We love the MT-09. Ever since its release, it’s proved itself a properly brilliant bit of kit which offers top performance and a rewarding ride in a surprisingly easy-to-live-with package – and it’s easy to see why it’s been such a success for Yamaha.
But that doesn’t mean it’s not time for an update – which is exactly what the Japanese factory has done, creating a slimmer, sharper machine with bodywork inspired by Yamaha’s YZ motorcross bikes and the latest 890cc, three-cylinder, four-valve DOHC liquid-cooled CP3 engine.
There’s a new fuel tank which has been designed to allow for a ‘more engaged and free riding position’, which is aided by some modifications to the handlebars, pegs and seat to further improve the ergonomics. A nice touch is that the bars and footpegs are now adjustable.
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Other technical highlights include a new Brembo radial master cylinder; a third generation quickshifter; new Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 M tyres; adjustable suspension; a lightweight CF aluminium frame; and Yamaha’s SpinForged wheels.
Pricing and availability are yet to be announced, but we’re not likely to have to wait too long for the full lowdown on the latest generation of the brilliant naked bike for Yamaha. We’ll be hoping to swing our leg over one as soon as possible to see if the newest model lives up to the hype.
