Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison

  • Published September 21, 2021
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Two potent entry-level supersports competing for ultimate glory. But which one’s the better pick?

 

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison highlights

The entry-level supersport segment just got a little more existing thanks to the launch of the new YZF-R15 Version 4.0. It’s been thoroughly revised for 2022 with better looks, equipment and a solid features list. Meanwhile, KTM is preparing the stage to introduce the 2022 RC 200 which has also witnessed a number of improvements over the current model. So which one of these bikes makes more sense on paper?

 

Engine and Performance 

Specifications

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0

2022 KTM RC 200

Engine

155cc, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve

199.5cc,liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve

Power

18.4PS @ 10,000rpm

25.8PS

Torque

14.2Nm @ 7500rpm

19.5Nm

Gearbox

6-speed + slipper clutch

6-speed
Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison details

The 2022 RC 200 has a clear advantage over the YZF-R15 Version 4.0. It’s substantially more powerful than the Yammie in every possible way. However it makes most of its power higher up the rev range so you really need to wring the throttle to get the most out of the engine.

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison overview

The R15’s VVA-equipped engine is a lot more usable thanks to its linear power delivery. It’s unlikely to heat up as much either. Moreover, the R15 could shave off crucial seconds with the help of a quickshifter which is available in the Racing Blue and ‘M’ variant.  

So while the RC 200 is the clear winner here, the R15 isn’t far behind. 

 

Hardware

Specifications

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0

2022 KTM RC 200

Frame

Deltabox

Trellis

Front suspension

USD Fork

43mm WP Apex

Rear suspension

Monoshock

Monoshock

Front brake

282mm disc

320mm disc

Rear brake

220mm disc

230mm disc

Front tyre

100/80-17

110/70 R17

Rear tyre

140/70-R17

150/70 R17
Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison gallery

Both bikes are pretty heavily equipped in their 2022 trimThe USD fork on the RC 200 is a bit more sophisticated than the R15. It also packs larger discs and a radially mounted caliper which should offer better braking performance compared to the Yammie. 

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison showcase

Let’s not forget the tyres. The RC 200’s fatter radial construction offers low sidewall flex and more contact with the ground. In comparison, the R15 only gets a rear radial tyre and a bias- ply unit up front with  a smaller contact patch, which may result in overheating. However, the difference between the two tyres would be rather small in the real world. 

 

Dimensions 

Specifications

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0

2022 KTM RC 200

Wheelbase

1325 mm

NA

Ground clearance

170mm

158mm

Fuel tank capacity

11-litres

13.7-litres

Seat height

815mm

824mm

Kerb weight

142kg

147kg (dry)
Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison glimpse

The previous-gen R15 was known for its razor-sharp handling, and we expect the same from the fourth-gen model as well. It’s light too, which could make it a lot more flickable compared to the slightly heavier RC 200. At 815mm, the seat height on the R15 is more accessible for shorter riders. 

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison snapshot

The RC 200 has always been a dream to ride on the track. It’s sharp, agile and stable at high speeds. So expect the same traits from the 2022 model. It also features a larger fuel tank which means fewer fuel stops. However, the bike’s underbelly exhaust does eat into its ground clearance -- something that’s absolutely crucial considering Indian road conditions. 

 

Features

Features

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0

2022 KTM RC 200

Digital Console

Yes

Yes

Display modes

Yes

No

Navigation

No

No

Traction Control

Yes

No

Quickshifter

Yes

No

Navigation

Yes

No

Caller ID/SMS, Email alert

Yes

No

Last Parking Location

Yes

No

Gear-position indicator

Yes

Yes

Real-time mileage

Yes

Yes

Average fuel efficiency

Yes

Yes

Distance-to-empty

Yes

Yes

Side-stand engine cut-off

Yes

Yes

LED headlamp

Yes

Yes
Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison visual

The 2022 R15 makes a strong case for itself when it comes down to its features list. It’s packed to the brim. Aside from having an LED headlight and taillight, it also gets a new digital console  with Yamaha's Y-Connect app and two display modes (Street and Track). 

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison highlights

While the RC 200’s console is equally impressive, it doesn’t quite match up to what the Yammie has to offer. 

 

Price and Verdict

Model

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0

Model

2022 KTM RC 200

R15 Metallic Red

Rs 1,67,800

Standard

Rs 2.15 lakh (expected)

R15 Dark Knight

Rs 1,68,800

    

R15 Racing Blue

Rs 1,72,800

    

R15M

Rs 1,77,800

    

R15 Monster Energy

Rs 1,79,800

    

Ex-showroom, Delhi*

Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 4.0 vs 2022 KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison details

Pricing is where the Yamaha R15 V4 makes a lot of sense. Yes, it’s a premium motorcycle, so you are paying a hefty price for the equipment. However, it’s still a LOT cheaper than the 2022 RC 200 which is expected to cost well over Rs 2 lakh. 

So if you’re fairly new to motorcycling and would like to hone your skills, the R15 makes sense, though it may require an expert hand to extract the most out of the chassis and engine. The RC 200, on the other hand, would be easier to ride and less intimidating in terms of handling.

Yamaha R15 V4 Video Review

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