In 2006, the Yamaha Exciter 135 was one of the pioneering models to establish the sport underbone motorcycle segment. Featuring a sharp, sporty design and a 135 cc engine, the Exciter offered a fresh alternative in a Vietnamese market dominated by conventional, smaller-engined underbones with less distinctive aesthetics. Its arrival particularly appealed to riders seeking a sporty style and riding experience.

A fleet of Yamaha Exciter motorcycles on the street. *Photo: Yamaha*

By 2009, the manual clutch version of the Exciter 135 officially launched, laying the groundwork for manual clutch motorcycle culture in Vietnam and solidifying Yamaha's position in the segment. In 2011, a new version of the model was introduced, featuring a 5-speed gearbox and a distinctive design, enhancing its sport performance.

A significant milestone for the Exciter arrived in 2014 with the debut of a 150 cc engine, featuring electronic fuel injection (FI), aerodynamic design, and a larger rear tire. By 2019, the motorcycle received additional features such as LED headlights, an LCD display, a passing light function, and an emergency engine stop switch. In 2021, Yamaha introduced a new Exciter with a 155 cc engine incorporating variable valve actuation (VVA) technology, a 6-speed gearbox, an assist and slipper clutch, and design elements inspired by the YZF-R1 model.

In 2023, the Exciter was enhanced with front anti-lock braking system (ABS) and an optimized design to further boost its sport performance. Throughout its product upgrades, Yamaha also fostered a strong community of Exciter owners in Vietnam, a factor contributing to the model's unique identity within its segment. Marking its 20-year milestone, a representative from Yamaha Motor Vietnam stated that the company is introducing a new message for the series, positioning the Exciter as a Sport-Premium model due to its performance, technology, design, and riding experience.

The Yamaha Exciter 155 VVA-TCS at its launch event. *Photo: Yamaha*

Key Features of the Yamaha Exciter VVA-TCS

The latest Yamaha Exciter 155 VVA-TCS features significant improvements in its engine, control capabilities, connectivity technology, and design. It is powered by a 155 cc engine, delivering a maximum output of 18.5 horsepower at 9,500 rpm. This new engine boasts an 11.6:1 compression ratio, inherited from the YZF-R15 sport motorcycle series, and integrates variable valve actuation (VVA) technology to optimize power at high RPMs. Yamaha also fine-tuned the secondary gear ratio by increasing the drive sprocket from 46T to 48T.

Color options for the Exciter 155 VVA-TCS. *Photo: Yamaha*

The motorcycle is equipped with a traction control system (TCS) that automatically adjusts torque to prevent wheel slip during acceleration, especially on slippery roads. This system works in conjunction with front anti-lock braking system (ABS), utilizing a 267 mm brake disc. For its drivetrain, the new Exciter features a 6-speed gearbox, paired with an assist and slipper clutch. A redesigned intake path, combined with a large-capacity air filter box, also produces a clearer sound effect at high RPMs, promising an experience akin to larger displacement motorcycles.

The Exciter 155 VVA-TCS integrates Y-On smart connectivity, enabling synchronization between the motorcycle and a smartphone to track journeys, locate parking, and access an extended Revs Dashboard. A multi-function digital display shows various operating parameters. Yamaha's manual clutch model employs the Downforce Movement design language to optimize aerodynamics. It features a newly designed front mask, a slightly raised windscreen, streamlined side covers, and subtle changes to the daytime running lights, taillight, and exhaust cover compared to previous versions.

“After two decades of development, the Exciter has helped shape the sport manual clutch motorcycle segment in Vietnam, marking technological milestones along the way,” stated a representative from Yamaha Motor Vietnam. “With the Exciter 155 VVA-TCS, the company will continue this journey with comprehensive upgrades, ushering in a new chapter for the sport manual clutch series.”

Quang Anh