Built around Yamaha's sport motorcycle platform, the 2017 Yamaha YZF R15 relies on a 149.8 cc (9.1 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 22.8 HP (16.6 kW) at 8,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 15 Nm (11.1 lb-ft) at 7,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 152.2 HP per liter and a 1,000 rpm working window between peak torque (7,500 rpm) and peak power (8,500 rpm), the engine character is placing it firmly in high-revving supersport territory where top-end breathing dominates.
On the scales, the YZF R15 measures 136 kg (300 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.17 HP/kg (5.96 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 800 mm (31.5 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,345 mm (53 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 12-liter (3.2 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Yamaha archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 2017 to 2021, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
152.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.17 HP/kg (5.96 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,500–8,500 rpm
Standover Height
800 mm (31.5 in)
Engine
Displacement149.8 ccm (9.14 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power22.8 HP (16.6 kW)) @ 8500 RPM
Torque15.0 Nm (1.5 kgf-m or 11.1 ft.lbs) @ 7500 RPM
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
