Yamaha R15 V3-based Moped, Sniper 155 Is Dressed To Kill

Recently launched in the Philippines, the moped is priced at an equivalent of Rs 1.73 lakh

Yamaha has launched a new moped called the Sniper 155, in the Philippines. Based on the iconic Yamaha R15 V3.0, it is priced at PHP 114,900 (about Rs 1.73 lakh) for the standard variant and PHP 120,900 (around Rs 1.82 lakh) for the R model. This makes the base variant around Rs 74,000 less expensive than the R15 in the country!

Despite being more affordable, it boasts all the benefits of the R15. At the forefront is the tried and tested 155cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology, making 17.9PS at 9500rpm and 14.4Nm at 8000rpm, about 1.4PS and 0.3Nm less than the Philippines-spec R15. The engine is linked to a six-speed gearbox with a assist-and-slipper clutch. 

The underbone frame is linked to a telescopic front fork and a rear monoshock. While both the standard and the R variant employ discs at both ends, the latter features a two-piston t caliper as opposed to a single-pot unit in the base model. Other than the slightly better braking hardware, the R model also features an exclusive Matte Titan colour scheme, Smart Key System with immobiliser and answer-back function, and a 12V DC socket. 

Other noteworthy features on both variants include a negatively lit LCD cluster, split LED headlamps and tail lamp, and a contoured single-piece seat. There is no underseat storage as it is occupied by the fuel tank, so it isn’t any more practical than the motorcycle, save for the more accessible 795mm seat, which is lower than the R15’s seat by 20mm. Besides, the base variant weighs a whole 18kg less than the faired bike, so shorter riders may find this moped easier to manoeuvre in tight parking spaces.

It is unlikely that Yamaha will introduce anything like this in our country. However, the Japanese brand plans to do one better by offering a retro motorcycle called the Yamaha FZ-X. This bike will be based on the FZ-S FI’s platform, and if you’re keen to know more about it, head here.