Yamaha has announced the release of its remaining 2023 motorcycle lineup, which includes the first extensive update to the Yamaha XMAX Sport Scooter since its 2018 introduction. Additionally, the 2023 Yamaha MT-07 has received tech updates, and the Yamaha Ténéré 700 returns for 2023 with two new color/graphic options.
2023 Yamaha XMAX Sport Scooter
2023 Yamaha XMAX in Granite Gray
The 2023 Yamaha XMAX retains the key attributes that Yamaha says make it a class leader in the Sport Scooter category. It uses a liquid-cooled 292cc Blue Core single-cylinder engine, a telescoping front fork, a 15-inch front wheel, a 14-inch rear wheel, traction control, and disc brakes front and rear.
The scooter has a two-position windscreen, adjustable handlebars, underseat storage with room for two full-face helmets, a 12-volt accessory outlet, and Smart Key keyless ignition.
Claimed fuel economy on the 2018 XMAX was 75 mpg, which should yield more than 250 miles from the 3.4-gallon tank, and the scooter comes in at a claimed 397 pounds wet.
Going beyond the familiar, Yamaha says the 2023 XMAX represents the biggest step forward in the company’s scooter design in recent years, from a new look to new tech.
Updated Styling
Virtually every part of the XMAX’s exterior has been redesigned to create what Yamaha says is “a more compact and visually impressive machine.” New X-shaped LED headlights and taillights complement the aggressive styling, and new high-mount LED front indicators add to the streamlined look. While the seat height remains at 31.3 in, Yamaha says it has been completely redesigned for increased comfort and decreased leg reach to the ground.
New Yamaha Motorcycle Connect
New for 2023, Yamaha is introducing Y-Connect smartphone connectivity allowing riders to connect their smartphone directly to their scooter, enabling a wide range of new capabilities, including phone and music control, as well as a newly available Garmin turn-by-turn navigation system.
The 2023 XMAX comes equipped with a new 4.2-inch color TFT infotainment display located below the 3.2-inch LCD speedometer , as well as a new handlebar-mounted switchgear to enable connectivity control. Y-Connect and the Y-Connect app are free and provide the following functionality for the new XMAX:
Onboard navigation through the installation of the Garmin StreetCross navigation app on the user’s smartphone.
Call, text, and email notifications through pairing with a Bluetooth headset, as well as weather forecasts, time, phone battery level, and connection status information on the TFT display.
Music capability.
Vehicle running information such as engine speed, average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, battery voltage, and ambient temperature. Vehicle data can also be collected within the app for viewing information such as service interval recommendations or the last known location of the vehicle on the user’s smartphone.
Riding log and a ranking function that compares things like a rider’s mileage or fuel economy with other Yamaha riders within the U.S. or around the world.
The 2023 Yamaha XMAX will be offered in Granite Gray and will be available from dealers beginning January 2023 for an MSRP of $6,099.
2023 Yamaha MT-07
2023 Yamaha MT-07 in Cyan Storm
The 2023 Yamaha MT-07 includes key upgrades that enhance the overall package while remaining true to the hypernaked bike’s basic concept.
The MT-07 still features a liquid-cooled 689cc DOHC parallel-Twin. In our First Ride Review of the 2021 model, the dyno testing reported 68 hp and 46.5 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel. Yamaha says on its website that the CP2 engine “provides both outstanding low- to mid-range torque and strong high-rpm pulling power.” Our reviewer put it as “all the thrill the combustion forces working below can exert but with none of the hairiness.”
2023 Yamaha MT-07 in Team Yamaha Blue
The MT-07 has a steel frame with the engine as a stressed member of the chassis, lightweight 10-spoke cast aluminum wheels with Michelin Road 5 tires, and a 3.7-gal. fuel tank, all of which combine for a claimed wet weight of 406 lb.
The MT-07’s front suspension features a 41mm KYB fork with 5.1 inches of travel and a link-type KYB rear shock that’s adjustable for both rebound damping and spring preload. With 5.1 inches of rear travel, the shock is positioned below the seat with an almost horizontal alignment to help make the chassis even more compact. Stopping power comes from 298mm front brake discs with four-piston calipers and a 245mm rear disc. ABS comes standard.
One of the most significant additions for the 2023 Yamaha MT-07 is the installation of a new 5-inch full-color TFT display that provides a choice of two different screen modes. The “Street” mode is a more modern layout with a bar-type tachometer, digital speedo, and gear-selection readouts. The “Touring” mode features a more conventional circular analog-style tachometer on the right of the screen and digital speedometer on the left.
The 2023 MT-07 also now features Yamaha Motorcycle Connect smartphone connectivity, which works in conjunction with the free Y-Connect app (available for iOS and Android) to enable a direct connection between motorcycle and smartphone. See above in the XMAX section for all the Y-Connect capabilities.
Finally, the new MT-07 is pre-wired with the necessary electronics for installation of a quickshifter, making it easy to install Yamaha’s Quick Shift System, which is available through the Yamaha Genuine Accessory catalog.
2023 Yamaha MT-07 in Matte Raven Black
The 2023 Yamaha MT-07 will be offered in three color options: Cyan Storm, Team Yamaha Blue and Matte Raven Black. It will be available from dealers beginning April 2023 for an MSRP of $8,199.
Other Updates and Returning Models
The Yamaha Ténéré 700 returns for 2023 with two new color/graphic options: Team Yamaha Blue and Shadow Gray.
2023 Yamaha Tenere 700 in Team Yamaha Blue
2023 Yamaha Tenere 700 in Shadow Gray
Yamaha’s remaining 2023 models – including the Yamaha MT-03, MT-09, MT-09 SP, MT-10, MT-10 SP, XSR700, XSR900, Bolt R-Spec, Super Ténéré ES, FJR1300ES and Zuma 125 – all return unchanged.
No model-year 2023 Tracer 9 GT has been announced for the U.S. market at this time. Please contact your local Yamaha dealer for availability and price on any of these models.
Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) has pledged to donate at least $500,000 this year to organizations supporting access to land for outdoor recreation in honor of National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day on Sept. 24. Yamaha OAI, National Public Lands Day, and National Hunting and Fishing Day all share the goal of protecting and preserving public land for outdoor recreation.
This Saturday, Yamaha OAI encourages everyone to get outdoors and enjoy what they are working to protect. Organizations that share OAI’s goals are encouraged to apply for a grant by Sept. 30. For more information, read the press release below.
MARIETTA, Ga. (Sept. 21, 2022) –Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, is encouraging people to get outside and enjoy the outdoors on Saturday, Sept. 24, in honor of National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHF Day). In recognition of these events, the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) is renewing its annual pledge to commit $500,000 to organizations supporting access to land for outdoor recreation and encouraging applications for grants before the next quarterly deadline on Sept. 30.
National Public Lands Day invites volunteers nationwide to help restore and preserve public lands – from national parks to local urban green spaces – directly aligning with Yamaha OAI’s goal of protecting public lands for outdoor recreation. To date, the Yamaha OAI program has contributed over $5 million in funding and equipment across more than 425 projects in the last 14 years to assist outdoor recreationists working to protect and improve access to public land and educate everyone on safe, sustainable recreational use. Yamaha OAI has proven to be the industry’s most reliable partner and a significant resource for those who depend on access to public land for work and play.
