Yamaha MT-15 V2 (2025) — Streetfighter Revisited
Yamaha has updated its popular naked / streetfighter model, the MT-15, into the new Version 2.0 (2025). The MT-15 continues to blend aggressive styling with usable performance for urban and occasional highway use. In this article, we explore what’s new, what remains unchanged, performance figures, real-world behavior, and whether it’s worth considering.
What’s New in Yamaha MT-15 V2 2025 / Version 2.0
Yamaha’s “2025 MT-15 Version 2.0” brings a few tech, cosmetic and usability upgrades while retaining the proven core mechanicals:
- The DLX version now gets a colour TFT display with turn-by-turn navigation support (Bluetooth via Yamaha’s Y-Connect).
- The Bluetooth / Y-Connect features are enhanced: functions like maintenance notifications, fuel consumption logs, parking location, malfunction alerts, etc.
- New colour options have been introduced: Ice Storm and Vivid Violet Metallic alongside existing shades.
- The standard (non-DLX) variant also gets a fresh Metallic Silver Cyan colour.
- Importantly: no mechanical changes have been made to the engine, frame, or suspension from the prior MT-15 V2 models.
- The 2025 model is now compliant with OBD2-B norms (India’s emission / diagnostic requirement) and pricing has been adjusted minimally to reflect that.
So, the upgrades are mainly in the electronics, display, connectivity, and aesthetics — rather than in performance or mechanical overhaul.
Price & Variants
- The ex-showroom price in Delhi for 2025 MT-15 V2 standard is ₹1,69,550 and the DLX variant is ₹1,80,500 (Delhi) as per Yamaha’s official site.
- Media announcements cite ₹1.69 lakh for the standard and ₹1.80 lakh for the DLX in India.
- On BikeWale, the price band is shown as ₹1,70,583 to ₹1,80,502 for different versions.
- In Chennai (on-road), the price reportedly starts from ~ ₹1,90,607 (for the standard) to ~ ₹2,11,860 depending on variant.
Because of taxes, registration, and state surcharges, the on-road price will vary significantly by location.
Specifications & Technical Details
Here are the key specifications (as known / carried over) for the MT-15 V2 (2025):
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve, VVA |
| Displacement | 155 cc |
| Maximum Power | 18.1 bhp @ 10,000 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 14.1 Nm @ 7,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed, with Assist & Slipper Clutch |
| Frame / Chassis | Diamond / backbone / perimeter (same as earlier V2) |
| Front Suspension | Inverted front fork (USD fork) |
| Rear Suspension | Mono-shock, linkage |
| Brakes | Front disc, Rear disc; dual-channel ABS (standard) |
| Tyres | Front: 100/80-17 ; Rear: 140/70-17 |
| Fuel Capacity | 10 litres |
| Seat Height | 810 mm |
| Kerb / Wet Weight | ~139 kg (some sources) |
| Top Speed | ~130 km/h (claimed) |
One source (TopSpeed) lists slightly differing power (17 HP) but broadly agrees with engine class and characteristics.
Because the mechanicals are unchanged, it is safe to assume that performance, ride, handling, and behavior remain similar to earlier MT-15 V2 models.
Design, Ergonomics & Features
Styling & Looks
The MT-15 remains a sharp, aggressive streetfighter with minimal bodywork, exposed frame styling and “street naked” aesthetics. The aggressive front mask (LED headlight), sculpted tank extensions, sharp lines and compact tail aid the urban appeal. The new colour options (Ice Storm, Vivid Violet, Silver Cyan) help refresh the visual appeal.
Display & Instrumentation
- The DLX gets a colour TFT display, which supports turn-by-turn navigation, Bluetooth connectivity (Y-Connect), peer ranking and maintenance functions.
- The standard variant retains a more basic display (likely LCD) without the full TFT features.
- The Bluetooth / smartphone integration allows viewing stats such as fuel consumption, alerts, and diagnostics.
Ergonomics & Ride Comfort
- The seat height (810 mm) may feel a bit tall for shorter riders, but overall geometry is sporty yet manageable in city use.
- The riding posture is upright-aggressive (slightly forward leaning) — suited for urban conditions and occasional highway stretches.
- The suspension setup (USD front fork, mono-shock rear) gives a balance between stability and compliance on uneven surfaces.
Safety & Braking
- Dual-channel ABS (front + rear) is standard, ensuring safer braking in wet or variable traction conditions.
- Assist & Slipper Clutch improves downshifts, reduces rear wheel hop under aggressive downshifts, and lightens lever effort.
Performance & Real-World Behavior
Because the MT-15 V2 (2025) retains its earlier mechanicals, performance and behavior are expected to match previous V2 models. Some observations and tests:
- The top speed is claimed to be ~130 km/h.
- In real-world riding (city traffic, stop-and-go etc.), the power delivery is usable and manageable, with relatively smooth throttle response.
- Fuel efficiency (mileage) is a key factor for many riders: several mileage test videos show ~ 59 kmpl for the DLX edition in city conditions.
- Riders’ reviews cite good pickup, smooth ride, and overall comfort over longer distances.
- Some user voices point out that Yamaha’s pricing is a bit premium for the features in the 150cc class:
“So it’s basically a feature loaded expensive bike for a 150cc … My research ended in going for a more heavy built bike like scram 440 … If sporty is the preference then apache it is.”
- Comparisons with rivals: some users say the dual-channel ABS fix (which was a missing point earlier) now makes it much more attractive versus competitor bikes like Apache RTR 200.
Pros
- Aggressive styling and strong streetfighter appeal
- Good electronics upgrade (TFT, Y-Connect, navigation) in DLX
- Reliable engine and known performance
- Safety features (dual ABS + slipper clutch)
- Manageable power for city + highway
Cons / Considerations
- No mechanical upgrade vs earlier V2 → might disappoint those expecting major leaps
- High seat height may be challenging for some
- Mileage in mixed / highway use may be lower than city tests
- Premium pricing in the 150cc / naked-bike segment
- Some missing features (e.g. no quick shifter, limited fairing or wind protection)
Who Should Buy & Alternatives
The 2025 MT-15 V2 is ideal for riders who want a sporty, aggressive-looking naked bike with decent usability, modern electronics (in DLX), and trusted mechanicals. It’s especially appealing to those who favor styling and connectivity, and who will use the bike mostly in city or suburban terrains with occasional highway runs.
However, those wanting more mechanical performance jumps, more touring comfort, or more features may look at alternatives:
- KTM 160 Duke — more aggressive performance, lighter, sharper handling
- Honda Hornet 2.0 — good all-rounder with balanced features
- Apache RTR 200 / 200 4V — more power, more torque
- Yamaha’s own R15 V4 / R15M — if you prefer fairing + sportbike format
Conclusion
The 2025 Yamaha MT-15 V2 (Version 2.0) is a thoughtful incremental update to a strong base model. By retaining proven mechanicals and adding modern electronic upgrades (especially in DLX), Yamaha has kept the appeal alive. While it may not wow with radical changes, it refines the experience and brings connectivity & styling enhancements that matter to many buyers. For those who value reliability, good service network, and Yamaha’s brand backing, it remains a compelling choice in the 150cc / naked bike niche.
