Yamaha FZ S vs. R15 V4: Which One Comes Out on Top?

Yamaha is one of the most popular motorcycle manufacturers in the world, producing a wide range of bikes that cater to different segments of the market. Two of their most popular models are the Yamaha FZ S and the Yamaha R15 V4. Both bikes have their own unique features and characteristics, making it difficult to choose between the two. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at both bikes and compare them in different aspects to determine which one comes out on top.

Design and Styling

The Yamaha FZ S and R15 V4 both have unique designs and styling that set them apart from each other. The FZ S has a muscular look, with a beefy fuel tank and chunky bodywork that gives it a rugged appearance. On the other hand, the R15 V4 has a sleek and aerodynamic design that is inspired by Yamaha’s MotoGP race bikes. It has sharp lines and a sporty profile, which make it look fast even when it’s standing still. Overall, both bikes are well-designed and visually appealing, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Engine and Performance

The Yamaha FZ S is powered by a 149cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 12.4 bhp of power and 13.6 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox and has a top speed of around 112 km/h. On the other hand, the Yamaha R15 V4 is equipped with a 155cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 18.6 bhp of power and 14.1 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and has a top speed of around 144 km/h. In terms of performance, the R15 V4 is clearly the winner, with more power, torque, and a higher top speed.

Riding Experience

The Yamaha FZ S is designed for comfortable and relaxed riding, with an upright riding position and a wide, comfortable seat. It has a soft suspension setup that is tuned for comfort and is suitable for city riding and short trips. On the other hand, the Yamaha R15 V4 has a more aggressive riding position, with rear-set footpegs and a low clip-on handlebar that puts the rider in a more aerodynamic position. It has a stiff suspension setup that is tuned for handling and is suitable for aggressive riding and track use. The riding experience of both bikes is quite different, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use.

Comfort and Convenience

The Yamaha FZ S comes with a range of comfort and convenience features that make it suitable for daily use. It has a comfortable seat, a digital instrument cluster, and a USB charging port for mobile devices. It also has a large fuel tank that provides a long riding range and a single-piece grab rail that makes it easy to carry a pillion. The Yamaha R15 V4, on the other hand, is designed for performance and does not have many comfort and convenience features. It has a small fuel tank, no grab rail, and no USB charging port. The seat is also narrow and not very comfortable for long rides.

Safety Features

Both the Yamaha FZ S and R15 V4 come with a range of safety features that make them suitable for everyday use. They both have a front and rear disc brake setup with dual-channel ABS, which provides excellent stopping power and prevents the wheels from locking up during sudden braking. They also have LED lighting all around, which makes them more visible to other road users, especially in low-light conditions. Overall, both bikes are well-equipped in terms of safety features, which is an important consideration when choosing a motorcycle.

Pricing and Value for Money

The Yamaha FZ S price at around $1,300, making it an affordable and value-for-money motorcycle. It offers good performance, comfort, and convenience features, making it suitable for daily use and short trips. The Yamaha R15 V4 price at around $2,100, which is significantly higher than the FZ S. However, it offers superior performance, handling, and styling, which make it suitable for performance enthusiasts and track riders. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to budget and intended use.

Maintenance and Servicing

Yamaha has a wide network of authorized service centers across the country, which makes it easy to get the FZ S and R15 V4 serviced and maintained. Both bikes come with a standard warranty of 2 years or 24,000 km, whichever comes first. Yamaha also offers extended warranty options, which provide additional coverage for the engine and other critical components. Overall, Yamaha motorcycles are known for their reliability and low maintenance costs, which makes them a popular choice among motorcycle enthusiasts.

Pros and Cons of FZ S

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Comfortable riding position
• Good fuel efficiency
• Large fuel tank
• Dual-channel ABS

Cons:

• Less powerful engine
• Limited performance
• No rear-set footpegs

Pros and Cons of R15 V4

Pros:

• Superior performance
• Sporty styling
• Stiff suspension setup
• Dual-channel ABS
• LED lighting

Cons:

• Expensive price
• Uncomfortable seat
• No grab rail
• Narrow fuel tank

Comparison Table

Conclusion

Choosing between the Yamaha FZ S and Yamaha R15 V4 ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you’re looking for an affordable and comfortable motorcycle for daily use and short trips, the FZ S is a great choice. It offers good performance, comfort, and convenience features, making it a practical and value-for-money motorcycle.

On the other hand, if you’re a performance enthusiast or a track rider, the R15 V4 is the better option. It offers superior performance, handling, and styling, which make it suitable for more aggressive riding styles. However, it comes at a significantly higher price point, which may not be feasible for everyone.

Ultimately, both the Yamaha FZ S and R15 V4 are great motorcycles in their own right, and choosing between them depends on individual preferences and requirements.