Additionally, on Sept. 24, National Hunting and Fishing Day is celebrating its 50th anniversary. NHF Day events are organized each year by Wonders of Wildlife to spread awareness of the conservation and economic benefits as well as traditions and values of hunting and fishing. Yamaha OAI is a founding partner of Wonders of Wildlife’s Live It! program and a supporter of its efforts to expand NHF Day events across the country. These events play a significant role in expanding awareness of the issues facing public access and outdoor recreation, and the Live It! program supports local conservation groups wanting to host or enhance NHF Day events but are limited in their resources.
Since access to public land is best protected by visitors’ responsible and sustainable practices, Yamaha OAI partners with Recreate Responsibly Coalition (RRC) on a variety of activities, including signage for land managers to educate visitors on appropriate, responsible use of trails and riding areas. Those interested in applying for signs can simply complete a form at the following link: Yamaha OAI / RRC Responsible Use Signage Request.
“Last year we made a commitment to grant half a million dollars to outdoor projects, and we’re proud to say we exceeded that goal,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s Motorsports marketing manager. “Our lives are rooted in the outdoors, and Yamaha’s direct and significant financial support of Wonders of Wildlife, Recreate Responsibly, and so many other outdoor organizations help make recreation on public lands possible. In celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Day and National Public Lands Day, we’re excited to renew our annual commitment to make a minimum of $500,000 available in 2022 to organizations who help create opportunities for outdoor recreation.”
The Yamaha OAI program encourages riding clubs, land stewardship associations, and public land managers to work together with Yamaha dealers to identify projects and apply for support. Yamaha OAI is a one-stop resource for outdoor organizations seeking support for their next project. Visit Yamaha OAI’s website for application details or examples of some typical projects the program supports for inspiration.
The application deadline for consideration in the third quarter of the 2022 funding cycle is Sept. 30, 2022. Submission guidelines and an application for a Yamaha OAI grant are available at YamahaOAI.com. Connect with Yamaha on social media via @YamahaOutdoors or search any of the following hashtags on all platforms: #Yamaha #YamahaOAI #REALizeYourAdventure #ProvenOffRoad #AssembledInUSA
About the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative
Since 2008, the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative has led the Powersports industry in supporting responsible access to our nation’s public lands for outdoor enthusiasts. With more than $5 million contributed to 425 projects across the country, Yamaha has directly and indirectly supported thousands of miles of motorized recreation trails, maintained and rehabilitated riding and hunting areas, improved staging areas, supplied agricultural organizations with essential OHV safety education, built bridges over fish-bearing streams, and partnered with local outdoor enthusiast communities across the country to improve access to public lands. Each quarter, Yamaha accepts applications from nonprofit or tax-exempt organizations including OHV riding clubs and associations, national, state, and local public land-use agencies, outdoor enthusiast associations, and land conservation groups with an interest in protecting, improving, expanding, and/or maintaining access for safe, responsible, and sustainable public use.
Updated guidelines, an application form, information, and news about the Outdoor Access Initiative are available at YamahaOAI’s website. For specific questions about the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, call the dedicated hotline at 1-877-OHV-TRAIL (877-648-8724), email [email protected], or write to:
For the past 32 years, Rider has selected a Motorcycle of the Year. With the exception of two years when we made a People’s Choice selection by popular vote among readers (the Honda F6B in 2013 and the BMW R 1200 RT in 2014), it has been up to the Rider editorial team to choose a winner based on our collective experience with the year’s eligible contenders.
We ride as many of the new or significantly updated motorcycles released over the past year as possible, and we evaluate them within the context of their intended use.
Since we announced last year’s winner, we’ve tested cruisers, baggers, sportbikes, adventure bikes, naked bikes, minibikes, sport-tourers, luxury-tourers, cafe racers, standards, dual-sports, and even an electric dirtbike for kids.
Narrowing down such a diverse range of motorcycles into a single “best” isn’t easy. Our goal is to identify the one that best fulfills its intended purpose and advances the state of motorcycle design, performance, and function.
We haven’t always hit the mark. The BMW K1 we selected as our first MOTY in 1990 proved to be a flop, and the forkless Yamaha GTS1000 we selected in 1993 was the answer to a question no one asked.
Even if some of the selections we’ve made don’t stand the test of time, we stand by them because they were impressive motorcycles within the context of their eras. Others are easier to defend, like the 2001 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing, the 2002 Suzuki V-Strom 1000, the 2005 BMW R 1200 GS, and the 2017 Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight Touring lineup.
For 2022, there were more than 60 eligible contenders. We narrowed them down to 10 finalists and one ultimate winner.
Winner of Rider’s 2012 MOTY award, BMW’s top-of-the-line luxury-tourer got its most significant update yet for 2022. Its ultra-smooth 1,649cc inline-Six makes 160 hp and 133 lb-ft of torque, its full suite of electronic rider aids was upgraded, and it has a huge 10.25-inch TFT, an air-conditioned smartphone compartment, and other new comfort and convenience features.
Competing head-to-head with the Kawasaki Versys 650LT, the all-new 650 ADVentura is powered by a 649cc parallel-Twin that makes 60 hp and 41 lb-ft of torque. It has an adjustable windscreen, a TFT display, LED lighting, a slip/assist clutch, standard ABS, Pirelli Angel GT sport-touring tires, and hard-shell saddlebags. At $6,799, it undercuts the Kawasaki by $3,200.
2022 Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak. Photo by David Schelske.
The range-topping Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak’s 1,158cc Grandturismo V4 cranks out 170 hp and 92 lb-ft of torque, and its apex-strafing game gets elevated with a new Race mode and revised quickshifter. It’s equipped with a full electronics package (including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot detection), Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension, Brembo Stylema calipers, and more.
2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster. Photo by Kevin Wing.
The spiritual successor to the air-cooled Evo-powered Sportster, the all-new Nightster is a performance cruiser built on Harley’s modular liquid-cooled Revolution Max engine platform, in this case with a 975cc V-Twin with variable valve timing that produces 90 hp. Classic styling cues include a peanut “tank” (actually an airbox cover), a round air intake cover, and exposed rear shocks.
Toeing the line between a twist-and-go scooter and a step-over motorcycle, the all-new Honda Navi borrows the fan-cooled 109cc Single and CVT transmission from the Activa 6G scooter and the Grom’s popular design language. The 8-hp Navi weighs just 236 lb, has a 30-inch seat height, and is priced at just $1,807, making it an ideal gateway to the world of motorcycling.
Indian’s Challenger bagger, powered by the liquid-cooled PowerPlus 108 V-Twin that makes 108 hp and 113 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel, was Rider’s 2020 MOTY. Touring capability gets a boost on the Pursuit Limited (or Dark Horse), which adds fairing lowers, a tall adjustable windscreen, a Touring Comfort seat, heated grips, and a trunk with an integrated passenger backrest.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke Evo. Photo by Kevin Wing.
