The engine they share
Both bikes use Yamaha's 155cc liquid-cooled single with VVA (variable valve actuation), a 6-speed gearbox and an assist-and-slipper clutch. Yamaha's own figures put the MT-15 at 19 hp at 10,000 rpm and 14.7 Nm at 8,500 rpm, and the XSR155 a shade under at 18.9 hp and 14.4 Nm at the same engine speeds. That's not a real-world difference you'll feel on the throttle — it's the same engine tuned within a rounding error of itself.
Where they do differ mechanically: the XSR155 carries dual-channel ABS and is about 4 kg heavier at 137 kg, against 133 kg for the MT-15. Both sit on a 810 mm seat and roll on 17-inch wheels front and rear.
Where they actually differ
This is a styling and riding-position decision, not a performance one. The MT-15 is Yamaha's naked streetfighter — minimal bodywork, a narrower tank, and bars set for an aggressive, forward-leaning crouch. The XSR155 is the retro-modern one — round headlight, flat seat, more bodywork, and a riding triangle built to feel relaxed rather than sporty.
Neither is the better bike mechanically. Sit on both before you decide — the engine won't help you choose, but five minutes in the saddle will.
The prices, properly
MT-15 — RM12,498 ex-showroom (Yamaha's last confirmed update)
XSR155 — RM12,998 ex-showroom
Both figures exclude road tax, insurance and registration — add a few hundred ringgit on top for the real on-the-road number, and that varies with your age, your NCD and where the bike sleeps at night. Ask any dealer for the on-the-road figure before you commit to either.
So which one
Buy the MT-15 if you want the sportier riding stance, prefer naked styling, and would rather keep the RM500.
Buy the XSR155 if the retro look is what got your attention and you want the more relaxed reach. Spending RM500 more on a bike you'll enjoy looking at is not a mistake.
Servicing them in Johor Bahru
Same engine family means the same consumables and the same service intervals on our ramp — oil, chain, valve clearances, all identical between the two. Whichever one you buy, budget the same for upkeep.
See what we have in stock — there's a good chance one of these is already on our floor. Related reading: our XSR155 launch coverage and the Y16ZR-R vs XSR155 comparison.
Prices and specifications from Yamaha Malaysia, via paultan.org and Yamaha's own Malaysia site, current as of August 2026. Confirm current pricing and stock before committing.
