Tag Archives: Yamaha MT-09 SP

2024 Yamaha MT-09 and MT-09 SP Review | First Look

November 8, 2023 mcnews Leave a comment

Yamaha recently announced the newest evolution of its popular hyper naked middleweight sportbike, the 2024 Yamaha MT-09 and MT-09 SP. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the bike originally known as the FZ-09 in the U.S. but which was released as the MT-09 in 2013.

The new 2024 MT-09 retains the previous model’s liquid-cooled 890cc inline-Triple with DOHC, a lightweight controlled fill diecast aluminum frame, and 6-axis IMU with a full suite of lean-sensitve rider aids, but it adds a long list of new features to further enhance the MT experience. And the MT-09 SP takes it up another notch.

Adding to the electronics suite on the bikes is the addition of a new Back Slip Regulator (BSR), which uses engine RPM and wheel speed data to reduce rear wheel lock up under engine braking by controlling the level of torque produced. This is especially useful in low-grip situations when it is difficult to activate the slipper clutch. The system can be turned on or off in the Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) settings menu.

2024 Yamaha MT-09 Matte Raven Black — 2024 Yamaha MT-09 in Matte Raven Black

2024 Yamaha MT-09 Team Yamaha Blue — 2024 Yamaha MT-09 in Team Yamaha Blue

Both bikes are also equipped with Yamaha’s new third-generation Quick Shift System (QSS) for clutchless upshifts and downshifts. QSS has two settings. Setting 1 enables shifting up while accelerating and shifting down when decelerating. Setting 2 expands functionality across a wider range of situations by permitting downshifts while accelerating and upshifts when decelerating.

From a braking standpoint, the MT-09 is enhanced by a new Brembo radial master cylinder where the piston moves in a direction parallel to brake lever travel. This sends hydraulic pressure in a linear manner when the rider pulls the lever for improved controllability. The new master cylinder is paired with dual 298mm front discs and a single 245mm rear disc. The MT-09 SP levels up with Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers, which feature a slimmer piston and brake pad area compared to conventional calipers, as well as being lighter and more rigid and offering enhanced control. In addition, larger-diameter pistons create more braking force.

Suspension has also been revised for 2024, with the MT-09 sporting a 41mm inverted fork adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound, and the adjustable KYB rear shock features revised linkage settings. New for 2024, higher spring rates and updated damping characteristics are tuned to accommodate a wider range of speeds and to match new standard fitment Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires.

On the MT-09 SP, a DLC-coated 41mm KYB fork offers full adjustability for preload, rebound, and high- and low-speed compression damping. In the back, the Öhlins shock is also fully adjustable and comes equipped with a remote preload adjuster enabling quick and easy changes.

See all of Rider’s Yamaha coverage here.

New for 2024, MT-09 riders can further customize their riding experience via Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) settings that allow the selection of engine power characteristics and electronic intervention levels. Three integrated ride modes are programmed with factory settings to suit different situations: Sport, Street, and Rain. Additionally, riders can create two custom programs with tailored settings to suit exact preferences. YRC settings can be customized either directly within the TFT display menu or on a smartphone via the Y-Connect app.

In addition to factory and custom setting available on the standard MT-09, SP specification adds four exclusive Track modes allowing for more specialized track settings, including the option of choosing between two Engine Brake Management settings and the ability to turn rear ABS off.

Intuitive new turn signal functions further improve the riding experience. A soft click of the indicator switch will flash the turn signals three times for lane changes, while a full click will flash continuously. Turn signals will also self-cancel after 15 seconds and once the bike has travelled for more than 500 feet.

Already known for its engaging riding experience, ergonomics on the new 2024 MT-09 have been further enhanced, including a lower handlebar position with two customizable settings. Newly designed footrests sit slightly more rearward and are also adjustable. Combined with the new fuel tank design, which sits 30mm lower than the previous model, riding position is more dedicated, and handlebar steering angle is 4 degrees greater on each side for a tighter turning radius and improved low-speed maneuverability. Additionally, the new two-part seat design is slimmer for increased freedom of movement and an easier reach to the ground.

Visually speaking, a new headlight has a bi-functional LED projector that features a compact diameter lens module that is both smaller and thinner than the previous model while still providing a broad, powerful beam. Transparent twin LED position lights complete the MT-09’s more compact, sharp, and aggressive face. This theme is continued at the rear with a newly designed LED taillight with a slimmer look and new color layout, along with LED turn signals. In addition the lower position of the fuel tank, it has also been redesigned with sharper, more defined lines while still maintaining the distinctively modern street aesthetic.

