The Yamaha MT-15 V2 is the iconic Japanese brand’s popular offering in the 150-160cc motorcycle segment in India. With prices starting at Rs 1.67 Lakhs in Delhi, it strikes a balance between performance, features and affordable pricing.
Introduction
The MT-15 brand carries significant pedigree as part of Yamaha’s globally renowned MT hyperbike series known for their sporty riding dynamics. The lightweight YZF-R15 derived chassis paired with signature MT series styling makes the MT-15 stand out in its category. It’s a motorcycle purpose-built for riders seeking urgency and excitement from everyday rides.
Pricing, Variants and Color Options
Pricing
The Yamaha MT-15 price in Delhi across variants is:
| Variant | Ex-showroom Price |
|---|---|
| MT-15 STD | Rs 1.67 Lakhs |
| MT-15 Deluxe | Rs 1.71 Lakhs |
| MT-15 MotoGP Edition | Rs 1.73 Lakhs |
Variants Explained
The MT-15 is available in 3 variants:
– STD: The base variant gets single channel ABS, LED headlight and Metzeler rear tyres. It misses out on Bluetooth connectivity.
– Deluxe: Adds a Bi-functional LED headlight, LED flashers and Bluetooth enabled instrument cluster. This variant offers the best balance of features and pricing for most buyers.
– MotoGP Edition: Based on the Deluxe variant, it gets Yamaha MotoGP team inspired graphics and color theme. A collector’s edition for racing fans.
Color Options
Available colors include:
- Storm Fluo-Vermillion
- Metallic Black
- Dark Matt Blue
- Ice Fluo-Vermillion
- MotoGP Edition
So there are appealing colorways on offer accentuating its sport bike positioning.
Engine Specs, Performance and Mileage
Engine and Transmission
Power comes from YZF-R15 derived 155cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, SOHC 4-valve engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). It churns out 18.4 PS peak power @ 10,000 RPM with 14.1 Nm max torque @ 8,500 RPM mated to an assist & slipper clutch enabled 6-speed gearbox.
Performance and Acceleration
Weighing just 139 kgs, the power to weight ratio enables exhilarating performance:
- 0 to 60 kmph: 3.53 seconds
- 0 to 100 kmph: 10.56 seconds
- Top Speed: 136 kmph
So while not litre-class fast, the MT-15 offers scintillating acceleration and triple digit top whack for a midsize machine. Its 37 mm upside-down front forks and preload adjustable monoshock allows stable high speed corner carving assisted by a wide 140mm rear radial tyre.
Mileage and Economy
ARAI certified mileage is impressive at 48 kmpl considering its performance positioning. Actual fuel efficiency will be 5-10 kmpl lower in everyday start-stop use – still easily returning ~40+ kmpl for enthusiasts wringing the throttle. The 11 litre fuel capacity allows riding range of 400+ kms before needing a top up.
Design and Ergonomics
Retains MT-Series Signature Look
The trademark MT design character with twin LED position lamps, menacing mono-eye headlights and chiselled fuel tank shape gives it immense road presence. The exposed steel diamond type frame and beefy upside down front forks gives it a raw mechanical appeal.
Seating Stance
The MT-15 offers flexible riding ergonomics – neither full sport nor upright commuter. The slightly rear set footpegs allow comfortable knee bending coupled with roomy handlebars reducing wrist strain. Pillion seat space is tight yet acceptable. Riders below 5.5 height can experience challenges at standstill though.
Build Quality and Switchgear
Panel gaps between parts feels consistent indicating solid assembly quality control by Yamaha. Switchgear, levers and buttons have premium tactile feel without loose play. EFI sensors ensure good Throttle response while quickshifter enables full control of power delivery. Overall a well engineered package reflecting Japanese reliability expectations.
Features, Technology and Lighting
All-digital Instrument Cluster
An all-digital negative LCD instrument cluster displays all critical ride information via an easy to read design:
- Analog Speedometer
- Digital Tachometer & Fuel Gauge
- Gear position indicator
- Two tripmeters
Switches on the handlebar allow toggling between various modes and settings without taking eyes off the road.
LED Lighting
Bright LED headlamps with AHO boosts night time visibility offering 15% more illumination over halogen bulbs. Tail lamps also feature LEDs increasing visibility and lowering electrical loads.
Assist and Slipper Clutch
The A&S clutch reduces lever effort needed while allowing aggressive downshifts preventing rear tyre hop. Benefits include reduced fatigue and lower chance of wheel lockup during extreme maneuvers.
Quick Shifter
Works on both upshifts and downshifts for seamless movement between gears without using the clutch. Helps keep the motorcycle in the optimal RPM range delivering smooth acceleration and higher corner speeds.
Bluetooth Connectivity
The MT-15 Deluxe and MotoGP variants support Bluetooth mobile pairing for phone calls and basic vehicle telemetrics via the ‘Y-Connect’ app. Useful for trip logging, calls access and notifications display.
