Yamaha MT-15: Pros, Cons And Should You Buy One?

Should you buy the recently launched Yamaha MT-15? We take a look at its pros and cons to get you the answer

It is no secret that we’ve been a fan of the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0. But its aggressive riding position has left our wrists and backs wanting for something more “practical”. That’s where the Yamaha MT-15 comes in with its upright ergonomics, streetfighter looks and the same 155cc motor as its faired sibling. Should be an easy decision then, right? Well, we take a look at its pros and cons to find out. 

Also Read - Yamaha MT-15: Road Test Review

Pros

Fantastic styling

Just like the new-generation R15 V3.0, Yamaha has trickled down the design of its premium models on to its entry-level offerings. In this case, the MT-15 shares a lot of resemblance with the larger MT-09. Overall, the Yamaha MT-15 is one good-looking bike and gets a thumbs-up from our side.

Good headlamp spread

The lighting setup here consist of LED headlamps and two overhead LED DRLs. During our tests, we found the spread to be fairly impressive with a bright and wide beam spread. In fact, we prefer it over the R15 and the FZ25’s headlamp unit! 

Quick on its feet

Both the MT-15 and the YZF-R15 V3.0 share the same 155cc, single-cylinder motor with variable valve actuation (VVA). This allows the engine to run two-valve timings - one for better bottom end grunt and the other for top-end performance.

However, the MT-15 gets a larger 52-tooth rear sprocket instead of the 48-tooth unit seen on the R15 V3.0. This gives it a shorter gearing, resulting in better roll-on acceleration that makes quick overtaking manoeuvres a breeze. 

Not to mention, with Variable Valve Actuation 9VVA), you now don’t have to compromise on low to mid-end performance for a better top-end feel. Hence, you can ride the MT-15 in 5th gear all day long in the city. Speaking of which, we found the 6-speed gearbox a joy to use with its precise and light clutch action.

Agility 

Just like the R15 V3.0, the MT-15 gets the same deltabox frame along with a 41mm front fork and a monoshock unit at the rear. However, thanks to the shorter trail on the MT15, it is quicker to steer in the city. 

Quite frugal

During our test runs, the MT-15 returned a fuel efficiency figure of 52kmpl in the city and 48.5kmpl on the highways, which is quite impressive considering the overall performance on offer. 

Cons

Cramped seat

Swing a leg over the MT-15 and you might find yourself a bit cramped up. That’s because the handlebar is positioned quite close to the rider. Pair this with its upright ergonomics and rear-set footpegs and you might find yourself in a supermoto-like riding position. 

Awkwardly placed switchgear

For some reason, Yamaha has decided to ditch the switchgears found on the R15 and replace them with tinier units here. Even the placement of these switches is quite awkward and leads you to partially take your hands off the handlebar grip to operate. 

Only gets a single-channel ABS system

Unlike the R15 V3.0’s dual-channel ABS setup, the MT-15 settles for a single-channel unit. This is a huge miss considering the MT-15’s rather expensive price tag. 

Stiff suspension setup

The MT15’s suspension setup is tuned to be on the firmer side. While this aids in spirited riding, you might feel road imperfections and rumbles at slow speeds. The rear suspension is noticeably stiffer, sending a jolt to the rider’s back while going through potholes.

Should You Buy It? Yes, but….

The Yamaha MT-15 ticks all the right boxes. Looks? Check. Performance? Good handling? Check. Its drawbacks aren’t deal-breakers by any means. But what could be a deal-breaker though is its high asking price. At Rs 1.36 lakh (ex-Delhi), the MT is only Rs 4,280 cheaper than the R15. To makes things worse, it misses out on the R15’s dual-channel ABS and makes do with sub-par fit and finish. 

However, it is also the only performance-oriented 150cc naked motorcycle out there. The only other option you have within the same price bracket is the KTM 125 Duke, which pales in terms of performance when compared to this naked Yamaha.