Hong Leong Yamaha Motor launched the new and improved 2022 Yamaha YZF-R15M in Malaysia.

According to Yamaha's press release, the YZF-R15M or just R15M in short, was "derived from the styling and race technology of the Yamaha YZF-R1M." And in some ways, we would agree because the R15M did look like its bigger cousin at a distance, so much so that we had to do a double take.

Features

• 155cc, liquid-cooled, single overhead cam, fuel-injected engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA).
• Quickshifter (upshifts only) and assist & slipper clutch attached to the 6-speed gearbox.

• Tractor control system (TCS).
• ROAD and TRACK riding modes. 
• Dual-channel ABS as standard, which earned it a five-star safety rating fromMalaysian Motorcycle Assessment Programme (MyMAP) under the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS).

• YZR-M1 inspired upper triple.
• Engine cut off switch installed on the sidestand.
• Compact bi-functional LED headlight.

• New LCD instrument panel that displays both STREET mode and TRACK Mode.
• Yamaha Y-Connect feature.

Design

• Yamaha calls them "highly dynamic fairings" with a slim frontal area which blends into the M1-styled bubble windscreen.

• The new fairing and windscreen is said to channel wind blast away from the rider when he is in full racing tuck.
• Carbon-like seat cover material.

As with Yamaha's model designations, the "M" signifies a much more advanced model over the standard model. As such, its renewal is not just skin deep but extends to several components, as well, apart from the engine and frame. We took a short ride around the drift track at the Pittstop Cafe yesterday and it was immediately clear that the seating position is much more relaxed. But it was the suspension that impressed the most. While the "standard" R15's rear suspension kicked hard over undulated road surfaces, the R15M's was buttery smooth.

We cannot wait to test it in earnest.

Owning a new Yamaha YZF-R15M will also automatically enrols the owner in the exclusive M-CRU membership programme. The M-CRU membership allows members to participate in various events such as Exclusive Track Days, Advanced Riding Courses, the Special MotoGP Convoy Experience as well as able to own M-CRU members-only merchandise.

The new Yamaha YZF-R15M is featured in 2 iconic colors, namely Signature M and Monster Energy Edition.

The new Yamaha YZF-R15M will be available at all authorized Yamaha dealers nationwide on June 30, 2022 with a recommended retail price of RM 14,998, excluding registration fees and
insurance coverage. In addition to this, every new owner of the Yamaha YZF-R15M model will receive a special M-CRU mystery gift box and a safety disc lock with their purchase.