Known as “The Beast,” the 1290 Super Duke R added “Evo” to its name and was updated with WP Semi-Active Technology (SAT) suspension available with six modes and automatic preload adjustment, a revised throttle-by-wire system, and more. Its 1,301cc V-Twin cranks out 180 hp and 103 lb-ft of torque, and its electronics allow riders to tame or unleash The Beast as they see fit.
2022 Royal Enfield Classic 350. Photo by Brandon Bunch.
The Classic 350 brings back the styling that made the Royal Enfield Bullet – built from 1931-2020 – such an iconic bike and pairs it with a 349cc air-/oil-cooled, SOHC, 2-valve, fuel-injected Single with a 5-speed gearbox. Available in nine color-style combinations and priced as low as $4,599, the Classic 350 is the embodiment of simple, fun, affordable motorcycling.
2023 Triumph Tiger 1200. Photo by Kingdom Creative.
Triumph completely revamped its Tiger 1200 adventure bike platform for the 2023 model year, shaving off 55 lb of weight, bolting in a 147-hp Triple from the Speed Triple, and equipping it with a new chassis and upgraded electronics. Five variants are available: the street-focused GT, GT Pro, and GT Explorer and the off-road-ready Rally Pro and Rally Explorer.
At the top of Yamaha’s Hyper Naked pecking order is the MT-10, a descendent of the FZ1 that was Rider’s 2006 MOTY. This “Master of Torque” is powered by a 160-hp crossplane inline-Four derived from the YZF-R1. It was updated for 2022 with new R1-derived electronics, upgraded brakes, revised styling and ergonomics, a new TFT display, and more.
And the 2022 Motorcycle of the Year Winner is…
SUZUKI GSX-S1000GT+
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
Here at Rider, we’re big fans of performance. That’s an often overused and general term, but it encapsulates so much of what we love about motorcycles. Powerful, thrilling engines. Strong, responsive chassis – everything from the frame to the suspension, brakes, and tires. And these days, electronic rider aids that allow responses to be tailored to different conditions or rider preferences.
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
We’re street riders. We may do the occasional track day or school, but it’s usually to help us sharpen our skills so we can ride more confidently and safely on the street. We want performance that is exciting yet still manageable on public roads.
At the same time, we like to go the distance. Rider was started in 1974 just as the touring segment was taking off, and motorcycle travel has been one of the magazine’s hallmarks. We’ve tested thousands of motorcycles over the years, and we gravitate toward bikes that are comfortable, reliable, and versatile yet still get our performance juices flowing.
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
Our 2021 Motorcycle of the Year was the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT, an adventure-style sport-tourer that’s lighter and more affordable than traditional heavyweight sport-tourers like the BMW R 1250 RT, Yamaha FJR1300, and Kawasaki Concours 14 – every one of which has worn Rider’s MOTY crown at some point. In fact, eight of our 32 previous MOTY winners have been sport-tourers.
And now, make that nine. The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ (the ‘+’ denoting the model with standard saddlebags, whereas the base GT model goes without) delivers all the performance a street rider needs in a refined, comfortable, sophisticated package at a reasonable MSRP of $13,799. It checks all the right performance boxes while also being practical and providing – as George Carlin would say – a place for our stuff.
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
The GSX-S’s 999cc inline-Four is adapted from the GSX-R1000 K5, a bulletproof, championship-winning engine. Tuned for street duty, it churned out 136 hp at 10,200 rpm and 73 lb-ft of torque at 9,300 rpm on Jett Tuning’s rear-wheel dyno.
As we said in our road test in the July issue, “The GSX-S engine is a gem with no rough edges. From cracking open the throttle above idle to twisting the grip to the stop, power comes on cleanly and predictably.”
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo by Kevin Wing.
The GSX-S1000GT+ is equipped with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System, which includes three ride modes that adjust throttle response, power delivery, traction control, cruise control, and other systems. It has the best up/down quickshifter we’ve ever tested, and thanks to its street-tuned, sportbike-spec chassis, the GT+ offers predictable handling, unflappable stability, and impeccable smoothness.
Touring amenities include comfortable rider and passenger seating, 25.7-liter side cases that can accommodate most full-face helmets, and a 6.5-inch full-color TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity via Suzuki’s mySPIN smartphone app. With its angular sportbike styling, the GSX-S1000GT+ looks as fast as it goes, and the side cases can be easily removed for an even sportier look.
As we concluded in our road test, “The GSX-S1000GT+ strikes an excellent balance between performance, technology, weight, comfort, and price. Life is good when the scenery is a blur.”
Congratulations to Suzuki for the GSX-S1000GT+, Rider’s 2022 Motorcycle of the Year!
Yamaha’s all-new YZF-R1 GYTR/GYTRPro. Media sourced from Motorcycle.com.
Meet the track-only YZF-R1 GYTR/GYTRPro – Yamaha’s first-ever GYTR (Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing) package for their biggest supersport offering.
This thing is the closest you’ll ever get to having a WSB-spec bike under your caboose (discounting, of course, those WSB-contracted legends that yoink about on the daily).
In giving us the package deal all set to go, Yamaha’s deliberately freed up space in the ol’ garage; care to know the pretty penny needed to get her in there?
Yamaha’s all-new YZF-R1 GYTR/GYTRPro. Media sourced from Motorcycle.com.
According to Motorcycle.com, you’re hovering aruond the €25,000 – €30,000 mark for the privilege of ownership…though the price certainly comes with a list of perks.
Over 25 bonus performance-orientated parts, ‘bring the bike in line with FIM Superstock 1000 rules,’ including full Öhlins suspension, an Akrapovič Race pipe, Brembo master cylinder brakes (complete with Brembo Z04 brake pads and stainless steel brake lines), underslung rear calipers, a handy wiring harness, and a brand spankin’ new ECU – all of which will likely complement whichever color you decide to dress your race cowl.
Yamaha’s all-new YZF-R1 GYTR/GYTRPro. Media sourced from Motorcycle.com.
“With our R series, combined with the GYTR Racing parts, we try to cater to two target groups,” enthuses Yamaha Europe’s racing product management lead, Leon Oosterhof to MCN.
“The first is what we call the track enthusiasts, who are basically trackday riders wanting to enjoy a few trackdays a year, but when they go, they really want to enjoy it…the technology and…cool machine.”
Yamaha’s all-new YZF-R1 GYTR/GYTRPro. Media sourced from Motorcycle.com.
“There is a part of that market, of course that will always prefer to choose a used machine as a base and that’s understandable, but that’s not something we as a manufacturer can tap into. What we are trying to do is to try and be very accessible in what we offer.”
Like what you see?
Yamaha’s all-new YZF-R1 GYTR/GYTRPro. Media sourced from Motorcycle.com.
Be sure to drop a comment below letting us know what you think – we love hearing from you.
Stay tuned for all things bikes, and as always – stay safe on the twisties.
The jury is out – and of all the machines on the Misano’s Wednesday circuit, Yamaha’s Monster Energy team saw the quickest rider!
Doing the honors was none other than Fabio Quartararo, who – according to a press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha via Roadracing World – is really liking the bike Yammie gave him.
