Yamaha XSR 155 – If you’re someone who loves the look of classic motorcycles but still wants all the comforts and performance of a modern-day ride, Yamaha has something special for you. The Yamaha XSR 155 is finally here, and it’s making a serious impression in the neo-retro segment. Built on the same solid platform as the R15 and MT-15, this motorcycle combines heritage design with high-end features, giving today’s riders the best of both worlds.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Yamaha XSR 155 such an exciting option for Indian riders.

Retro Charm with a Contemporary Touch

From the very first glance, the XSR 155 gives off strong vintage vibes. Its round LED headlamp, twin pilot lights, circular LED tail light, and old-school mirrors instantly make it stand out. The classic teardrop-shaped fuel tank, covered in stylish paint options and brushed metal finishes, adds a muscular look while maintaining that retro feel. Even the seat, a ribbed one-piece unit, adds to the bike’s vintage appeal.

But don’t let the design fool you. Despite looking like something from the past, this bike is packed with modern elements. Alloy wheels, full-LED lighting, and quality components across the board make sure it’s no slouch in terms of tech or comfort. Yamaha has done a fantastic job of fusing timeless aesthetics with modern engineering.

Engine That Packs a Punch

Underneath the charming exterior sits a very lively heart. The Yamaha XSR 155 is powered by a 155cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that delivers 19.3 PS of power at 10,000 rpm and 14.7 Nm of torque at 8,500 rpm. That’s pretty impressive for a bike in this category.

The Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology plays a key role in maintaining strong performance across both city and highway speeds. Whether you’re weaving through traffic or cruising on open roads, the engine remains smooth and responsive.

This engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and comes with an assist and slipper clutch. That means lighter clutch action, smoother gear shifts, and added control during hard downshifts — all of which add to the overall riding pleasure.

Ride Quality and Suspension Setup

Yamaha didn’t just focus on looks and engine performance — they also made sure the XSR 155 handles well. Built on a Deltabox frame, the bike feels light and stable, even at higher speeds. It tips the scales at around 134 kg, making it easy to handle in city traffic.

The bike comes with USD (Upside Down) front forks and a rear monoshock, giving it solid suspension travel. This setup ensures you can tackle potholes, speed breakers, and uneven roads without worrying too much about comfort. The overall ride is smooth, composed, and planted.

Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends, backed by a single-channel ABS system. While some might wish for dual-channel ABS, the current setup does a decent job of providing bite and stability under braking, even in wet conditions.

Rider-Friendly Tech and Features

Even though it wears a retro face, the XSR 155 is anything but outdated. It features a fully digital instrument cluster that displays a speedometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, trip meter, and more. It also includes LED headlamps, tail lamps, and indicators, keeping the design modern without losing its old-school charm.

Another plus is the upright riding posture, which offers great comfort for city rides and weekend getaways. The seat height of 810 mm makes it accessible for most riders, even those who aren’t too tall. However, the seat could be a little firmer than expected, especially for long rides or pillion comfort.

Real-World Performance and Usability

On the road, the XSR 155 feels agile and quick. It’s easy to maneuver through traffic and feels stable on highways. The engine has a refined nature and a sporty exhaust note that adds to the fun. The bike can reach a top speed of around 130 kmph and still manages to return a mileage of 45 to 50 km per liter, which is great for both performance lovers and daily commuters.

Whether you’re a college student, a young working professional, or just someone who wants a motorcycle that stands out without compromising on quality, the XSR 155 is a worthy option.

Price and Rivals

Yamaha has priced the XSR 155 between 1.8 lakh to 2.1 lakh rupees (ex-showroom), making it a bit more premium compared to the MT-15. But when you factor in the design, engine refinement, and features, the price feels well justified.

In terms of competition, it faces off with bikes like the KTM Duke 200 (for those wanting more aggressive performance), Honda CB350RS (a larger and heavier option), and Bajaj Pulsar F250 (more budget-friendly but not as refined).

Final Thoughts

The Yamaha XSR 155 is not just a motorcycle — it’s a statement. It blends classic design with modern-day tech and performance, delivering a unique experience that few bikes in this segment can match. If you’re looking for something that’s stylish, fun to ride, and reliable enough for everyday use, the XSR 155 is definitely worth considering.