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  • Yamaha R15 V3, MT15, FZ25, FZ S FI – Gets Online Sales Website

    Yamaha India has announced the launch of a new website today – to boost online sales of their motorcycles
    Yamaha India now has dedicated online sales channel, Virtual Store. The new website, an end-to-end online buying platform covers 300+ dealerships across the country. For now, the business module has been started in Chennai, and will go onto cover 300 dealerships by 2020 end. With a user friendly website with online sales facility, Yamaha takes another step in its efforts to build on much need customer experiences.
    Yamaha Virtual Store online buying platform

    With Covid-19 pandemic related lockdown, and general awareness influencing decisions, it’s not difficult to understand why customers would prefer staying home rather than visiting a store. To encourage buying in a convenient manner, the one stop Yamaha Virtual Store will cater to a remote buying experience starting from product display and ending with a safe payment gateway.
    On this newly launched website, you can buy any of these five motorcycles – R15 V3, MT 15, FZ 25, FZ FI and FZS FI. Other motorcycles and scooters of Yamaha India are not yet listed on this newly launched website.

    Yamaha Virtual Store website facilitates 360 degree view of two wheelers, and specification comparison between products. Prospects may refer to the ‘Buyers Guide’ option to find necessary bike details. Alongside online sales activity, Yamaha dealerships will provide support in carrying out contactless delivery.
    Communication tools like Whatsapp are being used as the days of customers stepping in for a quick chat are now thing of the past. Customers can opt for doorstep service for purchase related enquiries depending on personal requirements.

    Current market behaviour has prompted decision makers to gravitate towards online activity and increased digitalisation to harness its far reaching potential. With sales being a topmost priority, leveraging online reach could soon be a foremost pattern in generating leads.
    Yamaha India July 2020 sales
    As manufacturers scramble to punch sales numbers, the going has been anything but easy. FADA reports Yamaha India retails sales in July 2020 at 32,819 units, down 36.94 percent. Sales fell by 19,224 units from 52,043 units retailed in July 2019. Top 4 bike manufacturers are heavyweights will monthly sales ranging from 2 – 5 lakh units. Yamaha finds itself behind the top peleton, competing closely in a triad completed by Suzuki and Royal Enfield in terms of sales volume.
    Motofumi Shitara, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of companies said, “Digital is future, and our new website with VIRTUAL STORE is ready to offer an enhanced buying experience and personalized customer services (One to one service) to the two-wheeler customers in India. Yamaha’s philosophy to offer excitement that goes beyond the customer expectations will unfold a new chapter with the new Yamaha website as we accelerate the digital transformation of Yamaha’s retail operations through a safe, reliable and engaging online portal. Bringing more innovation to the concept, in future our customers will also be able to purchase apparels & accessories on the same platform thus providing a ready solution with enhanced buying experience. Our existing after sales activities like extended warranty offers and roadside assistance will be an added advantage to the customers.” More

  • BS6 Yamaha FZ25 in Blue colour detailed – Exhaust note video

    Deliveries of the all new Yamaha FZ25 has started in select cities
    A popular and affordable option in 250 cc segment, Yamaha FZ 25 and FZS 25 BS6 variants were launched in July. The FZ 25 twins pack in several design enhancements and new features. While both bikes may appear identical at first glance, a closer inspection reveals some additional features on FZS 25 such as front visor, brush guard and golden alloy wheels.

    Yamaha FZ 25 and FZS 25 have started arriving at dealerships and test rides are available. Here’s a walkaround video posted by YouTube channel ‘Burn Piston’ that details the various changes and features of FZ 25. We also get to hear the bike’s exhaust note, which turns out to be quite satisfying to the ears.
    Key upgrades
    One of the key upgrades in Yamaha FZ 25 and FZS 25 BS6 variants is the new Class D bi-functional LED headlamp and LED DRL. The LED headlamp is the same one as can be seen on Yamaha MT-15. With its compact profile, the headlamp exudes sharp, aggressive looks. It is one of the key components that give the FZ 25 twins their dominating character. Other prominent features include sculpted fuel tank, sinewy tank shrouds, split seat design with sleek grabrails, under cowl, blacked out components, sharp muffler cover and side stand engine cut-off switch.

