Now, the Bajaj V15 is a completely new motorcycle - new design, new chassis(a double downtube frame), and a completely new engine. Where it differs from any of the current 150cc engines from the Bajaj stable is that this one has been built keeping in mind the strong personality of the bike.
The brief, we are told, was to have an engine which will give a sense of a solid, stable ride, than outright lightning fast performance and the inherent sporty nature that we have come to identify Bajaj bikes with. In a way, it’s a step away from the norm, but it’s a conscious effort, that to make a commuter feel strong, stable and make a statement - much like a strong, silent personality.
The Bajaj V15 is the latest 150cc commuter motorcycle from Bajaj Auto. A homage to heritage and history, the V15 gets metal from the scrapped aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. In a way, that in itself is the USP of this bike, named after India’s first aircraft carrier - and marketed as a tough as nails, bold, sturdy new commuter motorcycle.
The way the Bajaj V15 looks could very well be attributed to a neo-retro design. To me, it evokes the simplicity in design of motorcycles of the’80s, yet with modern touches, which underline its contemporary styling. So you have a muscular tank and a rear seat cowl which evoke café racer-ish elements. Then you have the wheels - 18-inch front and 16-inch rear - shod with fat rubber, which is what conventional cruisers follow. But the overall silhouette is quite pleasant, robust and very different from what we are used to seeing on the streets.