This past Wednesday saw reigning 2021 MotoGP Champion, Fabio Quartararo, logging the quickest times at the Misano Test. Media sourced from Motorsport Magazine.
The relevance of this is night and day; if you recall, Quartararo refused to sign on with the Japanese marque until they were able to give him a bike worthy of his talents at the yoink – and fair.
This is MotoGP’s reigning 2021 Champion, after all.
“His improved feeling with his YZR-M1 put the Frenchman in a great mood as he tested fairings and winglets in the afternoon,” states the report.
This past Wednesday saw reigning 2021 MotoGP Champion, Fabio Quartararo, logging the quickest times at the Misano Test. Media sourced from Roadracing World.
“Quartararo clocked 288.3 km/h in the pre-lunchtime running on Wednesday, third on that metric at less than 2 km an hour slower than Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racig) Recorded on one of the Bologna Bullets…‘El Diablo’ admitted he used a slip stream to achieve that speed, but was still quite happy with what the Iwata manufacturer has rolled out.”
With the 2022 World Championship not too far away (and a purported new chassis situ for Team Blue), we’ll be looking forward to seeing the results hit the 2022 docket.
This past Wednesday saw reigning 2021 MotoGP Champion, Fabio Quartararo, logging the quickest times at the Misano Test. Media sourced from Roadracing World.
Join us after Sept 16 for the festivities, drop a comment below letting us know what you think, and as ever – stay safe on the twisties.
The 2022 Yamaha MT-10 is a backroad bomber. Photo by Joseph Agustin.
We test the updated 2022 Yamaha MT-10, the 160-hp scream machine that’s at the top of Yamaha’s Hyper Naked lineup. Aggressive new styling includes a pair of functional intake snorkels with Acoustic Sound Grilles that send a howling symphony up into the cockpit. Other updates include a revised 998cc CP4 inline-Four, new R1-derived electronics, upgraded brakes, refreshed ergonomics, a new TFT display, and more.
All Kids Bike is one of six Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative grant recipients for 2Q 2022.
As motorcycle enthusiasts, we celebrate all things outdoors. Whether it’s riding a bicycle or a dirtbike or a streetbike, whether you’re into hiking or fishing or camping, spending time outside recharges our mental and physical batteries and makes us better people. We applaud the financial commitment Yamaha has made and continues to make to maintain access to outdoor activities for people of all ages and walks of life. Read about the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative in the press release below.
Yamaha Motor Corp., USA recently announced the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) grant awards totaling $145,175 for the second quarter of 2022 in support of its ongoing mission to protect, improve, and expand access to public land for motorized and outdoor recreation. This quarter, Yamaha OAI resources were deployed to help national efforts, as well as specific projects directly impacting the future of motorized recreation. Projects being funded in the second quarter grant cycle include:
Developing a database of public land trades to help generate public awareness and involvement in protecting access for recreation.
Conducting a workshop educating land managers on sustainable trail building and maintenance to protect the safety of riders and the future of access on public lands.
Significant trail rehabilitation and rerouting efforts to improve off-road experiences while protecting sensitive environments.
Introducing kindergarteners to biking.
“We continue to prioritize projects offering innovative and sustainable solutions to the problems facing access to land for motorized and outdoor recreation. This quarter’s applicants delivered in many impactful ways and we are excited to continue being involved in making real progress on the ground,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s Motorsports marketing manager. “We are additionally pleased to continue our partnership with The Nature Conservancy in Tennessee in support of their efforts to build 150 miles of legal motorized trails on the Northumberland Plateau.”
The second quarter grants for 2022 have been awarded to six applicants:
The application deadline for consideration in the third quarter of this year’s funding cycle is September 30, 2022, and riding clubs, land stewardship associations, and public land managers are encouraged to work together with Yamaha dealers to identify projects and apply for support. To aid those considering applying for a Yamaha OAI grant, visit YamahaOAI.com for submission guidelines, an application, answers to most popular questions about the program, and recaps of some typical projects.
About the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Since 2008, the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative has led the Powersports industry in supporting responsible access to our nation’s public lands for outdoor enthusiasts. With more than $5 million contributed to 400 projects across the country, Yamaha has directly and indirectly supported thousands of miles of motorized recreation trails, maintained and rehabilitated riding and hunting areas, improved staging areas, supplied agricultural organizations with essential OHV safety education, built bridges over fish-bearing streams, and partnered with local outdoor enthusiast communities across the country to improve access to public lands. Each quarter, Yamaha accepts applications from nonprofit or tax-exempt organizations including OHV riding clubs and associations, national, state, and local public land-use agencies, outdoor enthusiast associations, and land conservation groups with an interest in protecting, improving, expanding, and/or maintaining access for safe, responsible, and sustainable public use.
Updated guidelines, application form, information, and news about the Outdoor Access Initiative are available at YamahaOAI.com. For specific questions about the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, call the dedicated hotline at 1-877-OHV-TRAIL (877-648-8724), email [email protected], or write to:
Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Yamaha Motor Corp., USA 3065 Chastain Meadows Parkway, Bldg. 100 Marietta, GA 30066
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.
YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).
Connect with Yamaha on social media via @YamahaOutdoors or search any of the following hashtags on all platforms: #Yamaha #YamahaOAI #REALizeYourAdventure #ProvenOffRoad #AssembledInUSA
Mileage: 6,294 Base Price: $14,899 (2021); $14,999 (2022) Accessories: $729.95
After a year together, it’s finally time to say goodbye to our 2021 Motorcycle of the Year. We’ve had a great time with the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT, so we’re sad to see it go.
We added several Yamaha factory accessories to improve wind protection, storage capacity, and passenger comfort.
The Tracer 9 GT is the culmination of several generations of development and refinement, and the result is a fantastic lightweight sport-tourer built around Yamaha’s 890cc inline-Triple, which is good for 108 hp at 10,000 rpm and 63 lb-ft of torque at 7,200 rpm at the rear wheel. This is one of the most fun and engaging engines around – it’s like hanging out with three hellraising buddies who know how to keep it cool in polite company but love to get rowdy when the clock strikes 6,500 rpm.
In stock trim, the Tracer 9 GT is a versatile, comfortable machine that served us well on day rides, weekend jaunts, and multiday trips. We appreciated the Yamaha’s good wind protection, upright riding position, generous legroom, dual-height seat (31.9/32.5 inches), and adjustable handlebar and footpeg positions. None of our testers complained about soreness in wrists, lower backs, or shoulders, nor was engine heat ever an issue.
We replaced the OE Bridgestone tires with Dunlop Sportmax Roadsmart IVs.
Any time the road turned twisty, we were glad to be on the Tracer. With its raucous engine, excellent chassis, and semi-active suspension, we attacked corners with gusto, enjoying the confidence boost that a well-sorted motorcycle can provide.
To get to the good stuff, we logged many miles on the slab. One of our nits to pick is how busy the engine is in 6th gear at freeway speeds. At 65 mph, the engine turns 4,200 rpm. We lost count of how many times we grabbed ghost shifts to 7th thinking there might be another gear up top. We’d like to try a rear sprocket with one less tooth to make the gearing taller.
Yamaha’s Touring Windshield is taller and wider than stock.
