Yamaha WR155 R Spotted: Could This Be the 150cc Game-Changer?
Yamaha WR155 R set to challenge Hero Xpulse 200 and Kawasaki KLX 230 in India. Launch confirmed Nov 11 with trail-ready features and 155cc engine.
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Yamaha Motor India is reportedly ready to take a step into the on-off-road motorcycle market with the upcoming WR155 R that is expected to get launched later this month. The recent test sightings indicate that the company is almost done with its preparations for entering the dual-sport category in India.
Coming to the WR155 R, it has Yamaha’s 155cc liquid-cooled, 4-valve engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology which is a familiar powertrain of the R15 and MT-15 bikes. The engine is capable of producing 16.7 bhp at 10,000 rpm and 14.3 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm in the global markets and is paired with a 6-speed constant mesh gearbox.
The test unit that was seen in Bengaluru had a temporary 'KA' registration and was dressed in Yamaha’s Racing Blue colour with WR graphics resembling the version that is being sold in Southeast Asia. It has a semi double-cradle frame which can endure both rough trails and daily urban conditions.
It is expected that the WR155 R will come with a fully digital instrument cluster, an electric starter, and an 8.1-litre fuel tank. The dimensions of the motorcycle are 2,145 mm x 840 mm x 1,200 mm (L x W x H) with a wheelbase of 1,430 mm. The tall stature of the motorcycle is its ally in off-roading.
The long-travel telescopic forks at the front and monoshock at the rear are the suspension components. The bike is equipped with front 21-inch and rear 18-inch spoke wheels with dual-purpose tyres. It has strong off-road presence due to the 245 mm ground clearance and 880 mm seat height. The high-mounted exhaust, narrow rear, and compact LED lighting add to its rugged dirt-bike design.
The WR155 R, which is all set to weigh around 134 kg, will give its rider hassle-free performance and management with its fuel-injection system. The stopping power on all surfaces is assured by the disc brakes installed for both the front and the rear wheels.
When it comes to the launch dates, the WR155 R will be positioned against the Hero Xpulse 200 4V and the Kawasaki KLX 230. The latter ones have a strong hold over the lightweight adventurer category in India, but if Yamaha decides to cut the price, then the impact of its entry could be felt in the market dynamics.
According to the experts in the industry, Yamaha's decision to move into the dual-sport category would not only reshape but also make the 150cc performance class more appealing by giving a combination of reliability, everyday use, and trail ability.
