Yamaha XSR 155

OVERVIEW

PERFORMANCE AND ENGINE

The Yamaha XSR 155 uses a 155cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) and fuel injection. This engine, also found in the Yamaha R15 V4 and MT-15 V2, is known for quick acceleration and a lively feel. It produces 18.4 PS (13.5 kW) at 10,000 rpm and 14.2 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm. This setup gives the XSR 155 strong power for city riding and enough punch for the highway.

The XSR 155 comes with a 6-speed manual transmission and an assist-and-slipper clutch, which makes gear changes smooth and improves control during downshifts. This setup helps the bike feel lively and easy to handle, whether in city traffic or on open roads.

The Yamaha XSR 155 has a top speed of about 114 km/h, which is typical for bikes in this class. It can cruise easily at 90 km/h on highways and go faster if needed. The engine’s quick response makes for fast acceleration and an exciting ride, especially in the mid-range.

MILEAGE AND FUEL EFFICIENCY

The Yamaha XSR 155 offers an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency between 45.5 kmpl and 48.58 kmpl, depending on the source. This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in its class, giving good value to both daily commuters and touring riders.

Real-world user mileage for the Yamaha XSR 155 in India typically ranges from 35 kmpl to 45 kmpl, depending on riding style, traffic conditions, and terrain. The benefit for riders is impressive fuel economy in both urban and highway environments—35-40 kmpl in cities and 40-45 kmpl on highways at moderate speeds. Its efficient engine and lightweight design further contribute to daily cost savings and practicality, making it a fuel-efficient and sensible choice for Indian roads.

FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY

The Yamaha XSR 155 in India comes with a range of modern features and comforts, blending classic style with practical technology.

1. Engine: 155cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder with VVA for 18.4 PS and 14.2 Nm. Responsive and peppy performance.
2. Transmission: 6-speed manual with assist and slipper clutch for smooth shifting and control.
3. Frame: The Deltabox chassis is lightweight, rigid, and agile, providing rider comfort and handling.
4. Suspension: Inverted telescopic front fork and linked monoshock rear for a comfortable ride.
5. Brakes: Front and rear disc brakes with dual-channel ABS for adequate stopping power and control.
6. Electronics: Fully digital LCD cluster, Bluetooth for alerts, hazard lamps, and essential indicators.
7. Lighting: LED headlamp, tail lamp, and DRL merge visibility with retro-modern looks.
8. Ergonomics & Body: Retro-modern minimalist design, circular headlight, 810 mm seat height, 10-litre fuel tank.
9. Customisation: Café racer and scrambler kits with accessories allow for personal styling.
10. Wheels & Tyres: 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless radial tyres offer stability and grip.
11. Colours: Available in Metallic Grey, Vivid Red, Greyish Green Metallic, and Metallic Blue.
12. Other features: Electric start, wet multi-plate clutch, pillion footrests, saree guard, geo-fencing, and vehicle tracking via app.

HANDLING

The XSR 155 is known for its agile and responsive handling, thanks to its light frame and balanced design. Riders find it easy to manoeuvre in city traffic and stay stable on highways. The Deltabox frame, inverted front fork, and linked rear suspension offer a good mix of comfort and control. The 17-inch alloy wheels with wide tubeless tyres give excellent grip for confident cornering.

Riders say the wide handlebars and upright seating help with control and reduce tiredness. The assist-and-slipper clutch also makes gear shifts smoother and handling better, especially in harsh conditions. Overall, the XSR 155 feels nimble and fun to ride on different Indian roads.

STYLING

The Yamaha XSR 155 has a neo-retro design that mixes vintage style with modern touches. Inspired by Yamaha’s history and the Japanese saying on-ko-chi-shin (study the old to learn the new), the bike has a simple but bold look, with a round LED headlamp and a circular digital display.

The sculpted fuel tank has sharp lines that give the bike a strong look while keeping its retro feel. Modern materials, such as fibre-reinforced plastics and metallic finishes, add a premium touch. The single-piece seat with an optional hump adds a sporty vibe. Overall, the design honours Yamaha’s classic bikes and appeals to today’s urban riders in India.

COMFORT

The Yamaha XSR 155 is comfortable for daily commutes and weekend rides, helping reduce tiredness on long trips. Its well-padded seat at 810 mm suits riders of different heights. The upright seating and central footpegs also help reduce strain on the lower back and wrists, making it more comfortable than Yamaha’s sportier bikes.

The suspension does a good job of smoothing out bumps, so city potholes and rough roads are easier to handle. Pillion comfort is decent, with footrests and an optional dual-seat with a hump for a sportier look and better support. The bike also has easy-to-use controls and a clear digital display, making rides more enjoyable.

BUILD QUALITY

The Yamaha XSR 155 stands out for its solid build quality, offering durability and reliability for everyday riding. Its black Deltabox frame is both light and strong, helping the bike stay sturdy over time. The bodywork uses rigid fibre-reinforced plastics that resist minor impacts and give the bike a high-quality finish.

The fit and finish of parts like the instrument console and badges demonstrate Yamaha’s attention to detail and a premium feel. Riders can also customise the bike with official Yamaha Café Racer or Scrambler kits, which are well-made and fit all colour options.

COLOUR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS

The Yamaha XSR 155 comes in four colours, chosen to match different style preferences in the Indian market:

1. Metallic Grey
2. Vivid Red
3. Greyish Green Metallic
4. Metallic Blue

Each colour is chosen to match the XSR 155’s retro-modern style, offering subtle to bold options. The high-quality paint helps the bike stay shiny and last longer.

The Yamaha XSR 155 is sold in a single version with a complete set of features, rather than several trims. This keeps the package focused and well-rounded. Still, riders can customise their bike with Yamaha’s official accessory kits, which include:

1. Café Racer Kit: Includes parts such as a lever guard, café headlight cowl, dual seat assembly with hump, and bracket kits, giving the bike a classic racing look reminiscent of 1960s café racers.
2. Scrambler Kit: Features parts such as bar-end mirrors, fly screen, side number plates, and headlight covers, lending a rugged, off-road-inspired styling.

These kits can be bought separately or in bundles for any of the four colours, so riders can personalise their XSR 155 to fit their style. The main advantage is that you can make the bike your own without changing its performance or technology.

VALUE FOR MONEY AND PRICING

The Yamaha XSR 155 launched in India at an introductory ex-showroom price of ₹ 1,49,990 (Delhi), making it a premium yet accessible option in the neo-retro segment. This price puts it in competition with both premium commuter and retro-styled bikes in India.

The Yamaha XSR 155 offers excellent value by combining modern performance and technology with classic retro styling. Its refined 155cc liquid-cooled VVA engine (also used in the R15 and MT-15) delivers strong performance on city and highway rides, while offering good fuel efficiency of about 45.5 kmpl (ARAI).

Features like dual-channel ABS, slipper clutch, LED lights, a digital display with Bluetooth, traction control, and custom kits make the XSR 155 stand out in its price range. Its light frame, quality finish, and good handling add to its appeal, making it a strong competitor against bikes that usually focus on either performance or style, but not both.

The Yamaha XSR 155 competes in a growing neo-retro and premium commuter motorcycle segment with several noteworthy competitors:

1. Royal Enfield Hunter 350
2. TVS Ronin
3. Jawa 42
4. Hero Xtreme 250R
5. Yamaha MT-15 Version 2.0
6. Yamaha R15S