Yamaha’s Neo-Retro Vision Comes to India

After months of speculation and spy shots, Yamaha Motor India has finally taken the wraps off the Yamaha XSR 155 motorcycle, which bridges the gap between retro looks and modern technology. First showcased globally in Thailand, the XSR 155 forms part of Yamaha’s “Sports Heritage” lineup, drawing inspiration from the bigger XSR 700 and XSR 900.

The bike has already gained a strong following in Southeast Asian markets for its mix of classic design and R15-grade mechanical. Now, in late 2025, Yamaha has brought the same concept to India, offering enthusiasts a neo-retro motorcycle that retains the DNA of Yamaha’s famed R15 and MT-15, but with timeless styling.

The launch marks Yamaha’s entry into India’s neo-retro roadster segment, an increasingly popular category as riders seek motorcycles that offer personality and lifestyle appeal beyond mere commuting.

According to India Today, the Yamaha XSR 155 has been launched at an introductory price of ₹ 1,49,990 (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Key Highlights & Specifications

The Yamaha XSR 155 shares its foundation with the R15 V4 and MT-15 V2, meaning it uses Yamaha’s proven Deltabox frame and the same high-performance 155 cc liquid-cooled, 4-valve engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA).

Here are the main specifications of the new Yamaha XSR 155:-

• Engine: 155 cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve
• Power Output: 18.4 PS @ 10,000 rpm
• Torque: 14.2 Nm @ 7,500 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with assist & slipper clutch
• Frame: Deltabox frame (shared with R15/MT-15)
• Front Suspension: Upside-Down (USD) telescopic forks
• Rear Suspension: Linked mono-shock
• Brakes: Front 282 mm / Rear 220 mm disc with dual-channel ABS
• Tyres: 17-inch alloys with radial rear tyre
• Kerb Weight: ~140 kg
• Fuel Tank: 10 litres
• Seat Height: 810 mm
• Colors: Metallic Grey, Vivid Red, Greyish Green Metallic, and Metallic Blue

Design and Styling

The most striking aspect of the Yamaha XSR 155 is its design. Yamaha has perfectly balanced heritage cues with modern craftsmanship, creating a motorcycle that looks vintage yet feels thoroughly 2025.

Key Design Elements:

• Round LED Headlamp: A fully LED unit housed in a classic circular shell.
• Teardrop Fuel Tank: Evokes old-school café-racer styling while blending into the Deltabox frame.
• Single-Piece Seat: Flat and cushioned, offering both style and comfort for city and highway use.
• Round LCD Instrument Cluster: Minimal yet functional, with digital speedometer, gear indicator, fuel gauge, and trip info.
• Brushed-Aluminium Side Panels & Tank Straps: Add a rugged, premium character.
• Four Elegant Colour Options: Metallic Grey, Vivid Red, Greyish Green, and Yamaha Racing Blue.

Yamaha is also offering two official accessory kits for customization:

• Scrambler Kit – Raised handlebars, off-road styled seat, block-pattern tyres.
• Café Racer Kit – Bar-end mirrors, ribbed seat, and small fairing for a classic café-racer silhouette.

Performance and Ride Experience

The 18.4 PS engine in the XSR 155 is a proven unit from the R15 lineage with refinement and mid-range punch. The VVA system delivers consistent power at both low and high revs, making it suitable for both city commutes and weekend rides.

• City Riding: Smooth throttle response and light clutch make it easy to handle daily traffic.
• Highway Cruising: Capable of comfortable 100 km/h cruising with enough mid-range for overtakes.
• Handling: XSR 155, thanks to its Deltabox frame and USD forks, handles well and remains stable even around tight bends.
• Braking & Safety: Dual-channel ABS provides dependable braking, while traction control adds an extra layer of safety on slippery roads.

Although the 10-litre tank limits long-range touring, Yamaha’s emphasis is clearly on urban practicality and short adventure runs.

Competition & Rivalry

The Yamaha XSR 155 enters a competitive, style-driven segment. Direct and indirect rivals include:

• Bajaj Pulsar N150 / N160 — More performance-oriented, but lacks the retro styling.
• TVS Ronin 225 — Larger engine, similar neo-retro positioning, but at a slightly higher price.
• Royal Enfield Hunter 350 — Classic look and torque-rich engine, but heavier and less agile.
• Honda CB200X / CB300R — Higher-priced, positioned as premium urban roadsters.

Despite the competition, the XSR 155 stands out for its proven mechanicals, lightweight chassis, and modern-retro mix—a combination rare at this price point.

Public Reviews

Enthusiasts and media outlets have largely praised the Yamaha XSR 155 for its styling, performance, and build quality. Social media buzz indicates high interest among younger riders and design enthusiasts.

What Riders Love:

• Neo-retro styling that stands apart from mainstream bikes
• R15’s refined and reliable engine
• Light and nimble feel
• Good balance between city agility and highway stability
• Attractive pricing given the premium features

Minor Criticisms:

• Limited fuel-tank capacity for touring
• Slightly firm seat over long rides
• The rear seat is not ideal for pillion comfort

Outlook

Yamaha may expand the XSR line in India if the 155 performs well. The company could introduce:

• XSR 300 or XSR 700 (global models adapted for India)
• Special Editions or Custom Kits for the XSR 155
• Yamaha-branded accessories (helmets, jackets, and touring gear) to reinforce the lifestyle positioning

Analysts expect strong sales in metro and tier-1 cities where retro-modern design appeals most. The success of the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 has proven there’s space for such style-centric motorcycles under ₹ 2 lakh.

If Yamaha ensures widespread availability, quality service, and continuous engagement with riders’ communities, the XSR 155 could become one of the most iconic 150 cc bikes of this decade.

CONCLUSION

The Yamaha XSR 155 is a breath of fresh air in India’s sub-200 cc segment: a motorcycle that perfectly marries retro design with modern reliability. It offers a fun-to-ride package, solid build quality, and accessible performance wrapped in a head-turning design.

This bike serves as an interesting yet very functional alternative to the market for urban riders who simply yearn for something different. A combination of proven R15 performance, dual-channel ABS, traction control, plus stunning aesthetics, cements this as arguably one of the most desirable motorcycles of 2025.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer looking for a fashionable all-rounder or a seasoned enthusiast wanting a second motorcycle with character, the Yamaha XSR 155 deserves serious consideration.

For: Tata Motors Commercial Vehicle Stock