚡ Spark plugs | 12,000 km / 7,500 mi | — | ⚡ Buy → |
| 🔧 Valve clearance check | 24,000 km / 15,000 mi | $200-400 | |
| 🔗 Chain & sprockets | 25000-40000 km (replace) | $150-300 | 🔗 Buy → |
| 🛑 Brake pads | 15000-30000 km | $30-60 | 🛑 Buy → |
| 💧 Brake fluid | 24,000 km / 15,000 mi or 2 yr | — | |
| 🧊 Coolant | 24,000 km / 15,000 mi | — | |
| 🛞 Tires | 10000-20000 km | $200-400 | 🛞 Buy → |
| 🔩 Major service | 24,000 km / 15,000 mi | $300-600 |
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
VVA Tech Advantage
The R15 V4 features Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), a system borrowed from superbikes that switches cam profiles at 7,400 RPM for strong low-end torque and high-end power. This makes it uniquely versatile for both city commuting and track-style riding.
Strong Resale Value
Yamaha R15 models consistently retain 75-85% of their value after the first year due to the brand's reliability reputation and high demand in the used market. Keeping service records and original parts significantly boosts resale price.
Watch the Radiator
Some R15 V4 owners report occasional overheating in heavy stop-and-go traffic, as the small radiator can struggle in extreme heat conditions. Ensuring the coolant is topped up and the radiator fins are clean is a key maintenance watch point.
Used Buyer Review
"The sharpest 155cc you can buy used, full stop."
$2,800-$4,200 usedThe R15 V4 is genuinely impressive for what it costs used, and I say that as someone who's thrown a leg over everything from CBR600s to Panigales. The VVA engine is legitimately clever — that variable valve system makes it tractable at low revs without killing top-end excitement. Slipper clutch, USD forks, traction control on a 155cc bike? Yamaha weren't messing around. Ergonomics are aggressive though, and I mean properly aggressive. Taller riders above 5'10" will be folded like origami on longer runs. When buying used, inspect the fairings obsessively — these attract new riders who drop them in car parks more than they'd admit. Check the VVA solenoid is functioning smoothly across the rev range; a hesitation around 7,500rpm is the telltale sign of trouble. Service history matters here because neglected oil changes kill the top end early. Most examples you'll find have been commuter-thrashed, so look for chain wear and front fork seal leaks religiously.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Yamaha R15 V4 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALRev past 7500rpm, listen for hesitation or clunking noise
Inspect under engine for pink staining or low coolant level
Check chain slack, look for hooked sprocket teeth
Check battery voltage at idle, should read above 13.5V
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Generally reliable, maintenance history is everything
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Yamaha R15 V4
Tvs Apache Rr 310
Honda Cbr250rr
Cfmoto 250sr
Cfmoto 450sr
Yamaha R15 V3
Compare Yamaha R15 V4 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Yamaha R15 V4 vs Tvs Apache Rr 310
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha R15 V4 vs Honda Cbr250rr
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha R15 V4 vs Cfmoto 250sr
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha R15 V4 vs Cfmoto 450sr
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha R15 V4 vs Yamaha R15 V3
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Yamaha R15 V4? +
VVA actuator failure causing rough mid-range power: Rev past 7500rpm, listen for hesitation or clunking noise (moderate) | Coolant leaks from water pump seal: Inspect under engine for pink staining or low coolant level (moderate) | Chain stretch and sprocket wear from poor maintenance: Check chain slack, look for hooked sprocket teeth (minor)
Is the Yamaha R15 V4 a good motorcycle? +
The sharpest 155cc you can buy used, full stop. Rating: 8.0/10. Best for: Shorter riders wanting track-day-ready commuter. Avoid if: You prioritize comfort over outright performance.
What is the horsepower of the Yamaha R15 V4? +
The Yamaha R15 V4 produces 18.4 hp @ 10,000 rpm, with 14.2 Nm @ 7,500 rpm of torque. Top speed: 135 km/h.
Is the Yamaha R15 V4 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Yamaha R15 V4 is a reasonable choice for new riders (18.4 hp is manageable), weighing 142 kg. Shorter riders wanting track-day-ready commuter
Is the Yamaha R15 V4 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Yamaha R15 V4, notably: Stator failure causing charging issues on older units (Check battery voltage at idle, should read above 13.5V). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Yamaha R15 V4 good for daily use? +
Shorter riders wanting track-day-ready commuter Fuel: 2.8 L/100km or approximately 35 km/L (typical real-world average).
How fast is the Yamaha R15 V4? +
The Yamaha R15 V4 reaches a top speed of 135 km/h, producing 18.4 hp at 142 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Yamaha R15 V4? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Yamaha R15 V4, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/yamaha/r15-v4/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
