Yamaha MT-15 is basically a naked version of the YZF-R15 V3.0 as it shares in aplenty with the fully faired sibling
The Yamaha MT-15 is finally close to getting launched in India. The naked version of the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0, which shares the engine, suspension, and brakes with its faired sibling, can be booked at the official dealerships for a token amount of Rs 5,000.
The company has already teased the upcoming motorcycle with the tag line “choose your side as the dark forces approach.” The Yamaha MT-15 is actually based on the company’s ‘dark side of Japan’ theme, as per which bigger models like the MT09 have been designed.
The Yamaha MT-15 shares all its cycle parts, including the chassis, suspension and brakes with the YZF-R15. Internationally, the Yamaha MT-15 comes with upside-down front forks, but the Indian version will get regular telescopic forks to keep costs under a check. Also, instead of the IRC tires that are available abroad, the Indian motorcycle will be shod with MRF rubber.
However, the design of the India-spec Yamaha MT-15 stays true to that of the international version. It is even powered by the same 155cc single-cylinder motor that powers the R15 V3.0. The liquid-cooled engine produces a maximum power of 18.7 bhp and a peak torque of 15 Nm.
The engine of the Yamaha MT-15, like that of the Yamaha YZF-R15, also benefits from VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) technology. The motor comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox which works in tandem with a slipper clutch. The motorcycle also gets dual-channel ABS, an all-digital instrument cluster, and full LED lighting setup.
Once launched, the Yamaha MT-15 will become the most feature-laden motorcycle in the performance-oriented 150cc category. There are good chances of the new model being priced slightly lower to the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0.