The morning mist was just lifting off those twisting Lavasa roads when I fired up the 2025 Yamaha MT-15 V2. That signature growl from its 155cc motor had a deeper, throatier edge this time — hinting right away that this update’s about more than a new paint job.
Yamaha didn’t mess with what works; instead, they tightened things up where it counts, making this streetfighter sharper, quicker, and a better fit for India’s changing riding scene.
After three packed weeks of battling Mumbai’s traffic, carving through the Ghats, and even a flat-out track day at Madras Motor Sports Club, here’s the lowdown on the new MT-15 V2.
Design
The MT-15 V2 cranks up Yamaha’s “Dark Side of Japan” vibe. Up front, the new split LED headlamp with those sinister brow DRLs gives it a proper predator stance. The sculpted fuel tank and sharper radiator shrouds make it look brawnier, while those layered side panels add depth without making things fussy.
Around the back, the sleeker tail section and Y-shaped LED taillight are borrowed straight from its bigger MT siblings. New colorways like Cyber Gray, Storm Black, Ice Fluo, and Dark Matt Blue bring fresh attitude. The result? Tougher, cleaner, and unmistakably an MT.
Ergonomics
The riding position keeps things sporty, but it’s a touch more forgiving now. A taller, closer handlebar paired with a reworked, comfier seat eases wrist strain on long city rides. The rear-set foot pegs remain, with rubber inserts to cut down vibration on highways.
An 800mm seat height strikes a solid balance for most riders, and thanks to the slim midsection, ground reach at traffic lights is hassle-free.
Wind protection? Barely there — but that’s part of the naked bike charm.
Performance
Yamaha’s familiar 155cc VVA engine gets light but meaningful upgrades. Power’s now at 19.3 PS with 14.7 Nm of torque. On paper, not a huge leap — but out on the road, it feels livelier, especially in the midrange. Overtakes are quicker, gaps in traffic easier to grab.
Tweaks to the intake, cam profiles, and ECU tuning smooth out throttle response and refine power delivery. Gear shifts are crisper too, and the lighter clutch makes Mumbai’s stop-start chaos a little easier to live with. It’ll hit 0-60 km/h in about 4.2 seconds and push close to 130 km/h at the top end.
Fuel efficiency’s still rock solid — expect 47-49 km/l in mixed conditions.
Handling
This is where the MT-15 V2 comes alive. Minor tweaks to the rake and trail have sharpened its already nimble handling. USD front forks (now preload adjustable!) and a retuned rear monoshock soak up potholes without punishing your spine.
Braking gets a serious bump with a bigger 282mm front disc, radial caliper, dual-channel ABS, and a new Y-spoke wheel design that’s both lighter and better looking. The MRF Zapper tires stick confidently in both dry and wet, giving the bike a planted, predictable feel in corners.
Features
The negative LCD dash now hooks up with Yamaha’s Y-Connect app, giving you call alerts, ride stats, navigation cues, and service updates. A discreet USB-C charger under the seat is a welcome addition. And here’s the big one — traction control.
Yep, on a 155cc bike. It has two modes and can be turned off, and it actually works when things get sketchy.
Full LED lighting, adjustable suspension, and updated ABS software round off a seriously impressive features list for the class.
Value
At ₹1.75 to ₹1.83 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s on the pricier end of its category — but with everything Yamaha’s packed into this update, it earns its price tag. Sure, bikes like the Apache RTR 160 4V and Pulsar NS160 offer plenty of bang for your buck, but the MT-15 V2 combines edgy design, cutting-edge tech, and scalpel-sharp handling in a way none of them quite manage.
If you’re after a streetfighter that’s aggressive, packed with features, and still easy to live with day to day — this one’s it.
FAQs
What is the top speed of MT-15 V2?
It can hit around 130 km/h in ideal conditions.
Does the MT-15 V2 get traction control?
Yes, with two modes and an option to switch it off.
How many color options are available?
Four — Cyber Gray, Dark Matt Blue, Storm Black, Ice Fluo.
What’s the fuel efficiency of MT-15 V2?
It delivers about 47-49 km/l in mixed riding.
Is the clutch lighter than the old model?
Yes, clutch effort is reduced by 15% for easier operation.
