Lightweight naked bike battle: Suzuki GSX S150 vs. Yamaha MT15

While most Filipino motorcycle buyers think of models like the Suzuki Raider and the Yamaha Aerox when they hear 150 cubic centimeter (cc) models, others recall larger and beefier models that blend the ideal balance between fuel efficiency and a wider, more aggressive body.

On that note, we take a look at two models that rightfully dominate the lightweight naked bike category — the Suzuki GSX S150 and Yamaha MT15.

The former descends from a storied sporty lineage while the other emerges to represent the brand’s retro-modern offerings. That said, we pit the two models together to see which would best suit your budget, style, and riding needs.

This is the duel between the Suzuki GSX S150 and the Yamaha MT15.

Body: Suzuki GSX S150

The body of the Suzuki GSX S150 combines the right amount of lines and curves. As a result, the motorcycle offers a sporty and bold appeal that many riders could relate to. At its front is a multi-angled headlamp housed in a large and wide cowling. It also sports a decent-sized windshield that does more for the GSX S150 in terms of looks than in functionality. To each of its sides are protruding turn signals accompanied by side mirrors that extend to the far side of the handlebars.

Under the front fascia is the Suzuki GSX S150’s front fender. Here, one will also find its long telescopic front suspension that is paired with a 17-inch wheel wrapped with 90/80 tubeless tires.

In the middle section of the Suzuki GSX S150 is an athletic-looking body with a fair amount of fairing. The panels come with defined angles and sexy curves that further emphasize the sporty nature of the GSX S150.

Notable is its reasonably-sized fuel tank that is beautifully proportionate to the exposed engine. The underside of which has a protective cover not only to safeguard the powerplant but also to add some level of aerodynamic property to the two-wheeled steed.

The flanks of the Suzuki GSX S150 also feature metal foot pegs for both the rider and the pillion passenger, a sporty muffler, and decent saddles.

At the back of the Suzuki GSX S150 is a sharp-looking tail. One will find here a highly visible lamp as well as a fender that extends far to the rear. Here, the two turn signals are located together with a small reflector and the motorcycle’s plate number holder.

Under the said fender is a swing arm-type suspension combined with a 17-inch wheel with 130/70 tubeless tires.

Other notable exterior features of the Suzuki GSX S150 are listed below:

• Full LED headlight
• Fully digital instrument cluster
• One-action key shutter
• Angular side mirrors

Body: Yamaha MT15

The Yamaha MT15 is a middleweight bike with a heavyweight attitude. That’s because it packs plenty of eye-catching exterior features that simply make this motorcycle a looker, despite its small displacement mill.

At the fore is a mask-like fascia with a two-part headlamp allowing for an aggressive character. It lacks a windshield but makes up for it with its powerful profile with two short turn signals as well as two long side mirrors that also extend to the ends of the bike’s handlebars.

Below is a gold upside-down telescopic fork. In the middle of which is a front fender that houses a 17-inch wheel shod in 110/70 tubeless tires.

The middle part of the Yamaha MT15 wears a bodywork that further sets it apart from the competition in terms of style. Showing that it is befitting of the attention it gets, the MT15 dons sexy fairings highlighted by its bold air scoops. According to Yamaha, these air scoops not only “emboldens” the motorcycle but also enhances its overall aerodynamics.

Other features on the side of the Yamaha MT15 worthy of noting include the metal “MT” badge, the metal foot pegs for both the rider and the pillion passenger, the modern-looking engine cover, as well as the sexy saddles. It also packs a futuristic-looking exhaust, which simply rounds up the overall appeal of the MT15.

The rear end of the Yamaha MT15 is highlighted by a tapered tail with a modern-looking taillamp on it. And like the Suzuki GSX S150, the Yamaha MT15 also comes with a rear fender that extends far to its rear. On it is the motorcycle’s turn signals and plate holder.

Under the fender is a swing arm-type monocross suspension that holds together a 17-inch wheel shod in 140/70 tubeless rubber.

Other notable features of the Yamaha MT15 are listed below:

• Deltabox frame
• Inverted LCD meter panel
• Unique graphics.

Engine

Powering the Suzuki GSX S150 is a 147.3cc gasoline engine mated to a six-speed return transmission. The water-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, four-valve powerplant is said to make as much as 18.9 horsepower with 14 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque.

The said setup makes the Suzuki GSX S150 a suitable daily driver that can take its owners for long rides with some level of comfort without breaking the bank.

Meanwhile, the Yamaha MT15 is powered by a slightly larger engine with a 155cc displacement and is paired with a six-speed constant mesh transmission. On paper, this setup can put out as much as 19 horses with 14.7Nm of pulling power.

On that note, the Yamaha MT15 is able to dish out more power than its rival, technically equipping it with a better powertrain system to conquer both roads and highways where the motorcycle is allowed.

Here's the engine specs of the Suzuki GSX S150 and the Yamaha MT15 at a glance:

Suzuki GSX S150

• 143.7cc engine
• 18.9 horsepower
• 14 Nm

Yamaha MT15

• 155cc engine
• 19 horsepower
• 14.7Nm

Both the Suzuki GSX S150 and the Yamaha MT15 are slapped with disc brakes, front and back.

Variants and pricing

Suzuki GSX S150: P133,900
Yamaha MT15: P178,000

Verdict

The Suzuki GSX S150 is a decent bike to have thanks to its looks and powertrain setup. Having said that, it is one of the more popular choices for motorcycle buyers looking for a ride in its category.

On the other hand, the Yamaha MT15 will take one’s experience a notch above albeit with a price that matches its look and vibe.

Photos from Suzuki and Yamaha

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