Suzuki GSX-R150 vs Yamaha R15: Spec Comparison
Which of these little 150cc sportsbikes is the best one to kick-start your track riding hobby?
Yesterday, we showed you the spectacular new colours that are on offer for the 2020 Suzuki GSX-R150, and that’s left us thinking about this little sportsbike. Unfortunately, it’s unlikely to come to India anytime soon, but if it were to ever come here, it would take on the formidable Yamaha R15. So we’re going to see how the two bikes stack up on paper:
Powertrain
|
Specifications |
Suzuki GSX-R150 |
Yamaha R15 V3 |
|
Engine |
147.3cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC 4-valve engine |
155cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC 4-valve engine with VVA |
|
Power |
19.17PS @ 10,500rpm |
18.6PS @ 10,000rpm |
|
Torque |
14Nm @ 9,000rpm |
14.1Nm @ 8,500rpm |
|
Gearbox |
6-speed |
6-speed |
Despite a slight displacement advantage, the little Suzuki has a fair power advantage over the R15. However, its power (and torque) arrives 500rpm higher than the Yamaha, and the R15’s tech-laden motor also comes with Variable Valve Actuation. What this means is that the Yammie, with its slight torque advantage and better delivery, should prove to be the friendlier bike in urban conditions, while the GSX might prove quicker out on the open racetrack.
Underpinnings
|
Specifications |
Suzuki GSX-R150 |
Yamaha R15 V3 |
|
Frame |
Perimeter-type |
Deltabox perimeter type |
|
Suspension |
F: Conventional telescopic fork R: Preload-adjustable monoshock |
F: Conventional telescopic fork R: Preload-adjustable monoshock |
|
Brakes |
F: Disc R: Disc |
F: 282mm disc R: 230mm disc |
|
Tyres |
F: 90/80-17 R: 130/70-17 |
F: 100/80-17 R: 140/70-R17 |
These being sportsbikes, both of them are well-equipped to take on the twisties. They’re both held together by perimeter frames, but the Deltabox unit on the R15 seems a lot beefier than the Suzuki equivalent, and should be stiffer too. Suspension and brakes see both bikes fairly neck and neck, but the R15 ekes out an advantage in the tyre department - it gets chunkier rubber at both ends and the rear is a radial.
Dimensions & Weights
|
Specifications |
Suzuki GSX-R150 |
Yamaha R15 V3 |
|
Wheelbase |
1,300mm |
1,325mm |
|
Ground clearance |
160mm |
170mm |
|
Fuel tank capacity |
N/A |
11-litres |
|
Seat height |
785mm |
815mm |
|
Kerb weight |
131kg (dry) |
142kg |
It’s a hard fought battle in this area of the comparison: the R15 gets practicality points for its higher ground clearance, but the GSX-R is more welcoming thanks to its very manageable 785mm seat height. We only have dry weight for the Suzuki but once fully filled up, it should weigh around the same as the Yamaha.
Zaran Mody
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