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    Colour options are different for the twins, with FZ 25 getting Metallic Black and Racing Blue. The sportier FZS 25 is available in Dark Matt Blue, White Vermillion and Patina Green colour options.
    Front and rear indicators are halogen units, which could be a disappointment for customers looking for a full-LED setup. Moreover, the indicators are fitted in the conventional style, which are bound to droop overtime. Such things don’t go well with the hugely enticing overall profile of FZ 25 twins. The negative LCD instrument cluster looks basic, but it displays a lot of information such as speedometer, RPM, trip meter, fuel gauge, neutral light and ABS light.
    Suitable for touring
    Yamaha FZ 25 twins qualify for long distance journeys, as they come with comfortable seats, easy riding stance, sturdy suspension, dual-channel ABS and a capable engine. The 249 cc SOHC air cooled engine generates max power of 20.8 ps at 8000 rpm and max torque of 20.1 Nm at 6000 rpm. The gearbox is a 5-speed constant mesh unit. The earlier BS4 engine had almost identical power and torque of 20.9hp / 20Nm.
    One of the key improvements in the BS6 engine is that it has been fine-tuned to suit Indian conditions. Users can expect optimal performance even in extreme summer heat, as the engine is equipped with a 4-row core oil cooler.
    Yamaha FZ 25 and FZS 25 BS6 variants are priced at Rs 1.52 lakh and Rs 1.57 lakh, respectively (ex-sh). These bikes go up against rivals such as Bajaj Dominar 250, Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF250, Husqvarna twins and KTM 250 Duke. More

  • Yamaha BS6 FZ 25, FZS 25 Arrive in Showroom – Video Walkaround

    Launched in July, BS6 compliant Yamaha FZ 25 and FZS 25 come with design improvements and new features
    These quarter litre bikes were unveiled earlier this year in February. They would have made it to showrooms much earlier, but the plans got delayed due to Covid-19 lockdown. Both bikes are almost identical with the exception of some additional features available with FZS 25.

    BS6 Yamaha FZ 25 and FZS 25 are equipped with a new Class D bi-functional LED headlamp and LED DRL. The headlamp has a compact, snazzy design and ensures improved visibility. Other key features include multi-function negative LCD instrument cluster, side stand engine cut-off switch, sleek fuel tank, muscular tank shrouds, split step-up style seat, blacked out components, sharp muffler cover and under cowl.
    FZS 25 gets additional features such as golden alloy wheels, brush guard, and front visor. FZ 25 is available in Metallic Black and Racing Blue whereas FZS 25 comes in Patina Green, White-Vermillion and Dark Matt Blue colour options. Watch the detailed walkaround video below, credit to MRD Vlogs.

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    Powering the FZ twins is a 249 cc SOHC air cooled engine that delivers 20.8 PS of max power at 8000 rpm and 20.1 Nm of max torque at 6000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh transmission. Power and torque output of BS4 model was almost identical at 20.9hp / 20Nm. The BS6 engine has been fine-tuned to deliver optimal performance in Indian conditions. One key feature is the 4-row core oil cooler that can keep the engine cool even in the soaring summer heat.
    FZ 25 and FZS 25 have a lightweight body construction, with a kerb weight of 153 kg and 154 kg, respectively. This offers multiple benefits such as easy manoeuvrability, improved fuel efficiency and higher power-to-weight ratio.
    Yamaha FZ 250 twins utilize a diamond frame chassis suspended on telescopic front forks and 7-step adjustable monocross suspension at the rear. The adjustable rear suspension allows users to explore varied terrains in an effortless manner. Braking system comprises 282 mm front and 220 mm rear disc brake integrated with a dual channel ABS system.
    FZ 25 and FZS 25 price
    BS6 FZ 25 is priced at Rs 1.52 lakh, which is Rs 15k more than the BS4 model. The FZS variant retails at Rs 1.57 lakh. Even with the price hike, FZ 25 and FZS 25 continue to be the most affordable in 250 cc category. The nearest rival in terms of pricing is Bajaj Dominar 250, which retails at Rs 1.60 lakh.
    Other rivals include Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF250, priced at Rs 1.65 lakh and Rs 1.76 lakh, respectively. Further up, there’s the Husqvarna twins priced at Rs 1.85 lakh. Costliest bike in the quarter litre segment is KTM 250 Duke, priced at Rs 2.05 lakh. All prices are ex-sh. More

  • 2020 Yamaha R15 BS6 Prices Increased Again – New Starting Price Rs 1.49 L

    After this price hike, the BS6 Yamaha YZF-R15 faired sportsbike carries a starting price of Rs 1.49 lakh
    Yamaha Motor India introduced its faired single-cylinder sports motorcycle, YZF-R15 back in 2008. This was followed by a V2.0 version in 2011 and finally, the current-gen V3.0. The Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer updated the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0 (or simply, R15 V3) to BS6 emission norms towards the end of last year. Ex-showroom prices started at Rs 1.46 lakh, roughly Rs 4,000 more than its BS4 counterpart.