And of course, you can’t forget the distinctive wail of the MT-09’s crossplane Triple powerplant. The 2024 MT-09 features a new two-duct intake design with acoustic amplifier grilles located on top of the fuel tank to accentuate high frequency induction sounds, delivering the CP3’s induction roar directly to the rider for an enhanced sensation of torque and acceleration.

Both bikes have a new 5-inch full-color TFT display replacing the 3.5-inch display on the previous model and offering four different themes to suit specific riding situations or individual preference. The screen is navigated through all-new integrated handlebar switches, and Yamaha says the buttons’ shape and feel have been extensively refined to provide intuitive operation in a compact, easy-to-use solution. For the SP, the on-track riding experience is further enhanced by a dedicated SP-exclusive Track theme featuring a prominent lap timer.

2024 Yamaha MT-09 TFT — A 5-inch TFT replaces the former 3.5-inch TFT on both MT-09 models.

Connectivity now comes standard on the MT-09 via a built-in Communication Control Unit (CCU), allowing riders to link their smartphone to the motorcycle using Yamaha’s free Y-Connect app. As well as receiving call and message notifications on the TFT display, a new dimension is added to the ride with the option of taking calls or listening to music through use of an aftermarket Bluetooth headset (not provided). Additionally, full turn-by-turn navigation is available through the Garmin StreetCross app. Finally, riders can opt to personalize the TFT display by sending images from their smartphone via the Y-Connect app.

The 2024 MT-09 SP will also incorporate Yamaha’s Smart Key System. When the smart key is within a specified range of the motorcycle, such as in your pocket, the engine can be started by turning a newly designed switch. The new system also features a lock and unlock function for the fuel tank cap for added convenience.

The new 2024 Yamaha MT-09 will be available in either Team Yamaha Blue, Midnight Cyan, or Matte Raven Black, arriving to dealers in March 2024 for $10,599 MSRP.

2024 Yamaha MT-09 Midnight Cyan — 2024 Yamaha MT-09 in Midnight Cyan

The 2024 MT-09 SP comes in an R1M-inspired Liquid Metal/Raven color scheme with the SP’s hallmark polished and clear coated aluminum swingarm. The MT-09 SP will arrive in dealerships in late spring 2024 for $12,299 MSRP.

For more information, visit the Yamaha Motorsports website.

Check out more new/updated bikes in Rider’s 2024 Motorcycle Buyers Guide

The post 2024 Yamaha MT-09 and MT-09 SP Review | First Look appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

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2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP | First Ride Review

May 2, 2023 mcnews Leave a comment

In January of this year, EIC Greg Drevenstedt asked me what was on my list of “riding resolutions” for 2023. I had heard about the Yamaha Champions Riding School from content we had published, and even though I have no false pretenses about my future as a professional racer, I told him I would love to attend one of the YCRS classes – even better on a bike like the Yamaha MT-09 SP.

The reason for the latter is that I knew my normal cruiser was clearly not going to be the optimal bike for the two-day ChampSchool class I would attend at the end of January at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Since the program has “Yamaha” in the name, we opted for one of their bikes.

Yamaha MT-09 SP: Take a Ride on the Dark Side

The Yamaha MT-09 naked bike was introduced in 2014 and was a crowd pleaser from the jump. In 2021, the bike received a major overhaul, and the up-spec MT-09 SP was introduced. Displacement on the MT-09’s CP3 inline-Triple was bumped from 847cc to 890cc, and claimed output increased to 117 hp and 69 lb-ft of torque. Yamaha also updated the throttle-by-wire and slip/assist clutch and added a quickshifter.

A 6-axis IMU derived from the YZF-R1 manages the bike’s traction control, slide control, and front-wheel lift control systems. The IMU was designed to be smaller and lighter, and along with other weight-shaving measures, including spin-forged aluminum wheels and an aluminum swingarm, the MT-09 comes in at a trim 417 lb, with the up-spec SP at 419 lb. Both bikes also have two levels of ABS intervention and four D-Mode engine maps that regulate engine response and output.

GEAR UP

Helmet: HJC RPHA 91
Jacket: Joe Rocket Sinister
Gloves: Joe Rocket Super Moto
Pants: Joe Rocket Anthem Jeans
Boots: Joe Rocket Sonic X

To create the MT-09 SP, which retails for $11,499 (a $1,700 premium over the standard MT-09), Yamaha added high- and low-speed compression adjustability and sportier damping to the KYB 41mm inverted fork and swapped the KYB rear shock for a premium Öhlins unit that is fully adjustable and includes a remote preload adjuster. The SP also has standard cruise control and styling inspired by the YZF-R1M.

Southern California to Southern Utah

I picked up the MT-09 SP from Cypress, California, the weekend before ChampSchool. The first thing I noticed when I fired up the bike was the sound. It’s not the low rumble I’m used to from my V-Twin, but it emits a nice throaty bellow from the symmetrical muffler with dual outlets mounted under the bike. The pleasing tones continue into the mid- and upper-range thanks to the three variable-length intake ducts that also came along with the 2021 upgrade.

