If you can get the original, why buy the first copy?
When we asked Yamaha for the XSR155, the Japanese brand gave us the awkward looking FZ-X instead.
Sure, it wasn't what the enthusiasts wanted, but it had its own fan following. But now that we have both bikes, here's a comparison to see which one suits whom:
Price & Variants
Yamaha XSR155 | Yamaha FZ-X | ||
Variant | Ex-showroom Price | Variant | Ex-showroom Price |
Metallic Blue | Rs 1,49,990 | Metallic Black and Dark Matte Blue | Rs 1,20,800 |
Vivid Red | Rs 1,52,990 | Deep Purplish Blue Metallic | Rs 1,29,200 |
Metallic Grey | Rs 1,56,990 | ||
Greyish Green Metallic & Metallic Black | Rs 1,58,990 |
The Yamaha FZ-X wins the price battle fair and square. Its base variant costs almost Rs 30,000 less than the XSR155 and in this segment, that much money is more than a year's worth of fuel.
While the XSR155 isn't a particularly expensive bike in itself, the FZ-X is quite a good value-for-money proposition. Whether the XSR155 justifies its higher price tag is something we'll talk about later.
Dimensions & Design
Specifications | Yamaha XSR155 | Yamaha FZ-X | Difference |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 10 litres | 10 litres | - |
Kerb Weight | 137kg | 139kg | +2kg |
Seat height | 810mm | 810mm | - |
Wheelbase | 1325mm | 1330mm | +5mm |
Both bikes are similar in terms of their overall dimensions, and there are no major differences between them. They're both accessible bikes that are easy to get on and ride for all sorts of riders.
One thing, though, is that the Yamaha XSR155 is quite a compact motorcycle. The high footpegs make for a slightly sporty riding posture, and while it's a retro on the outside, it's a thoroughly sporty bike on the inside. The FZ-X, meanwhile, has a lot more relaxed ergonomics, and if you want something purely for no-nonsense commuting, you might like its spaciousness a bit more.
It's worth noting that despite having a bigger and more sophisticated engine, the XSR manages to be a little lighter than the already light FZ-X. Moving both bikes around parking lots will be a breeze.
While design is subjective, there's no denying that the FZ-X is an awkward-looking bike. The proportions don't gel well, and it just doesn't have that retro charm. The Yamaha XSR155 isn't exactly the prettiest retro bike, but it's coherent and is put together well.
Features & Safety
Key Features | |
Yamaha XSR155 | Yamaha FZ-X |
|
|
The neo-retro approach of the XSR155 is visible here too. It might be a retro bike, but it has all the modern features you can think of at this price point. There was a time when variable valve actuation was a feature seen only in 1000cc superbikes, but now it's made its way to even 150cc bikes.
The FZ-X, on the other hand, is simpler. While some might say having a traction control system on it is overkill, the truth is that you can never be too safe on our roads, especially for new riders on wet roads. But that's also exactly why we wish Yamaha had given the FZ-X dual-channel ABS instead.
Engines
Specifications | Yamaha XSR155 | Yamaha FZ-X |
Engine | 155cc liquid-cooled engine | 149cc air-cooled engine |
Power | 18.4PS at 10,000rpm | 12.4PS at 7250rpm |
Torque | 14.2Nm at 7,500pm | 13.3Nm at 5500rpm |
Gearbox | 6-speed | 5-speed |
The R15-derived engine in the XSR155 loves to rev. In fact, it gets properly going only after about 7000rpm and from there, revving it to the redline is a real joy. And if you think that'll compromise on its mileage, you'd be wrong. It returned 37.49kmpl in our tests, which is pretty decent for a liquid-cooled, performance-oriented engine.
The Yamaha FZ-X wants you to take it easy. Its engine has decent grunt at low speeds, and it'll handle your commuting duties quite well, without demanding too much from you. But if you want something even remotely exciting, the FZ-X will not impress you at all. It's meant to be a no-nonsense commuter, and that's exactly what it is. But then, it's superbly efficient, and is even on par with some of the 125cc bikes!
Verdict
The only reason you should go for the FZ-X over the XSR is if you prioritise outright mileage, are on a very tight budget, but also want a bike that looks a bit retro while being light. Despite its heavier price tag, the XSR justifies it by offering sporty performance wrapped in a tasteful retro design; the XSR is the more obvious choice. It's a fun bike to ride, irrespective of whether you're commuting or going out for breakfast rides on the weekend.
XSR155 Vs rivals:
Royal Enfield Hunter 350 - Get the XSR155 and you'll have a sportier, more fun bike than the Royal Enfield Hunter 350.
Yamaha MT-15 - Since they're largely the same bike underneath, get the MT-15 if you want something sporty-looking and get the XSR if you want something that looks more neo-retro.
Yamaha R15 - If you're ready to compromise on comfort, the R15 is a better-looking and more exciting bike.
Honda CB150R - The CB150R might be a more neo-retro bike but it's not on sale in India as of now, so the XSR155 is the one to get.
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V - The RTR 160 4V is one of our favourite Apaches but its engine still cannot match the excitement of the Yamaha's liquid-cooled engine.
Honda CB190SS - The CB190SS is more of a proper old-school bike, while the XSR is a modern bike under the retro fairing. The CB190SS is also not on sale in India.