Yamaha MT-15 V2.0

Yamaha MT-15 V2.0

Does the agile Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 even need an introduction? It is the sporty and cool street-naked sibling of the older R 15 V4 which recently got an impressive modification. The Version 2.0 flaunts a few significant transitions which have quite an impact on how the commuter rides and looks. Apparently, it is the best in its category with refined motor and high-end comfortability. It comes with a hardware update, a host of new features and incredible colour options. The silhouette and stance remain the same in this version. The beast-inspired styling and the agile qualities make it one of the most popular in this category.

How is the Design?

The body panel of the Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 has not been modified and is similar to the previous version. The introduction of whole new colour schemes and editions enhance the styling of the motorcycle. If one feels gaudy about the bold colours, it is good to know that there are relatively subtler options. The colours in this version add to its character and the front end is made muscular upon the installation of the USD fork. Moving on, there are additional updates in this version which feature an LCD cluster and Bluetooth connectivity. The instrument cluster also displays SMS, missed call and incoming call alerts, phone battery and email notifications. It, however, does not include navigation prompts. The placement of the indicator switches and the horn is somewhat irritant and plastic quality could have been improved in the latest version.

How is the Performance?

The Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 is powered by a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-valve, 155 cc engine which is capable of making 18.1 bhp of power at 10000 rpm and 14.2 Nm of peak torque at 7500 rpm. The MotoGP inspired swingarm improved stability to the beastly machine under hard braking and around corners. The kerb weight of the bike is 139 kg which also aids superior handling. The Deltabox frame also adds to the superior performance of the commuter. The ground clearance and suspensions provide easy manoeuvring along uneven rural roads. The fuel economy is good both in city traffic and on highways. So, performance wise, this bike is easy to rear and good for daily commuting.

How does the MT-15 V2.0 Ride?

The Yamaha R 15 version 4.0 was revamped by the installation of a USD fork and good to know that the Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 is endowed with the same. Unlike the older Yamaha MT-15 version which was less of a cousin for being fitted with a rather economic box-section swingarm, the current version fortunately gets an aluminium swingarm like the R15. Besides the aforesaid tweaks in version 2.0, the wheelbase of the commuter is sharply reduced by 10mm because of the modifications of the mounting point due to the installation of the USD fork. All these alterations result in significant alterations in the ride and handling of the bike. When riding on uneven and bumpy roads, the stiffness of the suspension could be felt, but it will not be jarring. The front end feels better around turns and corners, allowing the rider to pick up more speed and the bike still will move along the intended line and seem notably planted. This commuter is super-reactive and responsive to the unit because of the tight-turning radius, sharp steering and extra leverage. Yamaha is yet to provide ABS at the rear. The poor and uneven road conditions lead to the propensity of Indian commuters to exploit the rear brake and having a locked wheel during emergency braking might result in losing control.

How comfortable is the Yamaha MT-15 V2.0?

The Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 has a pretty impressive pick up and therefore comfortable to ride. The seating posture of this bike is not aggressive and ensures long-term relaxation on long hauls. However, the pillion is smaller and triangular making it rather uncomfortable when travelling long distances and one can even end up with a sore backside. The seat, although looks stylish and sporty, may feel stiff when seated for a longer time. Therefore, it is not very good for carrying two persons on long hauls and does not seem very practical for family rides.

How's the tech?

The Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 is powered by a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-valve, 155 cc engine which is capable of making 18.1 bhp of power at 10000 rpm and 14.2 Nm of peak torque at 7500 rpm. The instrument cluster is fully digitalised with a gear shift indicator and clock display. Y-connectivity is available in this version. The handle bar has an engine-kill switch and the indicator switch and horn is placed at an irritant reverse position. The single channel ABS may not seem feasible on uneven city streets that require emergency braking.

How's the mileage of the Yamaha MT-15 V2.0?

The Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 gives a pretty average mileage of 48 kmpl. However, on highways it can give a mileage of about 56.87 kmpl.

Is the Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 good value for money?

The Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 is a great machine to tackle the urban conditions of the Indian cities. Its low kerb weight, quick handling and peppy engine appeal to riders who look for a fun and thrilling commuting experience. It costs slightly higher than the other models in this category, but it is justified in terms of performance and comfortability.

How is the after sales service?

The after-sale service is incredibly good but the service network of Yamaha needs to be extended in urban locations. Five services of Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 are free of cost. The first service can be availed after covering 100 km, the second after 4000 km, the third after 7000 km, the fourth after 10000 km and the 13000 km.

Which motorbikes compete in this segment?

Some of the strongest contenders of the Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 are Pulsar RS 200, KTM 125 Duke, Honda CB200X, Bajaj Dominar 250 and Suzuki Gixxer 250. Honda CB200X is the cheapest in this category and the rest of the bikes cost more or less the same as Yamaha MT-15 V2.0.

Verdict (Value for money)

The Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 is a sports bike which comes with a host of modifications that ensure improved handling. This bike is good for commuting in city traffic and comfortable on long hauls. This bike costs around Rs 164,00 to 1,6500 but is a good value for money in terms of its performance and facelift.