    Now, Yamaha Motor India has announced a price hike (second revision in BS6 era) of Rs 2,100 for its popular sports offering. This effectively brings the ex-showroom (Delhi) starting price to Rs 1.49 lakh. In other words, the motorcycle has become dearer by almost 7,000 over its initial BS4 format.
    There are no cosmetic or mechanical changes associated with this price revision. Yet it continues to be one of the best choices in India’s single-cylinder sports motorcycle category. The fact stays true to its naked sports avatar, MT-15 as well. Prices for the BS6 Yamaha MT-15 start at almost Rs 1.40 lakh ex-showroom.

    The 2020MY Yamaha YZF-R15 is offered in three colour choices: Racing Blue, Thunder Grey (silver + black) and Dark Knight (full black). Pricing slightly varies with colour. It primarily rivals the KTM RC125 and Suzuki Gixxer SF while being an affordable yet desirable alternative to higher products such as the Bajaj Pulsar RS200, KTM RC200, Hero Xtreme 200S, etc. On the other hand, the naked sports Yamaha MT-15 faces tougher competition in the sports commuter segment.
    Key Highlights
    Notable highlights include Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), LED dual headlamps, digital instrument console (with gear position, shift indicator, VVA indicator, fuel consumption, etc.), slipper clutch, dual-channel ABS, aluminium swingarm and more. It is built over Yamaha’s proven Deltabox chassis.
    Unlike its ASEAN counterparts, suspension duties are carried out by a pair of conventional telescopic forks at the front. Shod with 100/80R17 and 140/70R17 tubeless tyres at the front and rear (radial), respectively, the Yamaha YZF-R15 promises good handling for its segment and pricing. Combined with dual-channel ABS, the 282mm front and 220mm rear discs offer adequate braking for the motorcycle’s performance figures. Kerb weight stands at 142kg and fuel tank capacity is capped at the usual 11-litre mark.
    Engine & Specs
    Powering the 2020MY Yamaha YZF-R15 is a BS6-compliant 155cc liquid-cooled SOHC single-cylinder engine. It churns out 18.34bhp @ 10,000rpm and 14.1Nm @ 8,500rpm while mated to a 6-speed transmission. More

  • Yamaha YZF-R25M in the works to rival Kawasaki Ninja 25R?

    Unlike the regular inline-twin Yamaha YZF-R25, the new YZF-R25M is a quarter-litre inline-four motorcycle aimed at track performance
    Japanese motorcycle manufacturer Kawasaki has already launched the quarter-litre inline-four Ninja ZX-25R in Indonesia. Prices start at IDR 96 million or roughly INR 5 lakh. A higher ‘Special Edition’ variant is also available at IDR 112.9 million or almost INR 5.90 lakh. Prices mentioned here are ex-showroom.

    With its debut, Kawasaki has reintroduced the forgotten segment of low-capacity multi-cylinders sportsbikes meant for those who love to ride at machine-limit. Chances of it coming to our market are low since Kawasaki India is concentrating on localising its existing portfolio. Alongside the new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R, the company unveiled its track-only sibling, Racer Custom as well as an exclusive carbon fibre package dubbed ‘Race Spec’. The kit almost makes it look like the all-out Ninja ZX-25R Racer Custom.
    Yamaha YZF-R25M – Overview
    For a brief period, this modern-day niche class of 250cc i4 faired motorcycles was solely represented by the ‘baby 10R’. However, it seems that Yamaha Motor wishes to join the party with its all-new YZF-R25M (rumoured name). It is worth mentioning that the regular Indonesian-spec YZF-R25 is a ~250cc inline-twin (not to be confused with a parallel twin). Certain sources also claim that Honda Motorcycle is working on the CBR250RR-R. Again, the existing CBR250RR packs two cylinders less.

