Yamaha might launch a 150 cc in 2008

Yamaha might launch a 150 cc in 2008..!! And it might be a model which is available in Indonesia..!!

According to Economic Times, Yamaha Motors has finally made comments on it's plans of launching a 150 C.C Motorcycle. The new 150 C.C Yamaha would probably be showcased in the upcoming Auto Expo 2008 in New Delhi and launched by mid 2008.

According to the Economic Times the 150 C.C engine would have 4 valves and should produce around 14 bhp. Also the bike is expected to have sporty looks similar in line of the Yamaha R1.

The above specification might just be similar to a Yamaha product that has been recently launched in Indonesia called the V-ixion. The Yamaha V-ixion is a 150 C.C motorycle. My hunch is that the 150 C.C model planned for India might be based on the same V-ixion model available in Indonesia.

Technical Specification of the 150 C.C Yamaha Vixion...


ENGINE

• 149.7 C.C, 4 Stroke


• Liquid Cooled


• Single Cylinder


• 4 Valves



• Power: 11.10 kw (14.88 HP or 15.09 PS) / 8,500 rpm


• Torque: 13.10 nm (1.34 Kgf.m)/ 7,500 rpm


• Compression Ratio: 10.4 : 1

GEARS

• 5 SPEED

DIMENSIONS

• Wheelbase 1,282 mm


• Weight 114 Kg

CHASIS/SUSPENSION

• Delta Frame


• Rear: Monoshock


• Front: Telescopic Shock Absorbers

BRAKES

• Front: 245 MM Single Disc Brake


• Rear: 130 MM Drum Brake

TYRES

• Front: 2.75 – 17


• Rear: 90/90 – 17




• Kick & Electric Starter


• Tank Capacity: 12 Ltr

"The legendary Yamaha RX100 used to develop its maximum power at 8500 rpm and its Maximum Torque at 7500 rpm which is exactly the same rpm at which the V-ixion develops its Maximum Power and Torque resectively..!!"

So far so good but the pricing seems to be a bit high to what Indians are used to in this 150 C.C segment. Economic times have quoted a figure of Rs 80,000-90,000 for this new 150 C.C Yamaha. Even the price of the V-ixion is Rp. 18,900,000 In Indonesian currency. Which is about Rs. 85,000 (In Indian Currency)..!!

So we can see that so far there is a stong suggestion that India might get the V-ixion as its 150 C.C offering from Yamaha.

From the specs of the V-ixion it is obvious that it is inclined more towards performance. Engines with 4 valves per cylinder generally of rev happy nature and produce maximum power at a high RPM range compared the usual 2 valves per cylinder engines. The liquid-cooled engine would help to keep the engine cool at high temperatures. The Monoshock and the delta frame would just go to enhance the sporty handling of the motorcycle.

Guess what..?? The legendary Yamaha RX100 used to develop its maximum power at 8500 rpm and its Maximum Torque at 7500 rpm; which is exactly the same rpm at which the V-ixion develops its Maximum Power and Torque resectively..!! Also with just 114 Kg kerb weight and with around 15.09 PS of power, the V-ixion has the potential of being the performance king among the 150 C.C's and might also pose some serious questions at the Pulsar 180.

But if Yamaha does really have the V-ixion in its mind for India, then I would like to see a few changes in it.

• Wider Rear Tyre instead of its 90/90 rear


• A bit more muscular styling


• Maybe a fairing with Digital Speedometers


• And yes, a lesser price

Till now virtually every bike enthusiast in the country has been complaning on why Yamaha does not have any 150 C.C in its Indian arsenal. Now would you guys be interested in the V-ixion if Yamaha decides to bring it in India..??