In terms of maintenance, we did routine checks of tire pressure, oil level, chain tension and lubrication, and such. We changed the oil and filter after about 5,000 miles, and we used the recommended Yamalube products. We also took the Tracer to our local Yamaha dealer after a safety recall was announced that all 2021-22 MT-09 and Tracer 9 GT models had an improperly programmed ECU that could cause engines to stall unexpectedly in certain circumstances. It was fixed quickly at no charge.
The Tracer proved to be unforgiving of laziness with the clutch when pulling away from a stop, both before and after the recall repair. Without adequate revs, we’d stall the Tracer like a newbie.
After about 5,000 miles of hard use, the rear Bridgestone Battlax T32 GT tire was toast. We spooned on a set of Dunlop Sportmax Roadsmart IV radials, and they’ve provided excellent grip and ride quality. MSRP for the Roadsmart IV tires is $189.95 for the front (120/70ZR17) and $250.95 for the rear (180/55ZR17). You can read our Roadsmart IV review here.
To enhance the Tracer 9 GT’s touring ability, we installed several Yamaha factory accessories, including the Touring Windshield ($179.99), Top Case Mounting Kit ($116.99), 50L Top Case ($289.99), 50L Top Case Backrest Pad ($74.99), and 50L Fitted Top Case Inner Bag ($66.99).
We installed Yamaha’s 50L Top Case. It’s also available in a 39-liter size.
Installation was straightforward. The Touring Windshield is 2.8 inches wider and 3.2 inches taller than stock, and it made a big difference in terms of wind protection. The Tracer’s 30-liter saddlebags are large enough to hold a full-face helmet in each side. The 50L Top Case bumps total storage capacity to 110 liters, and the backrest pad was appreciated by passen-gers.
Over the course of nearly 6,300 miles, we averaged 44.4 mpg, which yields 222 miles from the 5-gallon tank (premium unleaded is required). Our fuel economy ranged from as high as 60.4 mpg to as low as 33.7 mpg, the latter after giving it the whip in a serious headwind.
After whining to Yamaha reps about having to return the Tracer 9 GT, we wiped away our tears when they offered us a lollipop: an accessorized 2022 MT-10. Stay tuned to find out how we get along with the Tracer’s big brother.
The 2022 Yamaha MT-10 features an updated 998cc CP4 inline Four, new R1-derived electronics, upgraded brakes, refreshed styling and ergonomics, a new TFT display, and more. Photos by Joseph Agustin.
Streetfighter, naked bike, sport standard – take your pick, but a motorcycle like the Yamaha MT-10 should really be called The Answer.
And The Question? You’ve got $13,999 in your bank account, declining in value with each passing day due to inflation, so how should you spend it?
2022 Yamaha MT-10 in Cyan Storm
You could be prudent and invest it, but the stock market is volatile and crypto is funny money.
Or you could buy something tangible. You work hard for your money, so reward yourself. Buy something fun.
You could steal another $1,001 from your piggybank and buy a $15,000 Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo electric-assist mountain bike. You’d be the envy of everyone at your local trail, but it’s still a bicycle. You have to pedal it to get anywhere.
Instead, why not cut to the chase and buy a 160-hp scream machine with electric-blue wheels and laser-beam eyes? Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy a bundle of thrills.
Near where the intake ducts enter the airbox are new Acoustic Sound Grilles that direct intake noise into the cockpit.
Twist its right grip, and the MT-10 punches a gaping hole in the atmosphere, sucking in air through a trio of uneven-length intake ducts and sending a glorious howl up through a pair of Acoustic Sound Grilles, tingling all the right nerves and tapping into your hypothalamus for a big hit of dopamine.
Embrace your inner hedonist. Ask for forgiveness rather than permission. Be the gear change you want to see in the world.
Rowing through said gears – made easier with an up/down quickshifter but also slick and smooth using the slip/assist clutch – and spooling up the 998cc inline Four repeatedly is endlessly entertaining and hopelessly addictive. The only thing that got me to stop was an offer of free lunch with North Carolina pulled pork and sweet tea on the menu.
The MT-10’s CP4 (crossplane 4-cylinder) engine is adapted from the Yamaha YZF-R1 sportbike. Its crossplane crankshaft offsets each crankpin 90 degrees from the next, resulting in an uneven firing interval that produces a sound and feel that’s distinct from a typical inline-Four and similar to a V-Four. Fluctuations in inertial crankshaft torque are smoothed out, providing more linear throttle response and helping keep the rear tire hooked up when launching out of corners. This thrill mill churns out immediate, predictable, goosebump-inducing power.
The MT-10’s 998cc CP4 is adapted from the YZF-R1. It’s a stressed member of the cast-aluminum Deltabox frame.
Tuned for the street, the MT-10’s powerplant diverges from the R1’s track-ready engine. Its crankshaft has more inertial mass for smoother throttle response, its conrods and valves are made from steel rather than titanium, and its intake ports, combustion chambers, and forged aluminum pistons are different, resulting in a lower compression ratio (12:1 vs 13:1 on the R1). Yamaha optimized torque delivery between 4,000 and 8,000 rpm – right in the heart of the rev range.
Like the YZF-R1, the MT-10’s throttle-by-wire system now employs Yamaha’s Accelerator Position Sensor Grip (APSG), which uses a spring, slider, and gear mechanism to produce variable resistance for a more natural throttle feeling. Throttle response can be altered by selecting one of four PWR (Power) modes, with Modes 1 through 3 going from sharp to soft and Mode 4 reducing power for sketchy conditions. There are also high and low engine-braking modes.
Mission control for the rider’s left hand.
Response is fairly anemic below 4,000 rpm, lively in the midrange, and hair-on-fire hellacious from 8,000 rpm until redline (12,000 rpm). When we tested an MT-10 a few years ago, its 160 hp at the crank translated to a peak of 138 hp at 9,400 rpm at the rear wheel, with more than 120 hp on tap above 8,500 rpm. The wide, flat torque curve topped out at 77 lb-ft at 9,200 rpm. Figures should be similar for the current model.
Hanging off the right side is a shorter, lighter silencer protruding from an underbelly exhaust box with four catalyzers that zap unfriendly elements from spent gasses. A slightly larger rear sprocket (42 teeth vs. 43 before) contributes to smoother response at small throttle openings and better fuel economy, which Yamaha says has increased from 30 to 36 mpg.
An up/down quickshifter, cruise control, and R1-derived electronics are standard equipment.
The MT-10’s 2022 update also includes a 6-axis IMU and a comprehensive electronics suite originally developed for the YZF-R1. The system includes lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, wheelie control, mind control (but don’t quote me on that), and cornering ABS, all with multiple levels or modes. Each can be adjusted independently, and the Yamaha Ride Control system provides four ride modes with attendant presets. Since it’s easy to go unexpectedly fast on the MT, the new Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter can help riders avoid unwanted attention from authorities by curbing acceleration above a set speed.
