We believe that Yamaha will add yet another motorcycle to the 150cc segment, and this time it will be the MT-15. The 2019 MT-15 will be the company’s most premium 150cc sport-naked bike since it will share the majority of its mechanical bits with the R15 V3.0.
The 2019 MT-15 will be powered by the same liquid-cooled motor as the new R15. Exact figures haven't been revealed yet, but in the R15 V3.0, the 155cc, single-cylinder, SOHC engine delivers 19.3hp and 15Nm of peak torque and also features Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). The use of VVA allows the powerplant to generate decent low- and mid-range performance without compromising on an exciting top-end delivery. This motor comes paired to a 6-speed gearbox and a slip and assist clutch.
While the 2019 MT-15 showcased in Thailand was equipped with an upside-down fork, we expect the India-spec model to get a conventional unit similar to the R15 V3.0. Expect the monoshock, brakes and chassis to remain identical to the R15. That said, the MT-15 will come equipped with ABS as standard.
The styling for the new 150cc sport-naked has been inspired by the larger displacement MT offerings, making it look muscular and aggressive. The most intriguing design highlight has to be the LED headlight. The sculpted fuel tank with sharp extensions is similar to the MT-09’s and endows the new bike with a mass-forward profile. The MT-15 will also use the all-digital instrument cluster from the R15.
Yamaha will most likely price this motorcycle lower than the R15, which retails at Rs 1.27 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). However, don’t expect the price difference to be huge because they are very similar in terms of specifications and equipment. This means, the MT-15 will compete against higher capacity 200cc sport-nakeds like the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and the Bajaj Pulsar NS200. Considering that the Yamaha will be a good deal lighter than those bikes, while also being nearly as quick, it should make for a fun alternative.
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
