Yamaha YZF-R15M: Can It Compete with Honda at its Nearly 90 Million VND Price?

The starting price of YZF-R15M is 86 million VND.

Yamaha Vietnam has recently launched the 4th generation YZF-R15, which is highlighted by the introduction of the YZF-R15M version. This marks Yamaha’s second model carrying the M suffix, following the YZF-R1M.

Unlike other models that only differ in terms of decals or colors, the YZF-R15M has undergone several technological upgrades. The Yamaha YZF-R15M is priced at 86-87 million VND. So, what are the differences that justify the nearly 10 million VND price gap compared to the standard version?

Trading technology for affordability

While the YZF-R15 mainly changes its design language, the YZF-R15M is considered a higher-end version featuring numerous new technologies that have never been seen on the YZF-R15 or its competitors like the Honda CBR150R or Suzuki GSX-R150.

The Yamaha YZF-R15M is equipped with a 2-channel ABS braking system, in response to the Honda CBR150R – a model that was officially launched in Vietnam last year. The standard YZF-R15 does not have this feature.

The traction control system makes its debut on a 150 cc sportbike in Vietnam. However, this feature serves more for advertising purposes than actual usage.

For a bike with less than 20 horsepower like the YZF-R15, the occurrence of wheelies when twisting the throttle hard is unlikely, even though in the 150 cc racing segment, this technology is still not equipped.

The feature that I highly appreciate on the YZF-R15M is the quick-shift system. Although it is a one-way quick-shift, the YZF-R15M still provides a more exciting riding experience, especially on the racetrack. Yamaha Japan stated that the YZF-R15 can still be equipped with this feature as an official optional add-on.

The engine of the new generation YZF-R15 is still the 155 cc type with Variable Valve Actuation. This engine block produces a power output of 19.1 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 14.7 Nm at 8,500 rpm. The bike uses a 6-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch.

Not intended for the mass market

In the past, many users have complained about the lack of new technologies on the YZF-R15. However, the introduction of the YZF-R15M with its modern equipment, but at a price of nearly 90 million VND, also makes consumers think twice.

Speaking to Zing, Mr. Pham Van Thanh (a YZF-R15 V3 user in Ho Chi Minh City) said, “Technology is an undisputed feature when it comes to the YZF-R15M, but the price of 86 million VND is quite high, so I have to consider my options before making the purchase.”

“The price above 80 million VND will pose challenges for the YZF-R15M. Users who are interested in a 150 cc bike will feel hesitant about the price of the YZF-R15M,” shared Mr. T. (living in Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City).

When compared to its competitors, the YZF-R15M is pricier than the Honda CBR150R by about 15 million VND and more expensive than the Suzuki GSX-R150 by about 14 million VND. In the 150 cc sportbike segment, a price difference of more than 10 million VND should not be overlooked.

Of course, there will still be a specific group of customers who are willing to spend nearly 90 million VND to own the YZF-R15M. They appreciate a bike with numerous supporting technologies but are not interested in 175 cc and above models that require an A2 driver’s license.

The higher price of the M version will redirect many users’ attention to the standard version. Most people will be intrigued by the new design of this model, and the cost of adding the quickshifter will also be something that users pay attention to.

The 8 million VND price increase for the standard YZF-R15 compared to the previous generation will compel users to think twice when choosing between the YZF-R15, CBR150R, and GSX-R150 in the price range of 72-73 million VND.