Yamaha Xabre Vs 2025 MT-15 V2: Then Vs Now
Here’s an interesting fact: The first streetfighter version of the Yamaha R15 was actually the Yamaha Xabre, which then evolved into the MT-15
The Yamaha MT-15 has become one of the most popular 150-160cc streetfighters in India today, but it wasn’t Yamaha’s first attempt in this segment. In fact, back in 2016, the brand launched the Xabre (or M-Slaz in some markets) as its very first streetfighter version of the iconic Yamaha R15.
It looked aggressive, came with premium hardware, and set the stage for what would later evolve into the MT-15. Nearly a decade apart, here’s how the new 2025 Yamaha MT-15 V2 compares to its predecessor.
Price
The 2025 MT-15 V2 starts at Rs 1,69,550 for the Standard variant and goes up to Rs 1,80,500 for the Deluxe (DLX) version, both ex-showroom Delhi. The Yamaha Xabre, when it debuted in 2016, was priced at IDR 29.8 million in Indonesia (around Rs 1.40 lakh back then).
While the MT-15 V2 is clearly more expensive, the jump in pricing is justified by the significant upgrades in performance, technology, and features.
Design
The MT-15 V2 carries the signature styling inspired by bigger siblings like the Yamaha MT-03, MT-07, MT-09, and MT-10. It has a sharp, muscular tank with extended shrouds, gold-coloured inverted fork, a minimalist tail section, and a tri-split headlamp setup. With new colour schemes, especially the striking Vivid Violet Metallic, the bike looks funkier than ever.
The Xabre, on the other hand, looked radical for its time. It had sharp, angular tank extensions, a sleek rear, and one of the earliest uses of LED headlights in the 150cc segment. Its bulkier design and muscular stance gave it the look of a bigger bike.
Engine
Powering the MT-15 is a 155cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) that’s shared with the Yamaha R15 V4. It makes 18.4PS at 10,000rpm, 14.1Nm at 7,500rpm, and is paired to a 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch. The engine is smooth, rev-happy and versatile, offering enough grunt for daily commuting while still capable of highway stints. VVA tech ensures the engine offers an exciting low-end grunt as well as top-end drive.
The Xabre used the 149cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder SOHC engine from the older R15 V2, without the VVA. It produced 16.1PS at 8,500rpm, 14.3Nm at 7,500rpm, and also with a 6-speed gearbox. While still peppy and fun in the city, the lower power levels are quite evident as compared to the newer 155cc motor.
Underpinnings
The Yamaha MT-15 V2 uses a perimeter frame, 37mm inverted fork, and monoshock with preload adjustability. It has a 282mm front disc and 220mm rear, with dual-channel ABS. It runs on 17-inch wheels with a 100-section front tyre and 140-section rear. The bike weighs 141kg kerb, has a 810mm seat height, 170mm ground clearance, and a 10-litre fuel tank.
The Xabre also had a perimeter frame, 37mm inverted fork fork, and rear monoshock. It got a 267mm front disc and 220mm rear, but no ABS. It also ran on 17-inch alloys with a 90-section front and 120-section rear tyre. It had a 135kg kerb weight, 805mm seat height, 164mm ground clearance, and a slightly larger 10.2-litre fuel tank.
Features
The 2025 MT-15 in the DLX variant comes with a full colour TFT console with Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and Yamaha’s Y-Connect app compatibility for ride stats, last parked location, maintenance reminders. It also has all-LED lights and switchable traction control.
Though futuristic for its time, the Xabre was relatively simpler. It had an LCD console and LED head and tail lights. However it lacked electronic rider aids, navigation or Bluetooth.
Verdict
Back in 2016, Xabre, with its sharp streetfighter styling and premium components was an accessible sporty 150, backed by the R15’s peppy performance. While it may feel outdated now, the Xabre built the foundation for the MT-15, which, in its 2025 iteration stands as one of the most feature-packed performance 160cc bikes.
The MT-15 is faster, smoother, far more feature-rich, and carries the same aggressive DNA in a sleeker, more refined package. If the Xabre was Yamaha’s first experiment in the segment, the MT-15 V2 is the finished product. The Xabre walked so that the MT-15 could run.
