Yamaha MT-15 V2 : Yamaha’s MT-15 V2 continues to impress with its bold streetfighter design and practical refinements, making it a compelling choice for urban riders. The bike retains its aggressive styling while incorporating updates that enhance its daily usability. At its heart lies a 155cc liquid-cooled engine, derived from the sportier R15 but retuned for stronger low-end performance. This ensures a thrilling yet manageable ride, whether navigating city streets or open highways.
What truly distinguishes the MT-15 V2 is its lightweight chassis, weighing just 141 kg, paired with premium components like USD forks and an assist-and-slipper clutch. These features not only elevate performance but also make the bike more accessible to newer riders while still offering an engaging experience for seasoned motorcyclists.
Striking Design That Stands Out
The MT-15 V2’s sharp, angular bodywork and futuristic LED headlamp with DRLs give it an unmistakable streetfighter presence. Yamaha’s designers have masterfully blended aggression with functionality, evident in the exposed frame, compact tail section, and muscular fuel tank. Available in Racing Blue and Metallic Black, the bike exudes a premium feel that turns heads wherever it goes.
Despite its sporty appearance, the ergonomics remain surprisingly practical. The upright riding position strikes a balance between control and comfort, though taller riders might find the seat slightly cramped on longer rides.
Engaging Performance for City and Highway
The 155cc motor’s power output might not look a whole lot (just 0.3 PS less than certain rivals) on paper, but the VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) from Yamaha translates to the MT-15’s superlative driveability across a variety of engine speeds. In city areas the bike feels anxious accelerating away from a stop, with the 6-speed transmission providing a casual highway ride.
It’s in handling that the MT-15 V2 scores big. The USD front forks ensure the riders get a true feed on the steering feedback, while the firm but composed monoshock rear suspension makes sure the bike remains stable even on rough roads. This configuration allows us to also enjoy riding it very hard but also for daily commuting etc.
Practical Tech and Features
The tech is simple though effective as we’d expect from Yamaha. The negative LCD screen is visible in any condition, while the Bluetooth enabled Y-Connect app pairs to smartphones to handle calls and ride stats.
But the lack of dual-channel ABS (it is offered only at front wheel) and a TFT display might leave some of the buyers disappointed. However, in absence of these, costs are kept in check, keeping the price low enough to make the MT-15 V2 an attractive option for those who prefer performance over too much tech.
Impressive Fuel Efficiency
It’s weirdly fuel efficient as well with claimed numbers of 47 km/l. The 10-litre fuel tank gives a range of more than 400 km, an ideal choice for city commutes as well as weekend trips.
Pricing and Competition
From ₹1.68 lakh (ex-showroom), the MT-15 V2 is a notch above competing Bajaj Pulsar N160 and the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, but for enthusiasts who prefer a fancy on the move, courtesy the premium suspension and R15-derived engine that has a zest going for it, it is justifiable, or so you think.
Final Thoughts
Yamaha MT-15 V2, doesn’t try to be all things to all riders; it tries to be pure, unadulterated riding fun in the most attractive package. The small issues the bike has (like the cramped pillion seat) are overshadowed by its pluses (exciting performance, superior handling and radical styling), and therefore, the bike is one of the best offerings in the 150-160cc category.
