Goodbyes are really tough: bidding adieu to my Yamaha YZF-R15M

This motorcycle made me a motorcyclist, took me on memorable tours, get a taste of a race-track, and eventually made me a BHPian.

BHPian R15M_Rider recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Time To Say Goodbye...

Goodbyes are really, really tough. I was hoping so badly it would never come to this. But alas, between the tug of war between your first motorcycle and your dream motorcycle, the dream takes it.

The urge to get a bike in the 300-400cc segment with power around 40 bhp was really strong. I feel this is the ultimate sweet spot. Anything more than this is likely to be a hassle to handle for daily use. The keyword here is "Daily-Use". I want a motorcycle which I can use whenever I want to without thinking twice - be it commute, a short errand run etc, which also has good power to tour on and of course when the opportunity presents itself, be a blast on the race-track. That's why, my dream motorcycle is from this category and not in 600 or litre class segment. This will not change in future too.

While, I always wanted to keep my R15, reality is, I just don't think I will use it well once the newer bike comes. I feel seeing it collect dust and its battery power drain is more cruel and it might put a mental burden on my head leading me to regret it. We already have a CB350 and a blue R15 V4 in our family, so we definitely don't have the parking space in our apartment too. This would mean keeping it at my grandparent's home, visiting it maybe once a week. It didn't feel right both emotionally and financially too. I know I told myself and many times in this thread too that this might well be a keeper for life. But it just isn't logically feasible.

I was supposed to go on a trip to Yercaud this weekend, but early morning rains and forecast suggesting rains might be there on the route to Salem and Yercaud made us reconsider and turn back. My dad also wasn't very comfortable riding in the rain so we didn't want to risk it. The plan quickly changed to do some research, visiting showrooms and get the best deal for the YZF-R3. Why the R3? Well, I will put this once the R3 comes home and in a separate thread but to just say in in a few words - "Something you love can never be explained fully". Getting it on delivered on Deepawali mostly. Actually, the idea to get the R3 was initially in Nov/Dec only. Cause & Effect once again!

When it comes to finance side of things for the upgrade, well, it does help to acquire my dream bike quicker as well by making bringing down the astronomical 5.50 L figure a little less dearer to 3.65L (also coupled with a good 60k discount from the dealer).

Finally, thanks a lot to everyone who has been following this thread! This motorcycle made me a motorcyclist, took me on memorable tours, get a taste of a race-track, and eventually made me a BHPian. It will continue to live in my heart and memories. For existing R15 owners watching, do cherish every single moment you have with your beautiful machines. For a first bike, I can say with 100% confidence now, that you guys will turn out to be amazing riders when you upgrade too should the time comes for you.

Goodbye Dear Friend

Signing off with 23,100 km on the odometer with exactly 2 years of ownership as of today. I have till Friday to make a few commutes to office before leaving it at the dealer. See you guys in the R3 thread soon.

Ride Safe!

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