Yamaha MT 15 V2 Upgrades That Redefine Street Domination

Although the Yamaha MT 15 V2 doesn’t really need an introduction, let me briefly refresh your memory with its past. The MT 15 was thus introduced in India in 2019 as a more urban-friendly substitute for the enduringly well-liked and especially track-focused R15 V3, which repeatedly shown its performance and handling prowess. Even the MT 15’s sales stats over time made a compelling case, surpassing those of its most significant competitor, the KTM 125 Duke.

Yamaha MT 15 V2 Style and Quality

The stylish color options on the Yamaha MT 15 V2 are the most noticeable visual change. This color is eye-catching, it is also energizing and appropriate for its intended audience. If you find the Cyan paint too garish or the Ice Vermillion too striking, you can opt for two more, more subdued colors: Racing Blue and Metallic Black. However, Yamaha hasn’t started from scratch to alter the design; everything is still the same but for the new colors.

An even more radical-looking style, modeled off the recently released MT-09, would have made for an intriguing visual. Yamaha has nevertheless made slight enhancements to the fitments and quality. The switchgear is pleasant and tactile, the plastics are neatly made, and there are very few panel gaps.

Comfort and Ergonomics

In classic streetfighter style, the rider would therefore sit atop the MT 15 V2. With your arms spread wide and your feet slightly back, you would stand erect. Due to its low seat height of 810mm, this bike is suitable for shorter or inexperienced riders and is also easy to flat-foot. All in all, this riding position provides the highest level of comfort when in the city. It’s all well and good, though, until you realise that this is most likely the only comfortable riding position on the motorcycle.

The MT 15’s riding quality is another area for improvement. A stiff suspension arrangement makes even the smallest bumps and undulations noticeable. On the larger bumps and speed breakers, the MT 15 V2 would even push you off the saddle. The damping was negligible or nonexistent even with the addition of a roughly 70 kilograms pillion. Although the rigidity makes the MT 15 V2 a well-handling motorbike, the track-focused R15 is more suited for this setup than the MT 15, which is an everyday, city-friendly motorcycle.

Engine and Performance

The MT 15 V2 engine specifications are almost unchanged. The 155cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with variable valve actuator technology is still a tried-and-true model. The output differs slightly from the prior model, though. With Version 2.0, the power has decreased from 18.23 bhp to 18.14 bhp. On the other hand, the torque has increased by 0.2 Nm to 14.1 Nm. This alteration is barely evident in the actual world though. Up to 3,500–4,000 rpm, it does feel a little held back; but, if you wring the throttle hard, the MT 15 releases loose. The bike reaches its redline at 10,000 rpm when the VVA engages, which happens at about 7,000 rpm.

However, Yamaha gave up its maximum speed to improve the midrange and fuel economy. The top speed of the new MT 15 V2 is 122 mph, as opposed to 130 mph for the previous generation. But the motor stays smooth and fairly vibe-free the entire time. At 100 kmph, there are a few tingles of vibration, but nothing too bothersome.

• Powered by a 155cc liquid-cooled, 4-valve engine that produces 18.1 bhp and 14.1 Nm of torque.
• Offers a peppy and engaging riding experience with good acceleration and top speed.
• Comes with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) for optimal power delivery across the rev range.

Features & Technology

The MT 15 V2 has a respectable feature list that is comparable to those of its competitors. LED projector headlamps and DRLs are included as standard equipment. The unit’s throw is adequate, although as we have noted with the previous generation, the spread might be better.
Nevertheless, the instrument cluster of the MT 15 Version 2.0 now has Bluetooth capability and may provide text and call alerts. However, given the performance the bike gives, we would have preferred dual-channel ABS with Version 2.0.

• Equipped with the first-in-segment Traction Control System (TCS) to improve safety and grip in slippery conditions.
• Has Dual Channel ABS for confident braking performance.
• Features an Upside Down (USD) front fork for superior handling and suspension feel.
• Boasts an aluminum swingarm for increased rigidity and stability.
• Offers Bluetooth connectivity through the Y-Connect app for various functions like call/message alerts, ride statistics, and maintenance tracking (except for the base variant).

Fuel Efficiency

The MT 15 V2 delivered an impressive 53 km/l of fuel efficiency on our test route, which is impressive for a high-revving motor that also provides lively and captivating performance. The MT 15 Version 2.0 has a 10-liter gasoline tank that allows it to travel about 530 kilometers on a single full tank of petrol. This, in our opinion, makes the MT 15 V2 even more desirable in light of the continuously rising cost of fuel.

Price and Variants

Yamaha MT 15 V2 price in India:

• The MT 15 V2 comes in 3 variants: Standard, Deluxe, and MotoGP Edition.
• Prices start at around Rs. 1.67 Lakh (ex-showroom) and vary depending on the variant and location.

Is it something you should purchase?

All things considered, the benefits of the MT 15 Version 2.0 exceed its drawbacks. Additionally, it is reasonably priced at Rs 1.60 lakh, much less than the market price of Rs 1.70 lakh for the KTM 125 Duke. The Yamaha is far more appealing at this price range, especially considering that it has more amenities, a more modern appearance, and more power!

Additionally, it boasts an incredibly efficient and sophisticated powertrain that will keep you entertained in city traffic with its captivating performance and deft handling. However, you should search elsewhere or perhaps take a look at the Yamaha FZ25, which has more space and better ride quality, if you are a taller person, travel with a pillion frequently, or prefer comfort over a sporty ride. Nevertheless, Yamaha might have finished the package by adding a dual-channel ABS, a more flexible suspension system, and an informative instrument cluster to the Yamaha MT 15 V2 upgrade.