Have you noticed the Yamaha ad on our website? It’s for the awesome-looking MT-15 and it’s been here since February 4—or five days before the unveiling of the YZF-R3
In employing a unique campaign strategy such as this, is Yamaha PH saving the best for last?
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With the phenomenal success of the MT-09 and MT-07 ‘hyper naked’ bikes in the local market, Yamaha Motor Philippines wouldn’t dare ignore the MT-15. It’s true there’s also a clamor for the mighty MT-10 to show up here, but the company knows that small-displacement machines like the MT-15 attract more buyers than big bikes do.
By the middle of March 2019, we are expecting the new MT-15 to join the free-for-all in the small street-bike category. This naked version of the Yamaha YZF-R15
The MT-15 ad on our website shows that the version we’ll get has the chassis and suspension setup (upside-down fork and single rear shock absorber) of the R15. It’s a far cry from the model’s Indian version, which uses a conventional telescopic fork in an obvious move to lower costs. Our crystal ball shows that PH units will be equipped with an upside-down fork and a link-type
Similar to Thailand’s version, the local MT-15 will get a slipper clutch as well as front and rear disc brakes. Sorry, no ABS for the PH models.
And here’s platform and parts sharing at its finest: The MT-15 also gets the same all-digital instrument panel as the R15, featuring a gear-position indicator and a shift light. The digital dashboard is positioned at the center unlike in the MT-09, where it’s mounted toward the right of the handlebars.
Viewed from a distance, the MT-15 can be mistaken for the MT-09 as their seat contours and the design of their tank air-vent attachments are similar. That said, the stylish side panels on the tail end of the MT-15 distinguish it from the MT-09 and the MT-07. What also makes the 2019 MT range exciting is a new color scheme called ‘Ice Fluo.’ Like the bigger MT-09, the MT-15 comes in at least three cool color combinations: Ice-Gray body with fluorescent red wheels, the trendsetting Matte Blue finish with striking electric-yellow wheels, and badass Tech Black.
Powering the MT-15 is a 155cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine equipped with Variable Valve Actuation technology. Maximum power is 19hp at 10,000rpm, and peak torque is 14.7Nm at 8,500rpm. Of note, this model is the only one in the MT lineup to come with a factory-installed engine sump guard.
After our relentless prodding, Yamaha PH senior marketing manager Ryan Jude Camus eventually gave in and whispered to us the SRP of the new MT-15: P159,000. Now, are you ready to make a reservation?
