The Yamaha NMAX 125cc scooter was launched in Japan in 2016, equipped with the BLUE CORE engine, which delivers both driving pleasure and "fuel efficiency/environmental performance" at a high level. The NMAX155ABS was introduced in 2017 with a 155cc engine displacement while maintaining the NMAX's chassis structure.
New colors have been added for the 2023 model year, bringing the total to four colors.
The 125cc class scooters are very popular around the world as motorcycles that are easy to handle with a lightweight and compact chassis and automatic transmission (AT), and offer excellent storage space and economy.
The NMAX155 was launched in Japan in 2017 as a model with a 6 mm larger bore (inside diameter) of the BLUE CORE engine from the 125 cc NMAX to increase its displacement to 155 cc, making it suitable for highway driving. The body size is the same as the NMAX, and it is equipped with the latest emission countermeasures, Variable Valve Actuation, ABS, and traction control while maintaining the same 131 kg vehicle weight as the NMAX and keeping the lightweight, compact, and easy-to-maneuver body of the NMAX. The lightweight, compact, easy-to-maneuver chassis of the NMAX has been retained.
Since its launch in 2017, the model has undergone color changes every year. In 2022, the engine internals will be changed to include a Smart Motor Generator for quiet engine starting, a Stop & Start System that contributes to lower fuel consumption, a new frame, and optimized front and rear suspension, The new model is equipped with a new frame, optimized front and rear suspension, and a smartphone integration function. The latest 2023 model has no change in the main specifications, but the smartphone linkage is no longer supported.
The body of the NMAX 155 inherits the dynamic design of the MAX series, with its twin headlamps and boomerang motif side covers, and has the intrepid styling typical of Yamaha's sports scooters. In addition to the matte dark green shown in the image, a total of four colors are available: matte dark gray, and the new colors white and red.
The 3 x 2 binocular headlamps and position lamps are LED, while the indicator lights use bulbs.
Tail lamps and stop lamps are LED, while indicator lights are bulbs but also have good visibility. Hazard functions are also provided.
The LCD instrument panel displays speed, clock, remaining fuel, water temperature, and battery voltage. There is no tachometer display, but the word "VVA," which indicates that the cam has switched to medium to high-speed use when the rpm exceeds 6000, is displayed to the right of the remaining fuel level.
The display on the instrument panel is switched by a switch on the left side of the steering wheel. Switches for the high/low headlamps, turn signals, and horns are located on the left side of the steering wheel.
On the right side of the steering wheel are the on/off switch for the Stop & Start System (idling stop), hazard lamp, and starter.
Incidentally, restarting from an idle stop is smooth and quiet.
Despite its compact body, it is equipped with double seats that provide ample living space.
The under-seat trunk has a capacity of approximately 23 liters and a maximum load capacity of 5 kg. It can hold one full-face helmet and rainwear.
Check the foot grounding of NMAX155!
The rider is 172 cm tall, and the seat height is 765 mm, allowing the rider to place his/her soles flat on the seat for good leg room. The seat feels a little tight under the feet, but it is not cramped, and the rider can easily hold the vehicle at the ankles.
When I put both feet on the ground, the kakato floated, but I did not feel uneasy when stopping because of the light weight of the vehicle.
The rider is 156 cm tall, but even if he sits without shifting his hips, he will naturally find an upright riding position with his upper body upright.
They will be on their toes, but they are not worried about losing their balance thanks to the lightweight body of the vehicle.
Increased displacement makes nimble driving even more nimble!
By increasing the displacement of the NMAX, which is known for its nimble performance, by 30cc, the NMAX 155 also increases torque and power, improving acceleration throughout the entire range. It also has even more room to lead the flow of traffic.
The NMAX 155 will adopt the Smart Motor Generator in 2022, which allows the engine to be started and restarted quietly with just one push of the cell switch, without the squealing sound of a conventional cell motor. It also has good starting performance, and the more you use it, the more you will find it convenient.
The BLUE CORE engine also complies with the latest emission regulations by optimizing the intake/exhaust system and injection settings for 2022. The 2023 model is unchanged, but the engine still delivers responsive acceleration from the moment the throttle is opened, and thanks to the effect of the VVA, smooth acceleration is maintained up to high rpm.