Show Me What You Got
Aesthetically, the MT-10 sports a more stripped-down look, with what little bodywork there was on the previous model removed. The intake ducts on either side of the fuel tank, which were cosmetic before but now fully functional, are more prominent. New twin-eye mono-focus LED headlights and LED position lights combine with a more compact nose assembly to minimize overhang and shorten the MT’s nose-to-tail length. The MT-10’s styling still has a Transformers-esque quality that will inspire cheers or jeers depending on your point of view.
Twin-eye mono-focus LED headlights are new, and only the right is illuminated for low beam.
Aimed at middle-aged experienced riders who appreciate both performance and comfort, the MT-10 may look more aggressive, but its ergonomics are more user friendly. Its fuel tank has been reshaped, its rider triangle has been revised to enhance the feeling of sitting “in” the bike, and its seat foam is firmer for more support (seat height increased slightly to 32.9 inches).
2022 Yamaha MT-10 in Matte Raven Black with accessories
A few years ago, we added a windscreen, a comfort seat, a trunk, and soft saddlebags to the MT-10, and it made for a solid sport-tourer, thanks in part to standard cruise control. The current model would likely perform even better as a long-hauler. A new tubular subframe keeps the tailsection slim while providing support for a passenger and gear. Yamaha’s accessories list includes top trunks in three sizes (30, 39, or 50 liters) along with passenger backrest pads and liner bags.
Behind the MT-10’s small flyscreen is a new 4.3-inch color TFT display that packs in a lot of info. However, as with the MT-09 and Tracer 9 GT, some of the text is small and difficult to read at a glance – at least for middle-aged eyes of the target demographic. Also, the menu wheel next to the right grip requires dexterity and coordination to use while controlling the throttle.
Using the menu wheel on the right switchgear can be tricky.
Riding the Ridge
We plied nearly 200 miles of some of the best roads near Asheville, North Carolina, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, NC 215, NC 281, U.S. 276, and Charleys Creek Road. Early morning fog and deeply shaded corners that hid wet pavement and patches of gravel kept us on our toes. Thankfully, the MT-10 is very forgiving and reassuring in dodgy conditions.
North Carolina Route 215
The MT’s chassis uses the same cast-aluminum Deltabox frame found on the R1, with the engine as a stressed member to save weight. It has a long swingarm for stability, but its compact 55.3-inch wheelbase (an inch shorter than the MT-09’s) and moderate 467-lb curb weight help the MT feel agile and fit – much more so than the graybeard at the controls.
Most of the pavement on our route was smooth, but even where there were cracks, seams, and dips, the MT’s fully adjustable KYB suspension soaked up the punishment without complaint, and the new Bridgestone Battlax S22 tires provided reassuring grip. Checking tire pressures is now easier thanks to 90-degree valve stems – a small but much-appreciated upgrade.
Cyan Storm wheels are eye-catching and they’d shod with Bridgestone Battlax S22 sport tires.
Fast bikes need strong brakes, and the MT’s dual 320mm floating front discs with 4-piston radial calipers and single 220mm rear disc with a 2-piston caliper turn kinetic energy into thermal energy with authority. New for this year are a Brembo radial front master cylinder, a Brembo rear master cylinder, and new pad springs on the rear caliper, all of which give the brakes a more refined, precise feel.
But Wait, There’s More!
Joining the MT-10 this year is the up-spec MT-10 SP, which replaces the manually adjustable KYB suspension with Öhlins semi-active suspension, adds steel-braided front brake lines, and comes in a YZF-R1M-inspired colorway with premium styling accents.
2022 Yamaha MT-10 SP
The SP is the first production motorcycle to be fitted with Öhlins’ next-generation electronically controlled suspension that uses the latest spool valve damping. Riders can choose between three semi-active damping modes and three manual settings. Managed through the Yamaha Ride Control menu, the suspension can be tailored to suit the riding style or environment.
We didn’t get a chance to ride the MT-10 SP, but we expect it will take the riding experience up another level. It’s available in Liquid Metal/Raven for $16,899. The standard MT-10 is available in Cyan Storm (shown) or Matte Raven Black for $13,999.
2022 Yamaha MT-10 in Matte Raven Black (left) and Cyan Storm
When the original FZ1 was introduced in the early 2000s, it took the YZF-R1’s superbike performance and made it easier to live with on the street. From the FZ1 to the FZ-10 to the latest CP4-powered, R1 electronics-equipped MT-10, Yamaha has refined its formula and improved the final result. Ask the right question and the answer becomes obvious.
2022 Yamaha MT-10 Specs
Base Price: $13,999 Website: YamahaMotorsports.com Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse inline-Four, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl. Displacement: 998cc Bore x Stroke: 79.0 x 50.9mm Horsepower: 138 hp at 9,400 rpm (rear-wheel dyno, previous model) Torque: 77 lb-ft at 9,200 rpm (rear-wheel dyno, previous model) Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch Final Drive: Chain Wheelbase: 55.3 in. Rake/Trail: 24 degrees/4.0 in. Seat Height: 32.9 in. Wet Weight: 467 lb Fuel Capacity: 4.5 gal. Fuel Consumption: 36 mpg
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, has introduced the new 2023 lineup of YZ off-road motorcycles. Designed for competition, highlights for the 2023 lineup of Yamaha YZ motocross and cross-country machines include a new flagship YZ450F motocross model, along with a new YZ125X and extensively updated YZ250X 2-stroke cross-country models.
Fresh off back-to-back professional Motocross and Supercross titles, Yamaha introduces a new YZ450F for 2023 designed to push capabilities even further. Building on the power delivery, suspension performance, and usability of the previous model, the new YZ450F features more power, less weight, a slimmer design, and improved handling in an even more usable package.
2023 Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition YZ450F
The new 2023 YZ125X offers a completely new, more powerful 125cc 2-stroke engine, revised suspension damping, improved brakes, enhanced ergonomics and a new look, which Yamaha says makes it the perfect option for young enthusiasts looking to move up to a full-size 2-stroke cross-country bike that is ready for competition.
For riders looking for big 250cc 2-stroke power in the ultimate cross-country racer, the new 2023 YZ250X features updated brakes, revised suspension, race-inspired ergonomics, and aggressive new styling.
“What really stands out about the new YZ450F is just how light and balanced it feels when riding hard,” said Derek Brooks, Yamaha Motorsports Motorcycle Product Line Manager. “This new platform builds on the legendary YZ suspension and handling with an even more powerful, yet controllable engine character that will offer expert riders everything they need to compete and win at the highest level. At the same time its revised ergonomics and tuneability with the free engine mapping Power Tuner makes it easier to ride fast for all rider skill levels. I’m pumped to see it hit the tracks soon!”
2023 Yamaha YZ450F & Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition YZ450F
For the 2023 YZ450F, Yamaha engineers were tasked with improving on traditional strong points of broad, torquey power, plush suspension, and predictable handling but with a distinctly rider-centric focus for the new model with a 5-lb weight reduction, increased control, and improved ergonomics. The end result is a lighter, more compact engine that reportedly pumps out even more power, improved handling with greater agility while still maintaining excellent stability, and a significantly lighter, slimmer body with enhanced ergonomics for greater control.
