Do you also dream of a classic bike that combines old-school style and modern technology? If so, today we bring you a comparison of two such Japanese retro beauties – the Yamaha XSR155 and the Honda CB150R. The Yamaha XSR155’s entry into India has created a new excitement among bike enthusiasts, especially with its price tag of just ₹149,990 (ex-showroom, Delhi). However, internationally, the Honda CB150R is also a strong contender in the same class. So, the question is, which of these two retro-modern machines is better for you? Let’s find the answer with photos and facts.

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Design

The Yamaha XSR155 offers a perfect blend of old-school style and modern touches. It features a round LED headlight, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a single-piece ribbed seat, and a circular digital instrument console, all of which give it a timeless, old-school charm. This bike will remind you of the 70s and 80s, yet it also feels completely modern.

On the other hand, the Honda CB150R takes a slightly different approach. It looks more modern than completely retro, with sharper lines, a compact tail section, and a sportier overall stance. Its design may remind you of the Honda CB300R, which was once sold in India. The LED lighting setup, petal disc brakes, and minimalist bodywork give it a premium European feel. In other words, if the XSR155 is a comfortable beauty, the CB150R is an athletic beauty.

Engine and Performance

The Yamaha XSR155 is powered by the same proven 155cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that powers the R15 V4 and MT-15 V2.0. This engine produces 18.4PS of power and 14.2Nm of torque, and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch. Safety features like dual-channel ABS and traction control also make it more reliable.

The Honda CB150R, on the other hand, is powered by a 149cc liquid-cooled engine. While official figures are not yet available, reports suggest it produces around 16.1PS of power and 13.6Nm of torque, and it is also paired with a 6-speed gearbox. In terms of performance, the Yamaha clearly has the upper hand, not only because of its larger engine, but also because of its Variable Valve Actuation technology. This technology improves both engine efficiency and performance.

Hardware and Suspension

The Yamaha XSR155 uses the same Deltabox frame as the R15, while suspension duties are handled by an upside-down fork and a monoshock. Braking is handled by disc brakes at both ends, along with a dual-channel ABS system. The 17-inch alloy wheels are shod with grippy MRF tires. The XSR has a fuel tank capacity of 10 liters and a curb weight of 137 kg. The bike has a seat height of 810 mm and a ground clearance of 170 mm, which is quite good for Indian roads.

The Honda CB150R also features similar hardware: a USD fork, a monoshock, and petal disc brakes at both ends. Like the XSR, it rides on 17-inch wheels. However, the Honda lags slightly in fuel tank capacity, as its tank holds only 8.5 liters. This makes it lighter, with a curb weight of 124 kg. Its seat height is 802 mm, making it more approachable, but ground clearance is only 139 mm.

Features

The Yamaha XSR155 keeps things simple but is packed with modern features. It features an LCD circular instrument console, full-LED lighting, and a slip-and-assist clutch. It also offers smartphone connectivity, but its minimalism enhances its charm and keeps the focus on pure riding.The Honda CB150R gets a rectangular LCD console and all-LED lighting, but lacks Bluetooth functionality. Therefore, the Yamaha appears to be slightly ahead in terms of features.

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Price

The Yamaha XSR155 is priced at ₹149,990 (ex-showroom) in India, making it the most affordable motorcycle among its 155cc siblings. Unfortunately, the Honda CB150R isn’t officially sold in India, but now that Yamaha has launched the XSR155, Honda is expected to bring this bike to the Indian market soon.