Yamaha recently invited us to Japan to put the new MT-09 through its paces at the Sodeguara Forest Raceway in Japan. As was expected, the motorcycle turned out to be mighty impressive and you can read about our experience in the first ride review. In case you’re running short on time, here are the highlights from the review along with the pictures of the MT-09.
Like most Yamaha bikes, the MT-09 boasts a unique visual identity, especially on the front with a robotic headlamp. The muscular fuel tank with sharp edges and a pointed tail make it look sporty.
It’s the same case on the quality front. In traditional Yamaha fashion, the overall quality levels of the plastic components and paint look top-notch while the attention to detail is impressive.
Powering the bike is an 890cc, inline-triple, cross-plane engine which produces 117bhp and 93Nm. At the racetrack, the responsive, refinement, and strong mid-range of the engine were admirable.
While the manual six-speed gearbox and quick shifter work almost flawlessly, the AMT option turned out to be more fascinating. The latter removes the clutch and gear lever from the equation and incorporates a toggle shifter on the switchgear instead.
The Y-AMT setup comes with three modes including manual which gives the rider full control of shifting gears through the toggle switch. There’s an Auto mode as well which takes care of the gear-shifting process, somewhat like a CVT scooter.
Underpinning the MT-09 is a Deltabox chassis that felt quite communicative around the track while giving enough flexibility to make mid-corner corrections.
The rest of the hardware package, which delivers great handling dynamics and stability, comprises 41mm USD forks, a monoshock, Brembo brakes, and 17-inch wheels shod with Bridgestone Battlax S23 tyres.
It’s good news that Yamaha is considering launching the MT-09 in India and we hope it will be priced competitively which will give it an edge over its rivals like the Kawasaki Z900 and the Triumph Street Triple R.
