With the recent launch of the MT-15 version 2.0, Yamaha is keen on offering even more value for money and performance that attracts the youth towards the brand, something that the older model couldn't quite do. The MT-15 now gets a whole bunch of updates that aim to up the performance and desirability quotient. And we had the motorcycle to ourselves to see how much of it is true, spending a good weekend with it, clocking close to 250 kilometres.
(The Yamaha MT-15 V2 gets a new Aluminium swingarm, replacing the older box-section swingarm)
Photo Credit: Apoorv Choudhary
Starting straight with the biggest updates, the Aluminium swingarm, that replaces the box-section swingarm on the older model and the 37 mm gold coloured upside-down forks. Borrowed straight from the R15 V4, both additions make riding the motorcycle an engaging affair. The front-end feel is intuitive, which makes you more confident going into corners with the throttle open. Stability is another highlight, with the Aluminium swingarm adding a whole lot of it, be it high-speed runs or leaning into corners.
(The other big update is the golden USDs and while they definitely look good, the suspension now becomes stiffer than before)
Photo Credit: Apoorv Choudhary
The new USDs add to the appeal, with the outer tube bolted to the chassis for rigidity and balance. Now, the other part of it is that the suspension is stiffly sprung. So much so that, it will make you feel sharp-edged bumps right up your spine. A softer setup would have made more sense, especially on Indian roads. The motorcycle continues to be a wonderful handling machine, thanks to the new additions and the existing Deltabox frame along with a light kerb weight of 139 kg.
(The MT-15 continues to get the same 155 cc engine as the YZF R15 V4)
Photo Credit: Apoorv Choudhary
The MT-15 continues to get a 155 cc liquid-cooled, four-valve engine shared with the YZF-R15. The motorcycle feels composed when cruising at 100-110 kmph. Beyond that, the vibrations creep in on the foot pegs and the handlebars.
(The engine is high-revving, which means it breaks into a song only after 6,000 rpm. That results in a slightly narrower power band than we would have liked)
What has changed though is the character of the engine. The old MT-15 had a livelier state of tune while the new model sacrifices that explosiveness for better tractability. Since it is high revving, the engine breaks into a song only after 6,000 rpm. So, it has a narrower power band. A stronger bottom end would have made the engine even sweeter. The motorcycle can pull in 6th gear from speeds as low as 30 kmph and this comes as a boon every time you are riding on city roads. And the light pull of the clutch, quite likeable indeed.
(The MT-15 continues to be a machine that handles beautifully, especially in corners)
The braking on the motorcycle is a mixed bag! The front disc offers good bite and progression, while the rear needs a little more working, especially when you want to scrub off speed in a jiffy. And this is where Yamaha could have offered dual-channel ABS, even if it were as an option. Not having that is a big miss, we feel.
(Our test bike came dressed in Cyan Blue and we think it is perhaps the best colour on offer. The overall design and styling doesn't change much though)
Photo Credit: Apoorv Choudhary
Along with the cycle parts updates, the new MT-15 gets new colours, featuring the new Cyan Storm and Racing Blue colour options, along with Ice Fluo-Vermillion and Metallic Black colour options. Our test bike is the cool Cyan Storm, which is perhaps the best colour in our opinion. Apart from the new colours, the styling and design on the motorcycle stay the same as before and that's not a bad thing at all. The quality of the plastics and materials used goes up but can still be better.
(The instrument console on the new MT-15 has been updated as well. It now offers Bluetooth connectivity)
Photo Credit: Apoorv Choudhary
The instrument console on the 2022 MT-15 is also updated and now gets new features like Bluetooth connectivity with the Y-Connect mobile app, with features like call alerts, email and SMS alerts, and smartphone battery status. Although, offering turn by turn navigation could have been a good option.
(Comfy ergonomics on offer, with a slightly forward canted seating and rear-set foot pegs.)
Photo Credit: Apoorv Choudhary
Being a streetfighter, the MT-15 offers comfy ergonomics, with forward canted seating position and slightly rear-set foot pegs. The wide and low handlebar offers good purchase for lock-to-lock turns and quick direction changes. But, in case you are looking to ride with a pillion, especially on daily basis, the MT-15 may not be the best option, it is small and not the most practical unit.
(The 2022 Yamaha MT-15 makes for a good buy in the 150-200 cc segment, offering good value)
Photo Credit: Apoorv Choudhary
The new Yamaha MT-15 version 2.0 gets significant updates over the old model and prices go up by Rs. 12 to 13,000 too. Should you want to buy one, you will have to shell out about Rs. 1.6 lakh (ex-showroom). Is it worth the money? We say yes! Sure, it is not perfect, has a few chinks in its armour too. But it is a solid improvement over the old model, offers good performance and depending on your taste, it looks radical and has good road presence. All qualities that you would want from a motorcycle priced below Rs. 2 lakhs.