    Yamaha YZF-R25M (speculative render)
    At the moment, minimal details are known about Yamaha’s entry-level four-cylinder sportsbike. It would most likely hit Indonesia first before being filtered down to other potential markets across Asia and maybe Europe. Usually, Yamaha’s sports or super sports models with an ‘M’ tag are primarily focused on racetrack performance. Inspiration comes from the brand’s MotoGP division that employs the multi-time championship-winning race bike, Yamaha YZR-M1.
    To date, there has not been an official statement regarding its development, but many remain certain that an R25M is happening. Yamaha’s YZF-R25M could be a result of the overwhelming response received by Kawasaki for its latest quarter-litre four-cylinder product.
    Possible Specifications

    Kawasaki has clearly set a high benchmark with the ZX-25R. It makes 49bhp @ 15,500rpm and 22.9Nm @ 14,400rpm from a 249.8cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline-four motor. This is mated to a 6-speed transmission, accompanied by an ‘assist & slipper clutch’ and quickshifter. Hence, one can expect the upcoming YZF-R25M (and CBR250RR-R) to churn out more than 45bhp while screaming in mid-five-digit RPMs.
    On the other hand, the latest Yamaha YZF-R25 makes 35.2bhp @ 12,000pm and 23.6Nm @ 10,000rpm from its 250cc liquid-cooled DOHC twin-cylinder engine. Transmission duties are carried out by a ‘Return Shift’ 6-speed unit.
    Source More

  • 2020 Yamaha FZ 25, FZS 25 BS6 Price List – New Features

    The BS6-spec Yamaha FZ 25 and FZS 25 were unveiled on February and now the prices have been announced
    After a long wait, Yamaha has finally introduced the BS6 versions of the FZ 25 and FZS 25 quarter liter duo. The 2020 Yamaha FZ 25 BS6 is priced at INR 1.52 lakh while the updated FZS 25 retails at INR 1.57 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi). That’s nearly INR 16,000 more expensive than the respective BS4 counterparts which were fuel injected to boot with.
    What’s new?

    In addition to the BS6 emission related upgrades, the Yamaha street fighter twins incorporate few more design updates as well. The immediately noticeable change is the bi-functional LED headlamp with an arc-shaped DRL. The bikini fairing around the headlamp has always been revised too. The FZS-25, as usual, features a slightly taller windshield and knuckle guards compared to the regular FZ-25.

    The twins also feature revised fuel tank extensions and side panels in addition to new bash plate. Of course, Yamaha has taken this opportunity to introduce new colour options. While the 2020 Yamaha FZ 25 BS6 is available in Metallic Black and Racing Blue colour schemes, the FZS 25 BS6 can be had in White Vermillion, Patina Green and Dark Matte Blue options (the last two options come with contrast golden alloy wheels).
    In terms of equipment, the revised 250 cc motorcycles offer an updated negative LCD instrument display and side stand engine cut-off switch.
    Specifications
    As expected, emission upgrades to the 249 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine has resulted in marginal drop of performance outputs but we don’t expect any noticeable difference in real world performance. The motor now delivers 20.8 hp and 20.1 Nm of torque (0.1 hp and 0.1 Nm lower than BS4 version). Transmission continues to be a 5-speed unit.

    The changes have resulted in a 1 kg increase in kerb weight which now stands at 153 kg. The naked bikes employ regular telescopic front forks and rear monoshock. The front (282 mm) and rear (220 mm) disc brakes are governed by dual-channel ABS. The front and rear tyres measure 100/80-17 and 140/70-17 respectively.
    The 250 cc street fighter segment in India is populated by the Suzuki Gixxer 250 in the same price bracket as the FZ twins and the KTM Duke 250 at the premium end. With the price announcement, Yamaha Motor India seems to have completed its BS6 upgrade campaign. Moving forward, the focus will be on automatic scooters and motorcycle with displacement of 150 cc and above. More

  • Yamaha MT-15 limited edition debuts at 2020 Bangkok Motor Show

    The new teal blue and fluorescent yellow combination gives the compact displacement street fighter a sportier appeal
    The Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS), the only major automotive show to take place in the world amidst the global pandemic, has on display several limited editions and model year updates. We recently brought you the news about 2021 Kawasaki Ninja 400 getting new liveries, and now its time for the Yamaha MT-15 Limited Edition.

    Yamaha Thailand has swathed its popular compact displacement street fighter with an interesting teal blue (or green if you will) paint job. The neon yellow finish for the wheels has dialled up the motorcycle’s sporty quotient by a few notches. Apart from the new paint scheme, there are no changes or additions to the Yamaha MT-15 Limited Edition model. The company did not reveal how many units of this edition it is planning to sell in Thailand.
    The Yamaha MT-15 Limited Edition appears to be a marketing push during Bangkok Motor Show which usually witnesses significant number of on-the-spot bookings. So, we don’t expect this edition to be introduced in other markets now. However, if this colour combination garners enough attention internationally, the Japanese two wheeler giant may considering bringing it to other markets as well.