With the suspension and other settings dialed in, I set off for the 450-mile ride back to my home in southern Utah. On the unfamiliar California highway system, I was glad to be on the MT-09 SP. Its throttle-by-wire provides smooth, crisp response. Even in D-Mode 2 (moderate engine response), overtaking was a breeze when I needed to, and when a quick stop was required, the radial-mounted Nissin master cylinder, 4-piston calipers, and dual 298mm floating discs up front worked in concert nicely.

My mid-January ride started in beautiful weather, but right around San Bernadino, I hit a 20-mph headwind that stuck around for almost the entire 200 miles to Las Vegas. Enter cruise control.

I’ve never ridden a bike with cruise control – and I was okay with that fact. It seemed like there was something inherently unnatural about cruise control on a motorcycle, and on a bike like the MT-09 SP, it felt akin to taking your hands off the steering wheel of a rocket (and yes, I’m aware it’s actually called a “reaction wheel,” but you get the idea). However, with those kinds of winds on the naked bike, I felt more like I was just fighting to hold on as opposed to controlling the motorcycle, and cruise control became my new best friend.

However, I think the cruise control could use some improvement. Once it’s turned on and engaged, cruise control can be disengaged by applying the brakes, throttle, or clutch, but the on/off, set, and resume buttons are a stretch from the left grip, and they’re small. With my winter gloves on, when I had disengaged the cruise control and then attempted to reach my thumb across to hit resume, several times I inadvertently ended up hitting the on/off button by mistake, which resulted in deceleration when I didn’t want to slow down. Then I had to start the process over, turning it back on and re-setting my speed. The placement and size (or style) of the cruise control buttons could be made more user-friendly.

To the Track…and Beyond!

One place I certainly wasn’t using the cruise control was at the Las Vegas Speedway, and this is where the MT-09 SP really shined.

Yamaha Champions Riding School ChampSchool Yamaha MT-09 SP — Taking a breather between track sessions at ChampSchool with the Yamaha MT-09 SP. Is it obvious that I’m not used to track leathers?

The quickshifter was a thing of beauty for getting up to speed (at the behest of my instructor to practice blipping the engine on downshifts, I didn’t use the quickshifter there, but it was smooth when I tried it elsewhere). The quickshifter has up/down arrows that light up on the 3.5-inch color TFT display when it’s possible to use the feature in each gear, which is handy. However, despite the manual’s recommended speeds for shifting, I found the transition from 1st to 2nd kind of clunky at the recommended 12 mph. It was definitely smoother if I accelerated a little more before using the quickshifter.

The MT-09 SP combines traction control, slide control, and wheelie control into four TCS settings: 1 (minimal intervention), 2 (moderate intervention), Manual (settings can be customized), and Off. At the track, at my instructor’s recommendation, I had TCS mode set at level 2, which is moderate intervention across the board. There was one particular turn where I felt the rear end slip out a little on multiple passes, but the traction control did its job with subtle intervention.

For someone who had never been on a track, I felt surprisingly comfortable on the MT-09 SP – several instructors said, “Oh yeah, that’s a good one.” I was able to trust in its abilities while practicing the finer details of track riding. And when it came to riding the MT-09 SP in a favorite canyon closer to my home, all the thought-out details that went into the 2021 upgrade – from the lighter curb weight, stiffer chassis, and throttle-by-wire to the up-spec suspension of the SP – worked together for some nice carving, as well as quick evasive maneuvering around a couple corners where heavy precipitation had loosened some rocks from the roadside cliffs and dropped them in my unsuspecting path.

As I mentioned in my report on the YCRS ChampSchool, I’ve always been more of a cruiser guy than a sportbike guy, but after more than 1,300 miles on the 2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP, including track, interstate, around town, and canyon riding, I’d gladly take more rides on the dark side.

Read all of Rider‘s Yamaha coverage here.

2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP Specs

Base Price: $11,499
Website: YamahaMotorSports.com
Warranty: 1 yr., unltd. miles
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled transverse inline-Triple, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl.
Displacement: 890cc
Bore x Stroke: 78.0 x 62.1mm
Horsepower: 117 hp @ 10,000 rpm (factory claim)
Torque: 69 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm (factory claim)
Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch
Final Drive: O-ring chain
Wheelbase: 56.3 in.
Rake/Trail: 25 degrees/4.3 in.
Seat Height: 32.5 in.
Wet Weight: 419 lb
Fuel Capacity: 3.7 gal.
Fuel Consumption: 48.3 mpg

The post 2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP | First Ride Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

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