Yamaha WR155R

In terms of dimensions, the Yamaha WR155R measures 2,145 mm in length, 840 mm in width, 1,200 mm in overall height, and 880 mm in seat height. It has a 1,430 mm wheelbase and an impressive 245 mm minimum ground clearance, which allows this dual-sport motorcycle to confidently take on rocky and muddy trails.

The Yamaha WR155R features a sleek, bold design, which tells you that it is not playing games. It has an assertive-looking front end, accentuated by a sharp beak. At night, it has an assertive flare courtesy of its bright halogen headlight along with indicator lights. On the sides, it comes with bright-coloured, sporty graphics, which give its overall appearance a motorsport vibe. This dual-sport motorcycle runs on a 21-inch wheel at the front and an 18-inch at the rear. 

Similar to its front end, its rear also looks very sharp and is illuminated by a bulb-type taillight and indicator lights as well. It comes with a fully-digital instrument panel that displays the odometer, speedometer, tachometer, tripmeter, and fuel gauge. Its saddle is not the plushiest out there, but it still offers decent support for both the rider and the pillion. However, due to its very high seat height, riders under 6ft might find its saddle a bit uncomfortable on longer rides.

In terms of suspension, the Yamaha WR155R utilizes a combination of a Telescopic Fork at the front and a Swingarm at the rear. This suspension setup partnered with its semi-double cradle frame allows this dual-sport motorcycle to deliver top-notch stability regardless if you are braving the trail or filtering through tight city traffic. Additionally, since its suspension setup is well-tuned for comfort, it can effectively absorb bumps and potholes, allowing you and your pillion to have a pleasant and very pliant riding experience. All in all, this is the type of bike that can handle light to moderate off-roading, while remaining refined and very usable for city commuting.

The Yamaha WR155R is powered by a 155-cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve, single-cylinder engine that has a maximum power output of 16.7 PS and a maximum torque of 14.3 Nm. It comes mated to a 6-speed constant mesh (manual) transmission gearbox.

Equipped with Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation, its engine delivers smooth yet punchy power, allowing this bike to rev freely into the higher RPM range. Off-road, this can easily take on steep and unpleasant trails. Meanwhile, on-road, you will be able to confidently overtake slower vehicles with this bike. Among the locally-available 155-cc bikes, this can stand out in terms of power and speed. And yet, it remains efficient for everyday use thanks to Yamaha’s fuel injection system. 

In terms of safety, the Yamaha WR155R is equipped with an engine check warning and a pass switch. This dual-sport motorcycle comes with hydraulic single disc brakes both at the front and rear. Although its braking setup does not come with an anti-lock braking system, its double disc brakes offer a responsive stopping power, which ensures that you and your passenger are safe at all times.

In my opinion, the Yamaha WR155R is among the locally available dual-sport motorcycles that deliver the most value for money. It is extremely capable off-road and impressively usable for daily road cruising. That said, its versatility justifies its price point within the local market.