Yamaha MT-09 Tracer: test of a very popular Japanese crossover


Yamaha MT-09 SP

MT-09 SP is another Yamaha designed for people with head. I used to have MT-09 and MT-10. And now another model has fallen into my hands - MT-09 SP. What do I think of him? How to drive it? What are its strengths and weaknesses? More on all this in the next review.

The MT-09 SP is another Yamaha designed to take over the city's arteries. Generally speaking, the entire series is a surprisingly unruly and successful family of motorcycles. Although there are significant differences even between the MT-10 and MT-09 SP, there is generally a big gap between the MT-09 SP and MT-07. The following video review includes the MT-09 SP model, but the review may well be the standard version (I am also referring to the first experience with the MT-09 ). This is mainly due to the fact that...

For whom

For all its rage and aggression, the motorcycle is only suitable for the city. No, it can reach speeds of up to 180 km/h, but the biker will start to blow away at 130 km/h. The lack of wind protection hints that this motorcycle is still a typical city dweller, and not a conqueror of miles and prairies.

Brief history of the model

2014 - start of production and sale of the model. Model: Yamaha MT-09; Yamaha MT-09A (ABS) (all markets). Factory designation: 1RC8; 2DRC.

2015 - appearance of the Tracer modification. Model: Yamaha MT-09A (ABS); Yamaha MT-09 Tracer (Tracer 900) (all markets). Factory designation: 2DRM; 2SC8.

2016 is the last year of production of versions without ABS. The model is equipped with a 2-stage TCS (traction control system). Model: Yamaha MT-09; Yamaha MT-09A (ABS); Yamaha MT-09 Tracer (Tracer 900) (all markets). Factory designation: B878; 2DRT; 2SCK.

2017 - restyling of the model. The MT-09 gets an updated look, a new Euro exhaust system, a stiffer rear shock absorber, a slipper clutch and a quickshift system that allows upshifts without a clutch. Model: Yamaha MT-09A (ABS); Yamaha MT-09 Tracer (Tracer 900) (all markets). Factory designation: BS26; 2SCS.

2018 - the Tracer modification receives a minor restyling. The names FZ-09 (for the naked version of the MT09) and FJ-09 (for the dual-sport version of the Tracer 900) are no longer used in the US market. Model: Yamaha MT-09A (ABS); Yamaha MT-09 Tracer (Tracer 900) (all markets). Factory designation: BS29, B6C1 (SP); B5C1, B1J1 (GT)

2019 - no significant changes. Model: Yamaha MT-09A (ABS); Yamaha MT-09 Tracer (Tracer 900) (all markets). Factory designation: BS2G; B5C9, B1J8.

2020 - no significant changes. Model: Yamaha MT-09A (ABS); Yamaha MT-09 Tracer (Tracer 900) (all markets). Factory designation: B1JD (Tracer).

2021 - restyling of models. Model: Yamaha MT-09; Yamaha Tracer 9 (all markets).

Specifications

What else is special about the MT-09? Firstly, this is, of course, its engine, not a four-cylinder, but a three-cylinder. Some will say that this solution has already been used by the same Triumph, but for Japanese motorcycles this experience has become unique. As for the rest, the model as a whole can be described as follows: tough, even rough, but comfortable for pros.

ModelYamaha MT-09 / Tracer 900
Motorcycle typenaked/sports tourer
Year of issue2014+
Framealuminum
engine's type3-cylinder, 4-stroke, in-line
Working volume847 cm³
Bore/Stroke78.0 x 59.1 mm
Compression ratio11,5:1
Coolingliquid
Number of valves per cylinderDOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Fuel supply systeminjector with YCC-T, 41 mm
Ignition typeTCI (digital)
Maximum power115.0 hp (84.6 kW) at 10,000 rpm TCS (Traction control system) 2-speed – MT-09 (2016+)
Maximum torque87.5 Nm (8.9 kg*m) at 8500 rpm
Transmission6-speed Quickshifter – MT-09 (2017+)
type of drivechain
Front tire size120/70 ZR 17M/C (58W)
Rear tire size180/55 ZR 17M/C (73W)
Front brakes2 298 mm discs, 4-piston radial calipers (MT-09A, Tracer 900 - ABS)
Rear brakes1 disc 245 mm, 1 piston caliper (MT-09A, Tracer 900 - ABS)
Front suspension41 mm telescopic inverted fork (adjustable preload and rebound), travel - 137 mm - MT-09 (2014-2016), Tracer 90041 mm telescopic inverted fork (fully adjustable), travel - 137 mm - MT-09 (2017+)
Rear suspensionpendulum with monoshock absorber (adjustable preload and rebound), stroke - 130 mm - MT-09 pendulum with monoshock absorber (adjustable preload and rebound), stroke - 142 mm - Tracer 900
Length2075 mm – MT-092160 mm – Tracer 900
Width815 mm – MT-09950 mm – Tracer 900
Height1135 mm – MT-09 (2014-2016) 1120 mm – MT-09 (2017+)
1345/1375 mm – Tracer 900
Wheelbase1440 mm
Minimum ground clearance (clearance)135 mm
Seat height815 mm – MT-09 (2014-2016)820 mm – MT-09 (2017+)
845/860 mm – Tracer 900
Acceleration to 100 km/h3.4 sec
Maximum speed224 km/h
Gas tank capacity14.0 l (including reserve – 2.8 l) – MT-0918.0 l (including reserve – 2.6 l) – Tracer 900
Motorcycle weight (curb)188 kg – MT-09 (2014-2016) 193 kg – MT-09 ABS (2017+)
210 kg – Tracer 900

