Yamaha has introduced the Moto GP edition of its popular 155cc sportbike, the YZF-R15 V3.0. It is a limited edition motorcycle featuring a racy livery. There are no mechanical changes, and the R15 continues to rub shoulder with Bajaj’s equivalent – the Pulsar RS200. Here is an on-paper comparison of the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0 Moto GP edition and the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 -
Design
The R15 V3.0 has always been a looker, thanks to the twin LED headlamp setup and the aerodynamic fairing which has been designed along the lines of the R6. For the Moto GP edition, the designers turned to the YZR-M1 race bike for inspiration. It gets a blue paint scheme with loud branding of its Moto GP sponsors. The Movistar logo features on the fairing and above the headlamp, the Yamalube logo is plastered below it and the Eneos logo is located at the bottom.
The Pulsar RS200 is Bajaj’s first and only fully-faired motorcycle. It also gets a very distinctive styling, with creases and edges all over. At the front are dual projector headlamps with LED DRL strips above them. While the R15 gets a fully-digital instrument console, the one in the RS200 is paired to an analogue tachometer. The display on the R15 gets an edge with a trip computer. While both get clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs, the R15 gets a more tucked-in and leaned-over riding stance as compared to the RS200. This gives the R15 an edge on the track, although the RS200 is more comfortable on the street.
Engine
Both the R15 and the RS200 get a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with a fuel injection system. Both are mated to six-speed transmissions. At the heart of the R15 is a 155cc engine, which gets two intake valve cams, one for low and mid-range rpm and another for top-end. The VVA system makes the switch at 7,400rpm, ensuring punchy torque delivery throughout the rev range. The engine delivers 19bhp and 15Nm of torque.
The Pulsar RS200 is propelled by a 199cc powertrain, with triple-spark four-valve plug technology. This engine uses three spark plugs to ignite the fuel as opposed to a single spark plug in a conventional engine, ensuring better combustion of fuel. Thanks to the bigger engine, RS200 is significantly more powerful than the R15 with an output of 24bhp and 18.6Nm of torque.
Cycle parts
Both the R15 and RS200 are built around perimeter frames, although Yamaha prefers calling its version as Deltabox. They ride on telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock which can be adjusted for preload. Both also get a disc brake at the front and rear. However, the RS200 gets bigger 300mm disc at the front and 230mm disc at the rear as compared to R15’s 282mm front disc and 220mm rear disc. The RS200 is also offered with a single-channel ABS system as an optional extra.
Both the R15 and the RS200 ride on 17-inch wheels with MRF tyres. However, the R15 is also available with an optional Metzler tyre for the rear.
Pricing
The Yamaha YZF-R15 Moto GP edition will be produced in a limited run of just 5,000 motorcycles in two phases. It can only be booked online, and commands a premium of Rs 3,000 over the standard bike, retailing at Rs 1.3 lakhs. Despite being more powerful, the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 is more affordable than the R15, with a price tag of Rs 1.26 lakhs. Mind you, opting for the ABS variant of the RS200 will set you back by Rs 1.38 lakhs.
All prices are ex-showroom.