Safety, Handling and Braking
Chassis and Suspension Setup
The diamond frame chassis adapted from the R15 V3 offers phenomenal handling finesse aided by top notch cycle parts:
- Telescopic USD Forks with preload adjustment
- Monoshock rear suspension with 7 step adjustment
- 10 step preload and rebound damping adjustment
Anchoring Capability
- 282 mm front and 220 mm rear petal disc brakes
- Dual-channel Anti-lock Braking System
- Radial caliper mounting for precision bite
It offers lock-up free hard braking capability leveraging ABS for maximum traction. Ideal for aggressive street use given its adept dynamics.
Tyres and Wheels
The MT-15 runs 17 inch 10 spoke alloy wheels front and rear wrapped with tubeless tyres. The rear gets a radial construction 140mm width tyre for maximising grip and high corner speeds.
Ownership Experience and Service Support
Yamaha enjoys strong brand equity among Indian enthusiasts resulting in robust ownership experience for MT-15 buyers:
Ratings
- 4.2/5 stars – Reviewers praise balance of performance and handling
- 85% customers willing to recommend per portal surveys
Service Network
Yamaha has over 1850 touchpoints with 1000+ dedicated service centers ensuring extensive after-sales support coverage reach across India.
Resale Value
Yamaha bikes traditionally command higher resale value in used market thanks to Japanese reliability perception. Expect ~65% retained value for MT-15 after using 3 years retaining value better.
Customizability
Plentiful genuine accessories and add-on options available:
- Ergonomic and styling accessories
- Luggage mounts and performance parts
Ownership Cost
At around ~₹18,000 for annual scheduled maintenance, running costs stays reasonable for a performance motorcycle despite premium positioning – a boon for enthusiasts tight on budgets.
Overall Yamaha offers comprehensive support throughout lifecycle while keeping maintenance costs in check relatively for buyers attracted to MT-15’s exhilarating ride experience.
Expert and User Reviews
The Yamaha MT-15 scores quite decently among enthusiasts and experts when it comes to ratings:
Expert Ratings
- Autocar India – 8/10 – Thrilling balance of acceleration and handling
- ZigWheels – 4/5 – Perfect R15 riders’ upgrade offering more punch
User Review Ratings
- 91mobiles – 4.2/5 – Reviewers praise value for performance
- MouthShut – 4/5 – Fun, powerful machine offering value ownership experience
Buyers praised its exciting acceleration rush, adept handling dynamics plus 65+ kmpl real world mileage. The premium bias ply rear radial tyre in particular adds confidence during hard corner lean angles. Gear shifting feels seamless while throttle response stays crisp all through RPM sweep. Together it makes highway storming an absolute joy reviewers gushed about.
Alternatives and Competition
Versus KTM 200 Duke
The KTM 200 Duke offers equivalent 200cc performance at a similar price point around ₹1.8 Lakhs on-road. But its hard-edged focus on track bully capabilities takes away some everyday practicality that the MT-15 retains via better pillion space, mileage and ergonomics. Test ride both to understand which riding focus suits your priorities.
Against Pulsar NS 200
The NS 200 competes on pricing starting ₹1.4 Lakhs offers equivalent real world performance. But MT-15 enjoys better perception thanks to foreign brand cachet. Also, lacks features like Bluetooth connectivity, USD forks and fat rear tyres offered on the Yamaha. Better everyday motorcycle than just apex hunting.
Compared to Gixxer 250
Suzuki Gixxer 250 offers a refined yet powerful 250cc engine at a similar price but compromises on underpinnings like spindly telescopic forks. Focuses more on real world易用性. The MT-15 promises better handling precision, outright acceleration and rider engagement via multiple rider aids off its 150cc motor. Preferred choice for enthusiasts despite smaller engine displacement.
Loan and Insurance Policies
Flexible Finance Schemes
Yamaha offers multiple finance schemes via tie ups with banking partners:
- Low interest rates starting from 10% per annum
- Finance eligibility for up to 100% ex-showroom price
- EMI starting from just ₹5,852 per month
Comprehensive Insurance
Multiple coverage options available:
- Zero depreciation premium insurance plans
- Add-on roadside assistance packages
- Consumable cover on top of basic insurance
Attractive financing schemes coupled with insurance flexibility makes purchase easy across diverse buyer budgets and priorities.
City-wise Ex-Showroom Prices
Given Yamaha’s extensive local assembly and manufacturing footprint, MT-15 pricing stays consistent nationally with only minor differences across cities:
| City | MT-15 Price |
|---|---|
| Mumbai | ₹1.68 Lakhs |
| Pune | ₹1.68 Lakhs |
| Hyderabad | ₹1.66 Lakhs |
| Chennai | ₹1.67 Lakhs |
| Bangalore | ₹1.69 Lakhs |
| Kolkata | ₹1.68 Lakhs |
On-road price varies across cities due to RTO registration, insurance and differences in state level taxes. But competitive ex-showroom tag makes the MT-15 alluring value for enthusiasts everywhere.
Summing It Up
The Yamaha MT-15 V2 strikes an appealing balance between urgency, handling finesse and everyday ride-ability. Factor in thrilling acceleration rush from its 155cc motor plus premium componentry at an accessible pricing – it’s easy to justify the MT magic this small machine packs in.
Overall if you prioritize versatile performance that punches above its weight for tight budgets, few motorcycles check boxes as compellingly as the Yamaha MT-15. A worthy contender even versus higher displacement options. Test ride to sample the thrill!
