When we first laid eyes on the Yamaha XSR 155, we knew this motorcycle was something special. In a world where manufacturers often choose between vintage aesthetics and cutting-edge technology, Yamaha has managed to create a bike that beautifully marries both worlds. After spending considerable time with this machine, I can confidently say it’s a motorcycle that will appeal to both seasoned riders and newcomers alike.
First Impressions That Last
The moment you approach the XSR 155, its personality shines through. Drawing inspiration from its bigger siblings in the XSR family, this bike doesn’t try too hard to impress – it simply does. The teardrop fuel tank immediately catches your attention, while the round LED headlight gives it that unmistakable retro character we’ve come to love from Yamaha’s heritage lineup.
What impressed me most was how the designers managed to keep the styling clean without making it look bare. The flat seat design might seem simple, but it perfectly complements the overall aesthetic. You’ll notice the attention to detail in the high-quality finishes and the way every component seems purposefully placed rather than just functional.
Colors That Make a Statement
Yamaha offers the XSR 155 in four distinct color schemes, and honestly, choosing between them might be your biggest challenge. The Premium Grey exudes sophistication, while the White/Red Sporting Heritage variant screams classic racing spirit. If you prefer understated elegance, the Black option won’t disappoint, but I personally find myself drawn to the Green Wanderlust – it’s adventurous without being flashy.
Heart of the Machine
Under that beautiful exterior lies the same proven 155cc engine you’ll find in the R15 V4 and MT-15 V2. This isn’t just recycling – it’s smart engineering. The liquid-cooled single-cylinder unit delivers 19.3 PS of power and 14.7 Nm of torque, which translates to surprisingly spirited performance for daily riding.
What really stands out is how refined this engine feels. The six-speed transmission works seamlessly with the slip-and-assist clutch, making gear changes smooth even in stop-and-go traffic. Whether you’re navigating busy city streets or enjoying an open highway, the power delivery feels linear and predictable.
Modern Tech Meets Classic Appeal
Here’s where the XSR 155 really shines – it doesn’t sacrifice modern conveniences for style. The circular digital instrument cluster provides all the information you need while maintaining that vintage look. The LED lighting setup ensures you’re visible to other road users, which is crucial for safety.
The Deltabox frame, borrowed from Yamaha’s sportier models, provides excellent stability. Combined with the USD front forks and rear monoshock, the suspension setup handles various road conditions with confidence. You’ll appreciate this balance whether you’re commuting daily or exploring weekend routes.
Comfort Where It Counts
One aspect that often gets overlooked in motorcycle reviews is how accessible a bike feels to different riders. The XSR 155’s 810mm seat height strikes a perfect balance – it’s low enough for shorter riders to feel confident while still providing adequate ground clearance for taller individuals.
The riding position feels natural and comfortable, avoiding the extreme forward lean of sports bikes or the laid-back posture of cruisers. This makes it an excellent choice for both short city hops and longer rides.
Value Proposition
With an expected Indian price of around ₹1.80 lakh, the XSR 155 positions itself in an interesting market segment. You’re not just buying transportation – you’re investing in a lifestyle statement that combines practicality with personality.
The Yamaha XSR 155 represents everything we love about modern motorcycling. It proves that you don’t need to compromise between style and substance. Whether you’re a experienced rider looking for something different or a newcomer who wants a bike with character, the XSR 155 delivers on multiple fronts.
This motorcycle reminds us why we fell in love with riding in the first place – it’s not just about getting from point A to point B, but about enjoying every moment of the journey. In our opinion, Yamaha has created something truly special with the XSR 155, and we can’t wait to see how Indian riders embrace this unique offering.