The NMAX 155's body size and weight are identical to those of the 125cc NMAX, so it is just as easy to maneuver in city riding. The under-seat trunk has a high storage capacity, making it quite easy to use as a commuter. The increased displacement of 155 cc is an advantage for highway driving, but the increased torque and power can be felt as a better response, allowing the rider to enjoy more crisp machine control throughout the entire range, and the added speed to the already nimble ride is an even greater advantage. I thought it was a great benefit.
The bore x stroke was changed from 52.0 x 58.7 mm to 58.0 x 58.7 mm, maximum output was increased from 12 PS/8000 rpm to 15 PS/8000 rpm, and maximum torque was increased from 1.1 kgf/m/6000 rpm to 1.4 kgf/m/6500 rpm. The VVA switches from a low-speed to a mid-to-high-speed cam at 6000 rpm, but it is smooth without vibration or abruptness. The radiator uses a bypass thermostat to circulate coolant according to the water temperature, which allows for a short warm-up time.
Smart Motor Generator system integrates the engine starting motor and generator functions. The motor generates electricity as a generator when operating, and directly rotates the crankshaft when starting the engine. This system contributes to quiet engine startup with no squealing sound.
Wheels are 13 inches in front, and the diameter of the front brake disc is φ230 mm. Both front and rear tires are equipped with Dunlop SCOOT SMART tires, which provide reliable grip even on wet road surfaces. Both front and rear are equipped with ABS.
The rear brake disc is 230 mm in diameter and the wheels are 13 inches in diameter, identical to the front. When signs of rear wheel idling are detected, a traction control function is installed to support smooth starting and driving by integrated control of ignition timing and fuel injection.
The power is turned on by holding the smart key in the smart key communication area and pushing and turning the main switch of the vehicle. The main switch can also be used to lock the steering wheel, unlock the trunk under the seats, and unlock the gas tank.
A DC connector for 12V is provided on the left side of the accessory compartment. The maximum load capacity is 1 kg and can hold a 600 ml PET bottle. The right side has a lid with a maximum load capacity of 0.3 kg.
The fueling port is located on the upper surface of the center tunnel. The tank capacity is approximately 7.1 liters of regular unleaded fuel.
Easy to handle and agile at the same time
Although a slight vibration of the chassis could be felt when idling, it was not bothersome when the rpm increased, and rather, the acceleration was pleasantly smooth with good extension from low speeds. The front wheels are 13 inches, which allows for small turns and light handling, but the solid frame gives the vehicle a sense of stability, and the front wheels easily convey a sense of ground contact. The vehicle's behavior is easy to understand even when accelerating up to high speeds, and the good maneuverability of the vehicle allows the driver to enjoy the agile acceleration that comes with the increased displacement.
While the 125cc NMAX is capable of delivering both the driving pleasure and fuel efficiency/environmental performance typical of the MAX series, the NMAX 155 offers the agility of a scooter with the ease of handling and convenience of a scooter, and is the fastest in town, with no clutch operation required. It is recommended for riders who want to step up from a 125cc scooter or downsize from a big bike to enjoy a simple ride, as it offers a sportier ride in a wide range of situations, including on the highway.
Front suspension with optimized setting by adjusting the balance with the frame. It contributes to light and precise handling.
Rear shock with the balance between spring constant and damping force adjusted through repeated actual driving tests. Preload can be adjusted in two levels: standard and hard.
Major Specifications of the 2023 Yamaha NMAX155
Overall Length x Overall Width x Overall Height: 1935 x 740 x 1160mm
Wheelbase: 1340mm
Seat height: 765mm
Weight: 131 kg
Engine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke SOHC 4-valve single-cylinder 155cc
Maximum output: 15 PS at 8000 rpm
Maximum torque: 1.4kgf-m/6500rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 7.1 liters
Transmission: V-belt continuously variable/Automatic
Brakes: F=disc, R=disc
Tires: F=110/70-13, R=130/70-13
Price: (approx.) 2866 USD
