2021 Yamaha NMax 155: First impression

When it comes to maxi-scooters, the Yamaha NMax 155 is one such option that is reliable, stylish, and well-priced. Available in the global market since 2015, the scooter received yet another refresh in December last year. However, the latest iteration loaded with lots of styling upgrades and updated tech took a complete one year to reach the Malaysian shores.

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor launched the updated 2021 Yamaha NMax 155 yesterday in the country, with a new price sticker of RM 8,998 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration fee). Here we bring all the details of the new NMax 155, have a look.

2021 Yamaha NMax Design

Continues to impress the young riders with its sporty styling, the new Yamaha NMax design has been well revised. Upfront, it boasts a new 6-bulb LED headlight cluster with four low beam bulbs and two high beam bulbs at the bottom. The cluster also incorporates LED daytime running lights enhancing the overall visual appeal of the scooter. The large windscreen above the headlight that not only cuts away wind at high speeds but also adds to the style element is also a bit curvier now.

Available in two colour options - Anodised Red and Power Grey, the scooter houses a 3D NMax logo placed below the pillion seat, which looks comfy and premium with a little wave on it. Talking about the tail light, it also has a new split design comprising four LED stripes on each side for a unique 3-D rearview. Although, the side turn signals have been left out to be conventional halogen units. Also, the new Yamaha Nmax 155 continues to ride on 13-inch wheels wrapped in 110/70 tyre at the front and 130/70 tyre at the rear.

Coming to the instrument panel, the 2021 NMax features a larger rectangular LCD meter and a menu button linked with it on the left side of the handlebar to check out the information that is being presented on the display. 

2021 Yamaha NMax Engine specifications

Powering the 2021 Yamaha NMax is the same 155-cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder mill that produces a maximum power 14.9 hp of at 8000 rpm and a peak torque of 14.4 Nm at 6000 rpm. For transmission, there is a V-belt automatic gearbox that transmits the power to the ground. The engine is coupled with the Starter Generator Control Unit, which provides integrated control of the Smart Motor Generator System for quiet engine starts.

The mechanical setup also mated to the Blue Core technology that makes it more efficient. Also, the Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) onboard adjusts the fuel intake at prespecified revs providing strong torque at low rev range.

2021 Yamaha NMax Features

The new Yamaha NMax is equipped with a range of features increasing its utility and intelligence quotient. These include:

• Large storage compartment: The under-seat compartment of the two-wheeler measures 23.3 liters, which is big enough to accommodate a full-size helmet. 
• Stop & Start system: This system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped and remains idle at traffic lights to reduce fuel wastage. For restarting the engine, the rider just needs to twist the throttle. A switch is also available to turn on or off the system as desired.
• Large fuel tank: The new NMax comes with a large fuel tank whose capacity has been increased from 6.6-litres to 7.1-litres.
• 12V Electric socket: Inside the front cowl, there lies a 12V power socket for charging a standard size handphone while on the move.

2021 Yamaha NMax Suspension & braking

For suspension, the new NMax 155 is equipped with a pair of telescopic forks up front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. While for the braking duties, there are 230 mm hydraulic disc brakes at the front and rear that use single-piston calipers; the anti-lock braking system is still missing on the Malaysian variant.

Verdict

Although the 2021 Yamaha NMax 155 still misses on some modern features like smartphone connectivity, ABS, tractional control, it is a worthy purchase given its easy on the pocket price tag.

Also read: 2021 Yamaha MT-09 SP breaks cover; deliveries commencing from March next year