    2020 Yamaha MT 15 Limited Edition
    Specs
    The Thai-spec Yamaha MT-15 is slightly different from the version available in India. While we are offered cost effective regular telescopic forks, the Thai edition sports sturdy upside-down forks with anodized gold finish. Both versions share their platform with the fully faired YZF-R15 V3.0.
    The 155 cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine produces 19 hp and 14.7 Nm of torque. A slipper clutch pairs the motor with a 6-speed transmission. At a kerb weight of 133 kg, the compact MT-15 features one of the highest power-to-weight ratios in its segment.
    Prices

    2020 Yamaha MT 15 Limited Edition
    The Yamaha MT-15 Limited Edition is priced at TBT 98,500 (around INR 2.32 lakh). In India the naked motorcycle is priced at INR 1.39 lakh (ex-showroom). It is available in three color options – black, blue and white with red wheels.
    In our market, the Yamaha MT-15 competes with the KTM Duke 125 in addition to the whole array of 150 cc machines. Big bike styling, heady power output and sporty character are its strong selling points.
    Yamaha recently updated its entire portfolio to BS6 emission standards. This included making fuel injection system standard across its scooter range. The company is currently focusing only on automatic scooters and motorcycles from 150 cc and above. More

  • Yamaha MT15 owner installs USD forks from KTM Duke 390 at Rs 10k

    Image – Abhinav Bhatt
    The BS4 Yamaha MT15’s USD forks-swap required only a few extra brackets to hold the headlamp assembly

    Yamaha Motor India introduced the MT15 back in March 2019. Earlier this year, the naked-sports or streetfighter motorcycle was updated to BS6 emission norms alongside subtle additions. It is essentially a naked version of the Yamaha YZF-R15 sportsbike. Prices currently start at roughly Rs 1.39 lakh ex-showroom.
    With no direct rivals but several sports-commuter alternatives, the Yamaha MT15 boasts of class-leading equipment such as Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), Assist & Slipper Clutch (ASC), deltabox frame, etc. Indian motorcycle enthusiasts were a bit disappointed at the fact that it (and the R15) lacked USD forks even when the lesser KTM 125 Duke sported them. The Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer might have omitted the feature to cut costs.
    Abhinav Bhatt (@abhinavbhatt19 on Instagram) has shared a suspension swap done on his friend Vetrivel’s BS4 Yamaha MT15, using a pair of 43mm ‘WP’ USD forks (including upper and lower triple-trees) sourced from a second-gen KTM Duke 390. The entire conversion project (dubbed ‘Project 15’) was done at home at a cost of roughly Rs 10,000. Abhinav states that the modification comes with significant advantages and a few non-dealbreaker disadvantages.

    Image – Abhinav Bhatt
    Starting with the merits, the motorcycle offers a noticeable bump in comfort while being more ‘stable and predictable’ at high speeds and corners. Furthermore, road undulations are better absorbed than on stock setup. On the downside, the front-end became heavier by just over 1kg (hardly noticeable). There is a slight increase in turning radius as well.
    Since the components were sourced from a different manufacturer, a minor alteration was done to fit the headlamp assembly. For this, Vetrivel only had to fabricate three extra brackets. Although the MT15 wears the 390 Duke’s Bybre axial calliper, wheel and rotor remain stock. Most importantly, the motorcycle looks really good from the front quarter.

    The 2020MY Yamaha MT15 BS6 is powered by a 155cc liquid-cooled SOHC single-cylinder engine making 18.25bhp @ 10,000rpm and 13.9Nm @ 8,500rpm. This is mated to a 6-speed transmission. The previous Yamaha MT15 BS4 (as the example shown) churned out a marginally better 19.03bhp and 14.7Nm at similar rev ranges.
    Changes in the BS6 version are limited to a new colour choice (Ice Fluo Vermillion or dual-tone white + red), engine side-stand cut-off and a 140mm-section radial rear tyre. It gets the same single-channel ABS unit, coupled to a 282mm front disc brake (220mm at back). The motorcycle rides on 100/80R17 and 140/70R17 tubeless tyres. More