Yamaha MT 15 Version 2.0 User Reviews
- Unleashing the Beast within the V2The Yamaha MT 15 V2 is a top pick because it offers a perfect mix of style and performance for city riding Many riders choose it for the aggressive look that makes it stand out on the road Another big reason is the Variable Valve Actuation technology which gives you great power both at low speeds and when you are pushing it harder. It is also very light and easy to handle in heavy traffic while staying very fuel efficient It basically gives you the feel of a much bigger sport bike without the high running costs or the heavy weight. The ride is typically described as sharp and exciting because the bike feels very light and responsive. The upside down forks provide great stability and a planted feel when you are leaning into corners You probably notice that the engine is very refined and stays smooth until the variable valve actuation kicks in around seven thousand rpm giving you a sudden boost of power. The seating position is upright which is great for visibility and comfort in city traffic although the seat can feel a bit firm on longer journeys. Overall it is a bike that makes every short trip feel like a bit of an adventure because of how quickly it reacts to your inputs. The Yamaha MT 15 V2 is a great choice because it gives you high end technology like a slipper clutch and upside down forks in a small and manageable package. The engine uses the same high performance DNA found in the R15 which means you get incredible speed and acceleration for its class while still getting amazing fuel mileage It is also one of the best looking bikes on the road with an aggressive design that turns heads everywhere Another big plus is the upright riding position which makes it much more comfortable for daily commuting than a standard sport bike It is basically the perfect combination of a practical city bike and a thrilling performance machine that is easy to maintain and hold its value well over time.Read More8
- Sports look is so goodSuperb bike in budget. Price sahi rakha gaya hai bike ka or ab to gst bhi nhi hai to price kafi sahi hai iske mileage ko dekhte hue iske look ko dekhte hue kafi accha look hai or baki sab bohot achi bike hai. To comfortable seating or bike. Bike k comfort bohot acche se dekhe gaye hain acchi bike hai comfort me or dekhne me to or bhi jyada price ki bhi koi dikkat nhi hai accha budget me bike hai lene se pehle sochna nhi pada. Nice mileage or very good price for this bike sahi price me accha mileage mil raha hai or acche look k sath bike sports look dikhne me bhi acchi or chalane ka feel bhi aacha bike superb hai price is very good.Read More5 4
- Refined 155cc beastCompared to other segment bikes its the most aggressive and refined bike I have ever riden, the weight of this bike is so light that even the mentioned torque and bhp seems not to be true, the power delivery of the bike is so responsive and the tech is so advance that the torque push can be felt post 7500 rpm. I own this bike for more than 5 years and never disappointed in this machine, the refinement and reliability of this engine is commendable. Kudos to Yamaha. The comfort level is not that great and wont recommend for pillion either unless you change the seat cushions, rest the riding posture is very comfortable and little bit aggressive which is a positive for cruising and aggressive riding. Overall comfortable and no such complaints for daily commute, for long rides, solo rides are comfortable but pillion rider will feel the discomfort. I would definitely recommend this bike for all the beginners who wants to flaunt the looks and aggression of entry level sports naked, It was my first bike and best decision of my life. Great mileage with ample of power.Read More3
- MT 15 Toruk MactoI always liked naked body bikes, I heard from my friend and did a test drive on my friend's bike, the speed, torque and power I felt while riding it is absolutely fantastic, also though the bike is small in size I easily controlled it, the looks are also very aggressive and cool, pricing is average for this 155cc ranged bike also I felt the gear shifting is excellent and smooth. smooth feelings while riding this bike made me choose it. The ride is very smooth so far, the small size and light weight of this bike is very easy to balance, I felt like it does give good mileage on highway, although the mileage it gives in city must be improved, maintenance is also necessary time to time, The suspension is quite good but on big humps or pot holes it gives a shock of vibration but its alright. Yes, I would recommend this bike to anyone willing to buy a bike under 2lakh and want a bike with excellent powerful performance, mostly those who want to reach destinations faster with a smooth riding experience should choose this bike and I will recommend them.Read More2 1
- Sporty Adventures on Two WheelsI craved a sporty ride for weekend adventures. MT 15’s sleek look and responsive engine called out to me. A short twisty road test confirmed it: sharp braking, smooth acceleration and a perfect lean for corners. It became my go to thrill bike. Riding on twisting roads is exhilarating. Leaning into curves feels alive, throttle responds instantly and brakes are sharp. Even city streets are more fun now. Every ride feels like a mini adventure filled with controlled excitement. Yes perfect for thrill seekers. Aggressive yet manageable MT 15 combines city commuting and weekend fun effortlessly. Anyone loving spirited rides on the twisty roads will enjoy this bike every time when he ride.Read More2
6 out of 6 found this helpful