If you ride a motorcycle with a constant-ratio sequential gearbox, overtaking is effortless—just downshift and accelerate past traffic. However, scooters with CVT gearboxes behave differently. Since CVTs rely on infinite ratios, you must wait for the system to adjust before power delivery increases.
The 2026 Yamaha NMax 155 Tech Max aims to solve this problem with a unique downshift button on its switchgear. This new feature instantly brings more torque, mimicking the effect of manually downshifting on a traditional gearbox. Yamaha’s new system, called YECVT, enhances the scooter’s responsiveness and rider engagement.
2026 Yamaha NMax 155 Tech Max with YECVT
For the model year 2026, Yamaha has introduced the YECVT gearbox to the NMax 155 Tech Max, while keeping most of its design and mechanicals unchanged. The scooter retains dual disc brakes, a 4.2-inch TFT display, and the same 155cc liquid-cooled 4-valve engine shared with the Aerox 155.
The standout feature of the YECVT system is the Downshift toggle located on the left-side switchgear. It’s paired with two ride modes — Town and Sport. Activating the Downshift toggle engages Sport mode, which increases engine revs and delivers quicker throttle response, similar to a downshift in a manual gearbox.
Town Mode, meanwhile, keeps the revs lower to simulate an upshift or higher gear for smoother, fuel-efficient rides. Riders can now control how the transmission behaves, reducing the lag typically experienced during rapid overtakes.
How does it work?
Traditional CVTs use conical pulleys that continuously change to adjust gear ratios. YECVT replaces this with electronic and hydraulic control that fixes the belt drive at specific pulley diameters. It simulates fixed gear ratios and brings a more direct response. This setup usually appears in cars and big scooters, but Yamaha is now adapting it for smaller engines.
Yamaha offers two predefined ratios that deliver different torque levels and engine braking based on the selected mode.
Will it launch in India?
Yamaha Motor India has hinted at bringing the NMax 155 to the Indian market. The scooter was showcased in February 2024 and later teased in September 2024, suggesting a possible launch during Yamaha’s November 11th event.
However, it’s unlikely that the Indian version will initially feature the advanced YECVT system that simulates downshifts for enhanced performance.
Source
Rush Lane – https://www.rushlane.com/2026-yamaha-nmax-155-gets-updated-cvt-with-downshift-feature-12532490.html
