Yamaha NMAX 155 Tech MAX (2025 – ) review

Being based on the latest NMAX 125 means the new NMAX 155 Tech MAX is mostly familiar. The 125 was launched in 2014, improved in 2021, became the UK’s best-selling powered two-wheeler in 2024, and for 2025 gained a sporty re-style and Euro5+ compliance as well as a new, more premium Tech MAX version, with TFT screen and the like. The NMAX 155 Tech MAX is based on the latter, gains 31cc and, crucially, the new YECVT transmission but otherwise is the same with a backbone frame, conventional, non-adjustable telescopic forks, twin remote reservoir rear shocks and 13-inch wheels. Accordingly on the one hand it’s bold and revolutionary, on the other it’s entirely familiar and conventional!

As it’s based on the NMAX 125, the 155 Tech MAX version has the same riding position, with a cute, sit-up-and-beg riding position typical of many 125cc scoots with footboards, fairly narrow flat bars and a small screen. Overall dimensions are on the dinky side of middling, with an easily manageable 135kg wet weight just 3kg more than the 125. For its intended use as a commuter and round town runabout it’s fine (if a little small for your tester) and, overall, it’s comfy, nimble, light and ridiculously manageable.

Powered two-wheelers don’t get much more practical than 125cc scooters and this new 155 version mostly adds to that. Twist’n’go transmissions mean they’re a doddle to ride and, with around 15 horsepower, they’re sufficiently brisk to keep up with most commuter traffic. They also have (some) weather protection, reasonable under seat luggage capacity and are usually economical and affordable. This new 155 adds performance and standard features so is an improvement but as it’s now 155cc no longer qualifies for the entry-level A1 licence classification, which surely counts against its practicality.

The NMAX 125’s engine was already one of the most advanced in the category, being a liquid-cooled 124cc four-valve single with variable valve actuation and stop-start. Apart from the boost in capacity the key difference with the new 155 is the YECVT (Yamaha Electric Continuously Variable Transmission) which, without going into too much detail, uses a couple of servoes to adjust the transmission according to the mode selected. This also further reconfigures with use of the Shift button. It works, too. Shifting into Sport mode unleashes a significant, notable increase in acceleration. Then, by also pressing the left hand Shift button, the transmission is recalibrated through three further (but subtle) levels with the effect of improving acceleration further or, conversely, by increasing engine braking, so aiding slowing down. It’s all good fun and adds greatly to the appeal of what, otherwise, was a largely conventional scooter. Braking, meanwhile, is unchanged and taken care of by 230mm discs front and rear with ABS assistance which work OK, although sudden stops require both being employed to the max.

Chassis-wise, the new 155 is essentially the same as the 125, too, with the aforementioned backbone frame, conventional, non-adjustable telescopic forks, twin remote reservoir rear shocks and 13-inch cast alloy wheels fitted with 110/70 and 130/70 tyres respectively. As a result it all feels very familiar – and that’s a good thing. It’s nimble without being too dinky, steering is light and immediate without being unstable or twitchy and the ride is adequate if not exactly cultured.

The extra couple of hundred quid for the step up from the NMAX 125 Tech MAX looks good value for the extra performance and fun factor. The 155 should also be pretty cheap to run, although not quite so much as the 125. An average fuel consumption of 118mpg is claimed by Yamaha, it’s unlikely to be hungrier for consumables such as tyres than the 125, either and tax and insurance will be little different, too.

Although the new NMAX 155 Tech MAX is a new model featuring pioneering technology, most of the rest of the bike is based on the proven NMAX 125 which has now been around since 2014 with virtually no reliability issues, so we have little cause for concern over the reliability of the new 155 version.

The NMAX 155 Tech MAX comes with Yamaha’s standard two-year manufacturer’s warranty. Recommended service intervals are unchanged from those of the 125, too, with a first ‘break-in’ check due at 500 miles when engine oil and filter are changed followed by annual routine services or at every 3,500 miles, whichever comes first.

Fancy new transmission and associated switchgear tweaks aside, the 155 is basically the same as the Tech MAX version of the NMAX 125, and that’s no bad thing when it comes to equipment. Its dual TFT/LCD dash has an air of class, as does the more luxurious seat with contrasting stitching. There’s keyless ignition and LED lights and indicators all round and a suitably cavernous luggage compartment under the seat. But the star of the show is undoubtedly the YECVT, which adds a degree of performance and ‘proper bike’ fun that no other small scooter currently has.

The modes and extra performance offered by the 155 is a great addition, especially for its meagre premium. But here in the UK the increase in engine size makes it a more expensive A2 machine, raising the barriers to ownership especially for younger riders. That aside Yamaha’s decision to push with new tech for the class is undoubtedly a good thing.