Updated 2022 Yamaha MT-15: What we know so far

Yamaha Motor India has discontinued the MT-15 to make way for an updated model. This new version of the YZF-R15-based roadster, which will pack higher-spec hardware, is expected to arrive in the first quarter (April-June) of FY2022-23. Here we tell you everything that we know about the upcoming 2022 Yamaha MT-15.

Improved hardware

The updated MT-15 will pack better hardware over its predecessor. The setup will be similar to the latest iteration of the Yamaha YZF-R15. Thus, the naked roadster will get upside-down front forks instead of conventional units on the discontinued version. The rear, on the other hand, will retain the preload-adjustable monoshock. The braking setup, too, will continue to pack single discs on both ends.

Newer features

The feature list on the 2022 MT-15 is expected to receive a major overhaul. Similar to the fully-faired version, the updated MT-15 should get the safety net of dual-channel ABS and a traction control system. The premium variants may benefit from a quickshifter too. Lastly, the instrument cluster may benefit from Bluetooth connectivity – a feature that we have already seen on several Yamaha products such as the YZF-R15 V4.0, FZ series, and the Fascino 125 Hybrid scooter.

Same design

The design may not receive a major overhaul, and we expect the 2022 MT-15 to retain the projector-style headlight with twin LED DRLs, muscular bodywork, a step-up seat, and a side-slung exhaust. While the styling may not receive a major upgrade, we may see new colours and graphics on the 2022 MT-15.

Engine specifications

The mechanical specifications are expected to be similar to the YZF-R15 V4.0. The BS6-compliant, 155cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine on the YZF-R15 V4.0 is tuned to deliver 18.1bhp at 10,000rpm and 14.2Nm of peak torque at 7,500rpm. We expect to see similar output figures on the MT-15 as well. The motor will retain the six-speed gearbox. The higher variants could get a quickshifter as standard while this feature may be available as an optional extra on the base version.

Expected launch

Yamaha Motor India has already discontinued the previous MT-15 and thus we expect a launch announcement for the updated model very soon. The new version could arrive as early as April 2022. The motorcycle will rival the likes of the KTM 200 Duke and the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V in the Indian market.

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