2019 Yamaha MT-15: First impression

Yamaha PH recently launched the all-new 2019 MT-15 in the country. This new motorcycle is targeted to the audience that liked the latest R15 but didn’t make the final decision of bringing it home because of the aggressive nature of the bike. The 2019 Yamaha MT-15 is here with a solution to that problem with an entirely new package that’s definitely going to lure in many potential customers.

The launch took place at the 13th Inside Racing Bike Fest and Trade Show held at the World Trade Centre in Metro Manila. This was a 3-day long fest that started on 22nd March and was organized by ‘Inside Racing Magazine’, one of the leading motorcycle magazines. The 2019 Yamaha MT-15 price is set at Php 159,000. Here is our first impression of this new bike.

Looks

We are familiar with Yamaha’s MT range of products. Motorcycles that fall under this badge tend to stand out for the way they look and perform, and the new MT-15 is no exception. Yamaha has done a tremendous job to make this naked street fighter look like a predator. At the front, the LED daytime running lights give the bike a very aggressive and angry stance. Also, the single LED headlamp located below the LED DRLs completes the predator appearance.

The tank here can carry only 10-litres of fuel, but it sure looks like it can hold much more thanks to its muscular body. It also has integrated air shrouds on either side that not only look cool but also increases the aerodynamic efficiency of the motorcycle. Combine all this with the thick golden USD front forks, and you have got yourself a good looking, naked motorcycle. Of course, the 2019 MT-15 is a naked sibling of the R15, but Yamaha didn’t just removed the fairing and added a few bits. The MT-15 looks adequately designed and built from every angle. Yes, many parts have been borrowed from the R15 which itself is a fab motorcycle.

Engine

One of the main features that you would find in the 2019 Yamaha MT-15 specs sheet is the engine. It is the same 155 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that powers the R15. It produces 19.3 PS of max power at 10k revs and the peak torque of 14.7 Nm kicks in at 8.5k revs. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Yamaha has also included its VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) technology which helps the MT-15 to pull easily even in the low and mid rev range. Apart from this, there is also the assist and slipper clutch that prevents slippage in rough, high rev clutch condition and of course, you can be super aggressive on those downshifts without worrying about losing the gear.

Performance

The Yamaha R15 is a killing machine when it comes to clocking lap times on a closed circuit. However, it tends to tire you out quickly during your normal commutes. This is where naked motorcycles have the advantage. Not only they can set competitive lap times, but can also be very comfortable in the streets. The MT-15 is that kind of a bike. And thanks to the lightweight cast wheels and tires, delta box frame, and USD forks, this bike can handle corners as well. In short, you’ll have a fun time riding this thing around.

Instrument cluster

This is also one of the best features of the 2019 MT-15. It is a fully digital inverted LCD meter which is quite informative. It tells you the speed, rpm, temperature, fuel level, etc. It also features a gear indicator and a gear shift light. Also, the inverted display allows you to read the information easily even in direct sunlight.

The new Yamaha MT-15 is a great package. It has got the genes of the R15 and the design and character of the MT range. With a price of Php 159,000, the MT-15 is one of the best bikes that you can get in this segment. It is now available at all Yamaha dealerships across the country. Yamaha mentions that the new MT-15 design represents the 'Dark Side of Japan' and it pushes you to unleash a persona that takes over the road. Do let us know what you have to say about the MT-15.