2023 Yamaha YZ450F in Team Yamaha Blue
Changes for the new YZ450F start with the engine. Completely redesigned for 2023, updates include new exhaust and intake port shapes, larger-diameter titanium intake valves, new forged aluminum piston, new cylinder body, crankshaft, and balancer assembly, and a switch from wet sump to dry sump lubrication. The combined effect of these features is said to be more midrange and top-end power, including a 500 rpm higher rev limit for longer over-rev and more linear output characteristics for increased rideability and control.
Helping lay that power down to the rear wheel, a new cable-actuated clutch design replaces the coil springs of the previous model with a new disc spring and integrates primary gear and basket into a single steel unit. The result is a more compact, lightweight, and durable assembly. Additionally, a new tri-shaft transmission layout vertically stacks the transmission shafts, raising the center shaft and forming a triangle between the crank, drive shaft, and main shaft for a lighter, more compact transmission.
Providing riders with the opportunity to fine-tune engine performance to their liking, Yamaha’s Power Tuner App has been extensively revised for 2023, retaining the full functionality of the previous version but now even easier to use with more functionality. Engine mapping can now be made using an intuitive new slide bar. There is also a new lap timer, Traction and Launch Control tuning, and bike set-up guides. Additionally, a new lightweight handlebar-mounted switch allows on-the-fly selection of preloaded engine maps.
The new Traction Control System communicates wheel slip to the ECU, tuning the engine to maintain ideal rear-wheel traction. Three levels can be selected: High, Low, or Off. The updated Launch Control System now features an rpm limiter that can be adjusted in 500 rpm increments between 6,000 rpm and 11,000 rpm for optimized launches when the gate drops. Both systems are controlled through the Yamaha Power Tuner App.
The next major update to the 2023 YZ450F involves the completely redesigned aluminum bilateral beam frame, which consists of more than 10 different aluminum components welded together, providing the opportunity to carefully tune rigidity and flex characteristics of each component. Yamaha says the result is a “better handling machine with lighter feel, improved bump absorption and increased traction, allowing the rider to enter corners with greater confidence and more line choices.”
New internal suspension valving works in combination with the new frame and body to provide exceptional bump absorption, increased traction, and better cornering performance. High-spec, fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB coil spring-type forks now feature a new hand-operated compression damping adjuster for simple, tool-less adjustments, and the linkage-type rear suspension features a KYB shock with damping characteristics to match the new chassis.
Finally, a new slimmer, flatter, and more compact body design lends a much lighter, more precise riding feel. A completely redesigned air intake pathway, airbox, and filter allow for a narrower fuel tank, significantly slimmer front shrouds and a lower airbox cover. Additionally, more seamless, rounded features including seat edges and side covers further ease rider movement for improved control. The rider triangle is also improved with increased legroom between the seat and footpegs, as well as revised handlebar position for a more natural posture and enhanced rider comfort.
Other features include a push-button electric starter system with a high-capacity, ultra-light lithium-ion battery, 1-1/8-inch aluminum tapered handlebars, new compact PVC handlebar pad, new lightweight throttle cables, wide footpegs with new lightweight aluminum alloy brackets, a quick-adjust clutch perch, and new chain guide.
2023 Yamaha YZ450F Features & Benefits
Completely redesigned 450cc 4-stroke engine is lighter, more compact and more powerful with an increased rev limit for longer over-rev
Overall weight savings of 5 lb over previous model
Revised Yamaha Power Tuner App with intuitive new “Quick Setting” slide bar, Traction & Launch Control tuning, and additional new features
Two-mode adjustable engine mapping allows on-the-fly selection between two tunable engine maps via new lightweight, handlebar-mounted push-button switchgear
New Traction Control System communicates wheel slip to the ECU to maintain ideal rear wheel traction with three selectable levels: High, Low, or Off
Updated Launch Control System now features adjustable rpm limiting for improved launches when the gate drops
More compact, lightweight cable-actuated clutch design replaces coil springs with a new disc spring
New tri-shaft transmission layout shortens the engine from front to back for more optimized engine positioning
Redesign air intake path, airbox and filter allow for slimmer airbox cover and radiator shrouds
Ultra-compact 44mm Mikuni throttle body ensures optimum fuel atomization while saving weight and improving mass-centralization
Completely redesigned lightweight aluminum bilateral frame carefully balances rigidity and flex characteristics for a lighter feel, improved bump absorption and increased traction
Slimmer, flatter and more compact body includes narrower fuel tank and front shrouds and more seamless, rounded features for easier rider movement and improved control
Rider triangle is also improved with increased legroom and revised handlebar position for a more natural posture and enhanced comfort
Fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB coil spring-type fork and linkage-type KYB rear shock offer best-in-class suspension performance with revised damping characteristics to match the new YZ450F’s chassis
Front fork now features a new hand-operated compression damping adjuster for simple, tool-less adjustments
Large 270mm front brake rotor is coupled with a Nissin caliper and aggressive pad compounds
Rear brake feel is improved by reducing the rigidity of the brake hose providing a wider range of control at the pedal
Advanced computer-aided wheel design shaves weight without sacrificing durability, while rear wheel comes laced in a three-cross-spoke pattern for improved impact absorption and rider feel
Compact, lightweight push-button electric start provides effortless restarts
Premium Yamaha Blue and dark blue graphics scheme is embedded to provide excellent durability and scratch resistance
Race-developed Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires
The 2023 Yamaha YZ450F will be available from dealers this November in Team Yamaha Blue starting at $9,899. The 2023 Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition YZ450F will be available from dealers this October starting at $10,099.
2023 Yamaha YZ450F in Team Yamaha Blue
2023 Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition YZ450F
2023 Yamaha YZ125X
Introduced in 2020, the YZ125X was conceived to bolster Yamaha’s cross-country lineup while offering passionate 2-stroke enthusiasts a dedicated enduro racer. In the first major update for the model, the 2023 YZ125X reflects many of the extensive changes recently rolled out for the current competition-ready YZ125 motocross model but also incorporates a number of additional key modifications aimed specifically at boosting capability for rigorous long distance, multi-terrain cross-country racing.
The result is a powerful, featherweight, class-leading 2-stroke woods racer that represents both the ideal step up for young enthusiasts looking to enter into cross-country competition or for seasoned riders, a capable and lightweight 2-stroke.
It all starts with a more powerful liquid-cooled 125cc 2-stroke engine. Every functional part of the engine is new, including the cylinder, cylinder head, piston, piston pin, connecting rod, crankcase, and expansion chamber. To enhance the YZ125X’s performance in varied terrain and over long race distances, features such as Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS) characteristics, exhaust timing, and compression ratio have been optimized to improve ease-of-use in the low- to mid-rpm range. A new Hitachi Astemo Keihin PWK38S carburetor with throttle position sensor and 3D-map-controlled CDI unit further enhances fueling and power delivery. A new intake design with VForce4 carbon reed valve and a straighter intake path is said to result in an improved feeling of power in the high rpm range.
To match increased engine performance, an updated braking system features larger front pistons, more rigid caliper, and a redesigned 270mm front rotor with a 30% increase in pad contact area. A redesigned rear rotor maintains the same braking power while dropping outer diameter from 245mm to 240mm, reducing unsprung weight.
