Thread: Yamaha YZF-R15- Ride,Handling and Braking

This is where the YZF - R15 comes into its own. It is India's only small-capacity bike to offer complete fairing protection as also a superior steel delta-box section frame. And its front forks are supplemented by a linked monocross rear suspension that provides progressive ride quality to tackle diverse conditions. The R15 has a sporty riding stance that shifts rider mass forward with low-set clip-on handlebars and rear-set rider pegs. While this will no doubt stress the novice rider's wrists and isn't ideal for daily commuting, it works to support spirited riding which is an R15 forte. This brings us to among the best bits on the R15 its soft compound tubeless MRF tyres that work like a dream. This superlative footwear presents enormous traction as fair trade for their possibly shorter life span relative to conventional tyres.

The R15 combines all its strengths in one accomplished package to offer an addictive experience. This bike can carve through corners so fast as to surprise you, its brilliant suspension and able chassis readily soaking in road ripples, the leech -like tyres safely gripping the road and stretching your margin for error wider than has ever been possible on an Indian motorcycle. While sharp, light and neutral to turn-in, it is still a forgiving motorcycle with decent ride quality. So intoxicating is the handling on the R15 that you repeatedly want to push it around your favourite corners.



A front and rear disc brake combo prove to be real-world anchors, providing perfect bite and progression while hauling down the R15 from speed in an instant. The Yamalw stopped dead from 60kph in"no more than 15 metres in a scant 1.88 seconds. While the YZF-R15's performance had us somewhat shaking our heads, that compromise has clearly helped fuel economy, which in India still remains a key parameter in a purchase decision - even in high-priced performance bikes. No, the R15 isn't a Splendor but it is frugal for a sports bike and able to deliver an admirable 43.5kpl in the city. A tall sixth gear helps it provide as much as 44.3kpl on the highway.