Yamaha Motors India is readying a new naked street fighter for launch in India. Bookings of this new 150cc bike have already opened at company dealerships even as homologation clearance is awaited. Sources confirm that the launch of new Yamaha MT15 will take place on 15th March, 2019.
2019 Yamaha MT15 is based on the R15 V3 which is on sale in India. It gets distinctive styling and better ergonomics. It has been showcased to dealers to get their feedback. Dealers have also taken a test ride of the motorcycle.
India-spec MT15 is seen with a higher set handlebar and rear set foot pegs (as compared to international spec MT 15), for better riding posture. The MT15 gets a mono-focus LED headlamp and single seat layout. The sculpted 10 liter fuel tank offers better grip for thighs. Features also include a fully digital instrument cluster, 17” 10 spoke alloy wheels with 110/70 section tyre in the front and 140/70 section tyre at the rear.
It measures 2,020 mm in length, 800mm in width and 1,070 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 1,335 mm and gross vehicle weight stands at 288 kgs while ground clearance is at 160mm. Suspension is via conventional fork in the front and monoshock suspension at the rear. Top speed is pegged at 130 kmph while mileage is slated at 35 kmpl in city limits and 45 kmpl on the highway. Color options on the new Yamaha MR15 include Grey-Black, Blue-Black, All Blue and All Black.
Entering the 150cc premium segment, the new Yamaha MT15 will get the same engine powering the R15 V3 which includes a 155cc, single cylinder, SOHC, liquid cooled engine offering 19.3 hp power at 10,000 rpm and 15 Nm torque at 8,500 rpm mated to a 6 speed transmission. This engine is the most advanced engine in the segment. It gets variable camshaft timing. It also gets a DiaSIL cylinder. The engine is also equipped with fuel injection, four valve head with single overhead camshaft. Dual channel ABS will be offered as standard.
In terms of pricing, the Yamaha MT15 could be cheaper than the R15 which is priced at Rs.1.39 lakhs for the ABS variant. Expect pricing to be in the Rs 1.2 lakh range. Once launched, the MT15 will rival the likes of KTM 125 Duke, Bajaj Pulsar NS200, Suzuki Gixxer, etc.
