The Yamaha NMAX 155 sits a clear step above entry-level scooters. Where the D'elight 125 prioritises simplicity and low price, the NMAX 155 brings a liquid-cooled 155cc engine, Yamaha's Electric Continuously Variable Transmission, dual ride modes, dual-channel ABS, and a TFT display with smartphone connectivity. It is a more capable, more connected, and more expensive machine - and for urban commuters who spend real time in Sydney traffic, the step up is worth understanding. Engine and Performance: VVA Does the Work The NMAX 155 is powered by a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, SOHC, four-valve, 155cc single-cylinder engine producing 11.1kW at 8,000rpm and 14Nm of torque at 6,500rpm. Those figures place it among the stronger performers in the 125-155cc scooter segment. The key technology is Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). Rather than using fixed valve timing across all engine speeds, VVA adjusts the valve lift and duration depending on where the engine is in its rev range. At lower RPM it optimises for torque and fuel efficiency; at higher RPM it opens up for better top-end performance. The result in real-world riding is noticeably stronger pull from low speeds - useful in stop-start traffic - without sacrificing the ability to move briskly when the road opens up. Riders who have ridden other scooters in this class will notice the difference, particularly in the 40-80km/h range where the NMAX feels more purposeful than its displacement suggests. Claimed fuel economy averages around 2.3 litres per 100km in mixed riding, with a 7.1-litre tank giving a real-world range of approximately 300km between fills. For a daily commuter running 30-50km a day, that means refuelling less than once a week. YECVT: A CVT That Actually Lets You Ride The most significant engineering difference between the NMAX 155 and a conventional scooter is the YECVT - Yamaha's Electric Continuously Variable Transmission. A standard CVT operates on a purely mechanical pulley system; the YECVT uses an electric motor to actively control the reduction ratio, giving the rider meaningful influence over how the transmission behaves. Two ride modes are available via the left-side switchgear. Town mode is configured for daily commuting - lower RPM, softer throttle response, and improved fuel economy. Sport mode increases the RPM range and sharpens throttle response for faster acceleration and stronger engine braking when decelerating - more engaging on open roads outside the city. The scooter remembers which mode it was in when you turn it off and restarts in the same setting. The YECVT also includes a downshift function. Pressing the Shift button on the left switchgear adjusts the CVT's reduction ratio to simulate a downshift - up to three successive downshifts can be performed, with the current level shown on the instrument panel. This gives the rider access to stronger engine braking when slowing for corners or traffic, and sharper acceleration when pulling out. It is a genuinely useful function rather than a gimmick, particularly in Sport mode where the character difference is clear. For riders curious about how Yamaha's broader performance philosophy applies across the range, the Yamaha MT series explained guide covers that territory well. Comfort, Suspension, and Practical Design The NMAX 155 is built around a lightweight tubular frame with smooth-action telescopic front forks providing 100mm of wheel movement and twin rear shock absorbers offering 91mm of travel. The suspension is tuned to absorb the inconsistencies of urban roads without feeling soft at higher speeds - a balance the NMAX manages well for a scooter of this size. The long stepped dual seat accommodates both rider and passenger with genuine comfort, and the two-level design gives the rider a lower, more supported position. The flat footboard area allows natural leg positioning across a range of rider heights. Wind protection from the front cowl is adequate for city speeds; riders who frequently use the NMAX on faster roads may find an aftermarket screen worthwhile. The underseat storage holds 23.5 litres - enough to fit a full-face helmet - and is accessed via the Smart Key System without needing to insert a physical key. The smart key also enables keyless ignition. Start and Stop technology cuts the engine automatically when stationary at lights and restarts when the brakes are released and the throttle is turned - reducing fuel consumption and emissions in stop-start traffic conditions. Technology: TFT Display and Smartphone Connectivity The twin display instrumentation includes a 4.2-inch full-colour TFT screen that integrates with Yamaha's MyRide app via Bluetooth. Once connected, the display can show turn-by-turn navigation instructions mirrored from your phone, track fuel data, and display call and notification alerts without requiring the rider to look at their phone. The combination of onboard navigation and a screen large enough to read clearly at a glance makes the NMAX 155 a genuinely practical daily commuter tool rather than just a mode of transport. Braking and Safety The NMAX 155 comes with dual-channel ABS as standard, covering both the 230mm front disc and 230mm rear disc with single-piston calipers at each end. The combination of dual-channel ABS and the YECVT's engine braking function - which is particularly strong in Sport mode - gives the rider confident, controllable deceleration in wet or unexpected conditions. Who Is the NMAX 155 For? The NMAX 155 is a strong fit for Sydney urban commuters who want more capability and technology than a basic 125cc scooter offers, without stepping up to a full motorcycle. The YECVT and ride modes make it genuinely engaging rather than purely functional; the ABS, onboard turn-by-turn navigation, and smart connectivity address the practical needs of daily riding; and the 155cc liquid-cooled engine handles the occasional suburban and light highway stretch without straining. It suits returning riders and car drivers making the move to two wheels who want a premium feel without the complexity of a manual gearbox. For that audience, it represents a well-equipped, reliable, and thoughtfully engineered package. Riders interested in how the NMAX fits within Yamaha's broader scooter and commuter range will find the ultimate guide to Yamaha motorcycles useful context before visiting a showroom. The NMAX 155 is LAMS-approved and priced at $6,749 ride away in NSW, which includes 12 months registration, CTP insurance, stamp duty, and the recommended dealer delivery fee. Yamaha NMAX 155 - Spec Table Spec Detail Engine 155cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve, single-cylinder Engine technology Blue Core, VVA, EU5 compliant Peak power 11.1kW @ 8,000rpm Peak torque 14Nm @ 6,500rpm Transmission YECVT (Yamaha Electric CVT) with downshift function Ride modes Town (T), Sport (S) Fuel system Start and Stop (automatic) Fuel economy ~2.3L/100km Fuel tank 7.1L Real-world range ~300km Front suspension Telescopic forks, 100mm travel Rear suspension Twin shock absorbers, 91mm travel Brakes 230mm front disc, 230mm rear disc ABS Dual-channel, standard Seat height 770mm Underseat storage 23.5L (full-face helmet) Display 4.2-inch TFT + LCD twin display Connectivity Bluetooth, Garmin navigation, MyRide app Smart key Yes LAMS approved Yes Ride-away price (NSW) $6,749 Specifications are based on the current model at time of writing and are subject to change. Contact Procycles or visit the Yamaha Australia website to confirm specifications for the latest model year. Visit Procycles Sydney Procycles is one of Sydney's most established motorcycle dealerships with over 50 years of history. Our Hornsby store serves Sydney's North Shore and Northern Beaches; our St Peters store covers the CBD, Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, and south through to the Shire. The NMAX 155 is available at both locations in Crystal Graphite, Icon Blue, and Elixir Dark Silver. Call in to sit on one, ask about LAMS requirements, or talk through finance options with the team - you are welcome anytime. Like you, we live to ride. View the Yamaha NMAX 155 at Procycles