Yamaha has launched the YZF-R15 V3 with a dual-channel ABS system. We find out how the bike stacks up against the KTM 200 Duke which also gets an ABS unit.
Design and Features
The styling for YZF-R15 V3 ABS is not very different from the standard model. It continues to get a full-fairing with sharp lines and an aggressive stance inspired by its elder sibling the YZF-R1.To complement its sportbike character, the R15 offers a leaned-forward riding position. It gets a pair of LED-headlamps that also incorporates LED DRLs. The instrument cluster consists of a white backlit LCD screen that displays odometer, trip meters, fuel gauge, gear-indicator and clock along with speed and tachometer. Yamaha is also offering the YZF-R15 V3 ABS in a new black colour scheme along with the red and blue colours available.
On the other hand, the KTM 200 Duke is a streetfighter and sports minimal body panels. It gets a slightly wide, upright handlebar for a comfortable riding position. The 200 Duke continues with the same styling as its 2012 counterpart, except for variations in its colour options and graphics. It sports a conventionally-lit headlamp although the turn indicators and tail lamp get LED lighting. It uses an orange-backlit instrument cluster that conveys all basic information, similar to the YZF-R15 V3. KTM offers the 200 Duke in three colour options; black, white and orange.
Engine
The R15 V3 ABS is powered by a 155cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor that produces 18.7bhp at 10,000rpm and 15Nm of torque at 8,500rpm. The engine which gets Yamaha’s VVA (variable valve actuation) technology is mated to a six-speed gearbox with slipper clutch.
Meanwhile, the 200 Duke has an upper hand in terms of engine displacement. The bike uses a 199cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that puts out 24.6bhp at 10,000rpm and 19.2Nm of torque at 8,000rpm. It is mated to a six-speed gearbox but misses out on a slipper clutch.
Cycle Parts
The KTM 200 Duke rides on 43mm, upside-down front forks and a monoshock at the rear. To keep costs in check, Yamaha has equipped the R15 V3 with telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock.
Braking duties on the Duke are done by a 300mm disc for the front wheel and a 230mm disc at the rear accompanied with a single-channel ABS unit. The Yamaha R15 V3 gets a 282mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc brake. Moreover, it comes with a dual-channel ABS system as standard.
Pricing
Yamaha has put a price tag of Rs 1.39 lakhs on the YZF-R15 V3 ABS. Meanwhile, the KTM 200 Duke ABS costs Rs 1.60 lakhs; a premium of Rs 21,000 over the Yamaha YZF-R15 ABS. (all prices, ex-showroom, Delhi).
