Yamaha MT 15 V2.0

The Yamaha MT-15 V2 is a roadster version of the popular Yamaha R15 model. It has a striking design and shares its mechanicals and the engine with the R15. With premium hardware and tech, the MT-15 V2 is among the most premium and sportiest motorcycles in the 150-160cc category.

The Yamaha MT-15 V2 has a sporty design that reminds one of the high-capacity motorcycles in Yamaha’s global MT range, such as MT-07 and MT-09. Its bikini fairing has a futuristic design, with an LED projector flanked by twin LED daytime running lights.

The Yamaha MT-15 V2's large and muscular fuel tank with extensions adds to its sporty looks. The compact rear section of the motorcycle sports a small LED tail light, a long number plate holder, and a tyre hugger. However, although practical, the grab rail for the pillion rider looks awkward and out of place.

The Yamaha MT-15 V2 is available in fancy colours, such as Cyan Storm DLX, Dark Matte Blue, Metallic Black, Cyber Green DLX, Ice Fluo-Vermillion DLX, Racing Blue DLX, Metallic Black DLX, and Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition. 

At the heart of the Yamaha MT-15 V2 is the tried-and-tested 155cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine shared with the R15 V4.0. This high-performance engine generates an impressive 18.4PS @10,000 rpm of maximum power and 14.1Nm @7500 rpm of maximum torque. It has a six-speed gearbox equipped with a slip-and-assist clutch for smooth gear transitions.

The Yamaha MT-15 V2 also has Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology for efficient performance across varied speeds. The variable valve lift and timing helps the bike achieve good acceleration even at lower rpm. However, we noticed a slight drop in acceleration around 5500 rpm. 

Above 7000 rpm, the engine starts to pull hard thanks to VVA. The engine is highly tractable, making it effortless to maintain speeds as low as 24kmph even while in 6th gear.

The liquid-cooled engine shows impressive performance. In terms of in-gear roll-on acceleration, the bike outpaces the R15. Although there are some vibrations, they are minimal and only become noticeable when riding in the higher RPM range.

Fuel efficiency is a prime factor for many riders, and the MT-15 V2 doesn't disappoint. It delivers a city mileage of 56.87 kmpl and 47.94 kmpl on highways.

The low kerb weight of 141kg helps the MT-15 change direction quickly, which makes it ideal for city traffic and everyday urban commutes. The suspension setup is on the firmer side and this helps keep the bike stable at higher speeds and also inspires confidence when cornering. But the same stiff suspension setup makes it really hard to ride on bad patches and poor roads. Even going over small potholes feels annoying. The overall ride quality is great only on well-paved roads, but once the roads get bad, the rider will struggle.

The brakes have now improved as compared to the previous version. The addition of dual-channel ABS as standard is a welcome feature. It provides better braking control and offers an extra layer of safety by not letting the bike skid when brakes are applied on slippery roads.

The Yamaha MT-15 V2 has a much more upright and comfortable riding position compared to the R15. While the seat appears well-padded, it has mildly harder cushioning, which might cause discomfort during long rides. However, it still serves well for commuting within the city.

The MT-15 V2 has an LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity. Riders can receive call and email alerts and track service reminders, the last parked location, average mileage, and post-ride stats through the Yamaha Y-connect smartphone app. Unfortunately, turn-by-turn navigation isn't available.

If you are looking for an urban-oriented, sporty naked motorcycle with good performance and easy handling, the Yamaha MT-15 V2 is worth considering. It might not offer an array of features in comparison to 150-160cc motorcycles. 

However, with its premium technology like VVA, liquid-cooled engine, and the Deltabox frame, the MT-15 V2 promises impressive performance and handling.