Yamaha MT-15 based retro-styled XSR155 launched in Thailand

- Launched in Thailand at 91,500 baht (converts to Rs 2.1 lakhs)

- Smallest offering in Yamaha’s Sport Heritage range

- Likely to be showcased during the 2020 Auto Expo

Yamaha has expanded its global portfolio by introducing the new retro-styled XSR155 in the international market. Based on the underpinnings of the Thai-spec MT-15, the motorcycle made its first debut in the Thailand market carrying a sticker price of 91,500 baht which converts to about Rs 2.1 lakhs in Indian currency.

The XSR155 joining the portfolio is the smallest offering in Yamaha’s Sport Heritage series which comprises of similarly styled models like the XSR700 and XSR900. Following a retro design theme, the XSR115 features a round LED headlamp held by brushed metal finish brackets, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, ribbed and tan-coloured flat seat and a circular tail lamp at the rear. To keep with the theme, the bike also features a circular but full-digital instrument console positioned above the single-piece low-rise handlebar and a megaphone-styled exhaust canister finished in matte black with a perforated shield. Overall the motorcycle follows a minimalistic look to bring about the best of retro appeal.

Since the XSR115 borrows its underpinnings from the Thai-spec MT-15, it shares a majority of its components including the chassis, motor and other cycle parts. Powering the XSR115 is the same 155cc single-pod liquid-cooled motor equipped with VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) tech. The motor is capable of producing 19bhp and 14.7Nm and is mated to a six-speed gearbox assisted by a slip-and-assist clutch.

For cycle parts, the retro bike features inverted forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear to take care of damping duties. Braking, on the other hand, is done by disc brakes at both ends assisted by dual-channel ABS. Besides that, on the dimensions front, the XSR115 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1330mm which is 5mm less than the MT-15. Even the ground clearance has been increased by 15mm which now stands at 170mm. Lastly, considering the premium suspension components and die-cast aluminium swingarm, the motorcycle tips the scale at 134kg.

Now, Yamaha already has the fully-faired YZF-R15 V3 and the naked MT-15 in its Indian portfolio. Both motorcycles miss out on the inverted forks while the MT-15 also losses out of the aluminium swingarm. Expect the XSR155 to undergo a similar cost-cutting procedure in order to price the bike competitively in the market. While Yamaha retails the MT-15 at Rs 1.36 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi), expect the XSR155 to carry a small premium when launched in India. Yamaha India is likely to bring the XSR115 to Indian shores towards the end of 2019 or at the upcoming 2020 Auto Expo.