Front and rear suspension damping has been revised to further improve bump absorption and cornering performance. Best-in-class KYB suspension includes a fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System 48mm inverted front fork, now with new internals for more precise damping. The revised fully adjustable KYB rear shock features reduced-friction Kashima Coat internals, separate adjusters for high- and low-speed compression damping, and a full lock oil rebound system. Additionally, front and rear settings are fine-tuned to handle the types of demanding and varied environments commonly encountered in cross-country competition.
A new flatter seat and more narrow fuel tank design, along with integrated body panels and slimmer radiator shroud width all combine to enhance freedom of movement forward and back, allowing the rider to easily shift body weight for increased control. Emphasizing its YZ racing pedigree, new front and rear fender design, bold Yamaha Blue and dark blue colorway, and premium embedded graphics provide a sharp, aggressive new look with excellent durability and scratch resistance.
Additional features on the 2023 YZ125X include premium lightweight blue Excel rims wrapped in high performance Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires, along with a cross-country oriented 18-inch rear wheel, larger rear sprocket, standard aluminum side stand, reserve fuel petcock, sealed O-ring chain, and a newly adopted scraper between the fork’s dust and oil seal.
2023 Yamaha YZ125X Features & Benefits
Redesigned liquid-cooled Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS)-equipped 125cc two-stroke engine reportedly boasts more power in the mid- to high-range with cross country-specific tuning to enhance low- to midrange performance
New high-precision Hitachi Astemo Keihin PWK38S carburetor features throttle position sensor and 3D-map-controlled CDI unit
New straight intake design with VForce4 carbon reed valve
New shorter, lighter muffler
High performance brake setup features more rigid front caliper, larger front pistons, and redesigned rotors with increased pad contact area up front
Improved rider ergonomics are more narrow with a flatter seat and slimmer radiator shrouds
Fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB inverted front fork with new internals for more precise damping and a new scraper between the dust and oil seal
Removable lightweight aluminum rear subframe constructed of square-section tubing
Lightweight finely tuned chassis for nimble handling, more control, and less rider fatigue
Revised 6-speed, close-ratio gearbox has wider transmission gear tooth width and new optimized gear ratios
New lightweight rear sprocket design
Sealed O-ring chain
High-capacity radiator with dark louvers deliver maximum cooling and aggressive looks
Lightweight aluminum handlebar with two-position adjustable handlebar clamp
Adjustable clutch lever with works-style cable adjuster
New premium graphics are now embedded for improved durability and scratch resistance
Premium lightweight Excel rims
Race-developed Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires
The 2023 Yamaha YZ125X will be available from dealers this September in Team Yamaha Blue starting at $7,099.
2023 Yamaha YZ125X in Team Yamaha Blue
2023 Yamaha YZ250X
2023 Yamaha YZ250X in Team Yamaha Blue
Significant updates for 2023 incorporate similar changes made to the Yamaha’s current YZ250 motocrosser to improve on key areas and provide an even more competitive, well-rounded package.
Rider ergonomics are more narrow and substantially improved through new integrated body panels, slimmer shroud width, and flatter seat. These changes allow greater freedom of movement front to back and easier weight transfer for improved control. Along with the slimmer, more aggressive bodywork, a new front and rear fender design and a new graphics scheme highlight the race-focused YZ lineage. Premium graphics are now embedded to provide improved durability and scratch resistance. Additionally, updates to the seat and bodywork also enabled a new, straighter intake design, allowing a more efficient intake path to the engine for improved low- to midrange pulling power.
The YZ250X’s suspension performance improves with revised front and rear damping characteristics to enhance bump absorption and cornering agility. The fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB 48mm inverted front fork receives new internals and newly adopted scraper between the dust and oil seal, while the revised, fully adjustable KYB rear shock features reduced-friction Kashima Coat internals. Settings are specifically tuned to meet the harsh demands of cross-country competition.
A revamped brake setup features a more rigid front caliper, larger front pistons, and redesigned 270mm front rotor that increases pad contact area. A redesigned rear rotor drops the outer diameter from 245mm to 240mm, reducing unsprung weight.
The 2023 YZ250X uses the same liquid-cooled YPVS-equipped 249cc 2-stroke powerplant as its YZ250 stablemate but with YPVS characteristics, exhaust timing, and compression ratio optimized to improve ease-of-use in the low- to mid-rpm range for improved cross-country performance. Additionally, clutch durability is enhanced through a new friction material with excellent heat resistance characteristics ideal for long distance racing.
Finally, premium lightweight Excel wheels combine with high performance Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires, a cross-country-oriented 18-inch rear wheel size, wide-ratio gearing, a standard aluminum side stand, a sealed O-ring chain, and a reserve fuel petcock.
2023 Yamaha YZ250X in Team Yamaha Blue
2023 Yamaha YZ250X Features & Benefits
Improved rider ergonomics are more narrow with a flatter seat and slimmer radiator shrouds offering greater freedom of movement
Advanced liquid-cooled YPVS-equipped 249cc 2-stroke engine is lightweight and compact, with a wide, tractable powerband
New straight intake design improves low- to midrange pulling power
Hitachi Astemo Keihin PWK38S carburetor with power jet and throttle position sensor provides crisp throttle response
High performance brake setup features larger front pistons, more rigid caliper, and redesigned rotors with increased pad contact area
Fully adjustable KYB fork features the Speed-Sensitive System and includes a newly adopted scraper between the dust and oil seal
Front and rear suspension settings optimized for enhanced cross-country performance
Forged aluminum semi-double cradle frame
Removable aluminum rear subframe constructed of square-section tubing for reduced weight
5-speed gearbox
New clutch pressure plate material with heat resistance characteristics ideal for extended cross-country competition
New lightweight rear sprocket design
Sealed O-ring chain
High-capacity radiator with blacked-out louvers
Compact exhaust expansion chamber for improved clearance and exhaust efficiency
Lightweight aluminum handlebar with two-position adjustable handlebar clamp
Adjustable clutch lever with works-style cable adjuster
New premium graphics are now embedded for improved durability and scratch resistance
Premium lightweight Excel rims
Race-developed Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires
The 2023 Yamaha YZ250X will be available from dealers this August in Team Yamaha Blue starting at $7,999.
2023 Yamaha YZ250X in Team Yamaha Blue
2023 Yamaha Motocross and Cross Country Lineup
The remainder of Yamaha’s motocross and cross-country lineup, including the YZ65, YZ85, YZ85LW, YZ125, YZ125 Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition, YZ250, YZ250F, YZ250F Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition, YZ250FX, YZ450FX, WR250F, and WR450F all return unchanged for 2023.
Yamaha bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program
All 2023 YZ models are eligible for Yamaha’s current bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, which features nearly $5 million for Yamaha bLU cRU riders competing in off-road motorcycle racing. YZ riders can earn contingency payouts via a bLU cRU debit card, receive a 10% rebate on GYTR parts and accessory purchases of up to $1,000, and receive an instant $45 credit on the bLU cRU Swag website. The 2023 bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program details will be announced soon.
For complete details on how to register for the bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, along with specific information on which racing series, events, and classes are included, visit the Off-Road Racing Contingency page.
