Is Yamaha MT 15 BS6 engine worth the price and hype?

by Ravi Singh Rana Digital Marketer

Mainly known as the streetfighter version of the Yamaha R15 V3, MT 15 bike does feature something glistening. Now as per the government rules applied for upgrading the models to BS6 engine, both R15 and MT-15 have undergone the development to BS6 compliant engine. Furthermore, there is an addition to colour variants.

Overview of MT-15 bike

The pinnacle to 150 cc segment in India, Yamaha MT-15 features liquid-cooled engine. It delivers a maximum power of 18.9 bhp, featuring BS6 compliant engine. The bike has got radial tyre at the rear and the bike has MRF tyres. Based on Yaham's delta box frame, the designing structure of MT 15 BS6 is acquired from that of the MT09 model. It is as much as the mini version of the same.

Why is it expensive?

The pricing of the M-15 has been the debate for a long time now. In August as well, the price of the BS6 version increased to nearly Rs 2000 more.

Firstly, the bike offers commendable racing setup with a radial type situated at the rear. The engine is well advanced and the bike is way ahead of the other 150 cc bikes of the segment.

The fit finish and the quality of the product are to another level. The switches feel sturdy and has good quality. The components of the bike are quite the same as that of the Yamaha R 15 V3.

Also that the bike missed on dual-channel ABS. Taking the second note, Yamaha is offering 2 bikes in a single package. The answer is technology.

How is technology working as an upper hand?

The bike is acquiring the best technology that the brand is producing in India. The variable valve actuation of VVA is the technology that makes the bike into 2.

The VVA gives way to a good top end along with the rev range. Both are pretty strong. The VVA is an instant update to a bigger bike.

During the ride in the city, the bike behaves like a normal 150cc commuter. A good amount of low-end torque to move in stop and go through the traffic. This further makes it very light and you will just be able to move in traffic with clutch movement.

Also, the slipper clutch comes in handy for beginners while downshifting. It does not lock up at the rear wheel in extreme downshifts. Concluding as a whole, you get to acquire a daily commuter which can filter through traffic without effort. It was further given a good mileage if driven at city speeds.

Handling – Not for a beginner

Electronics do not come in handy. The single-channel ABS on the bike refrains stories. You can lock up the rear wheels and some supermoto fun.

The bike is light and nimble. It can flick through corners. The rear sprocket is 4 teeth larger than the one on R15. The bike is easier for wheelies only if the clutch is turned properly.

The rake is also sharper and the bike has the smallest turning radius. Used to the slipped clutch is completely personal.

Comfort – Good for City

Ergonomics of the new bike are very good. The seating position is upright and the handlebars are also upright. The bar is kind of wider in comparison to other commuters.

Seat height seems intimidating in the first place with 810mm but is easier for management as the bike is slim and weighs as less as 138kgs.

The seating is a concern. There is less cushion on the seat which is a source of discomfort on long highway stretches.

The footpegs are slightly rear-set and seem to create inconvenience on long haul rides. It is still better than the ergonomics on the Yamaha R15.

Pillion seat is pretty small, handling towards the forward set and going to be no good for moving around.

The mounting points on the bike are also less. This bike will need to saddle stay to mount luggage. The tank is also fibre and does not have a magnetic tank bag. And it does not come up with wind protection.

Although it is not much of a problem in the city it becomes one in the highway. The bike is capable of doing speeds more than 100 kmph where the wind fatigue cannot be avoided.

Mileage – a Choice

Mileage is something you will want to be ready for. The bike gives way to a dynamic mileage of 39 to 50 km/l. If you are driving between 4000 to 6000 rpm, you will be able to acquire 50 km/l, in case you are revving at high rpm then the mileage gets restricted to 39 km/l. The maintenance of the bike is helpful with the brand offering 5 services free of labour charges.

To conclude, the new MT-15 bike has a blend of beauty and flaws. The bike does represent good ergonomics but has bad seating. The performance is better but 250cc could be a win-win situation. The engine is good for experienced riders and not the beginners.