2012 Yamaha YZF-R15

Look closer and finer changes are apparent; the still compact R15 looking longer than its predecessor, as its wheelbase has extended 55mm (nearly 2 inches), thanks to a new alloy swingarm, rare for this class of motorcycle. A larger 130/70 section radial rear tire completes the muscular looking rear. The front disc brake enjoys a larger carrier, while the rear disc is now slightly bigger at 220mm.


The ECU has modified tuning for improved throttle response, and the throttle operating cam is shaped for more linear response. Yamaha has sadly failed to add power to the new model, and enthusiasts are sure to feel let down when noticing the unchanged 16.8 hp at 8500 rpm peak power output. What’s more, the V2.0 tips the scales at 5kg (11 lbs) more than the original R15. It now claims a 300-pound curb weight. What’s immediately apparent is how the power deliver has improved. Unlike earlier R15’s that had to be wound up to really get going, the V2.0 is clearly more responsive, with a healthier punch in the bottom and mid-range of its powerband. The bike revs cleanly to its 10,000-rpm limiter. This more user-friendly nature vastly improves the R15’s public road abilities, which was a sore point on the earlier motorcycle. As speeds increase, it’s clear that fears of any significant drop in performance are unfounded. Pleasantly, our tests confirm the new Yamaha as faster, the V2.0 achieving 100 kph (62.5 mph) from standstill half a second quicker than managed by us on the older motorcycle, in 14.14 seconds.