Systems in MT-09 SP

The bike has 3 levels of traction control and three D-mode riding modes. These modes allow you to change the power failure characteristics. Standard mode provides powerful bottom and top speed range. We have a wild mode at the bottom and this mode has power, but less response to the movement of the throttle. This gives so much that the bike runs smoother but still has power. I traveled in this mode the most because it works in the city. The bike is responsive and responds to every movement of the throttle, happily jumping forward. This means that on uneven surfaces it sometimes drags the entire motorcycle and the rider. And here comes mode B with its soft driving

Traction also provides advice, and the manufacturer does not rage without the need for a number of levels of control. The tracks can be disengaged when the bike is stationary, but we have to do this every time the bike is put into gear. 1 degree traction control ensures wheel slip. You can have fun when the motorcycle enters the wheel smoothly, also the system will not react. Well, unless accompanied by a stronger rear skid, the computer will take control of the car and bring it to the ground. In mode 2 traction control there are no such antics. Also for beginners, B+2 traction control mode will be the best option.


Yamaha MT-09 SP

Classically we also have ABS, which works very well. Definitely better than other bikes I've had the opportunity to ride. The brake is operated by one finger. Full braking force is available without problems. For this, ABS is able to cope with sand, wet, stray, starts on pebbles - but this is nothing new. Using just the back is an action that goes beyond the purpose of ABS unless it is a very mild acceleration assist.

Dimensions and weight

If we compare the dry weight of the MT-09 with the weight of many 400cc classmates, it is quite small and amounts to 170 kg. The gas tank here is small - only 14 liters, which is especially acute due to the average gasoline consumption per hundred kilometers of approximately 6 liters. However, for a city car this is completely uncritical. The current saddle height is 815 mm.

What else about riding the MT-09 SP

The motorcycle is quite large, wide and tall. I say this, of course, from my point of view and experience. There is no tragedy, but I had a thin block under me. The weight does not interfere with driving, but it makes itself felt during free maneuvers. Unfortunately, the sofa is hard, but I sat on it, driving 200 km - so you can understand. The position will not tire anyone, because we sit in an upright position, our hands are wide enough on the steering wheel, and not bent too far forward. The passenger will be worse off because there is less padding in the rear seat, but its width is good so there is enough to reach 50 km. Additionally, while wearing typical motorcycle boots, my heels touched the passenger's feet.

Really great lights on a motorcycle. The LED is a sign that the light will be white, almost like daylight. You can see well, far and wide. This Yamaha model also comes with a thick footer. No thin rod is just a solid support that our motorcycle does not hit due to the wind on the ground.


Yamaha MT-09 SP

Basically, I can’t imagine how you can drive it quickly without an accessory. Without it, it starts from 120 km/h. With the fast one, you can easily fly up to 160 km/h. Moreover, the addition is quite a must if you plan to leave it out of town as an owner. There are usually a variety of motorcycle accessories available and you can find them all in one place.

Chassis and brakes

The suspension and brakes are fully consistent with the aggressive nature of the model. The MT-09 features an asymmetrical swingarm and inverted fork. The stroke of the latter is 137 mm, which is quite a lot for a naked bike. With all this, the bike's handling is good, which is partly due to the lightweight aluminum frame.

The disc brakes have sufficient dimensions and calipers to stop this serious machine in time. The motorcycle can be purchased together with ABS, and it is better to do so, because, no matter how good the disc brakes are, otherwise such an option will not hurt.

The path is winding

The road leading into the unknown cannot be simple, that’s clear. In a series of turns, the first of the two to show itself was the Tracer, which has a Dunlopy D 222 L. The bike moves quickly and moves easily, only a clearly visible straightening moment during braking in the assembly slightly spoils the good mood. The radial clamps work efficiently and effectively, providing a clear actuation point, and the handle is adjustable. The fork and shock tuning are firm but not uncomfortable.

Both Kawasaki and Yamaha are universal motorcycles in their purest form.

After switching to a Kawasaki running Bridgestone T 30 F tires, the Tracer rides well, but the Versys are even better! Turns of any radius can be overcome more comfortably and without straightening torque. The fork is more comfortable, but the price for this is weak feedback from the front wheel. The brake seems to be a little dull. Compensating for this is precision ABS. Additionally, its four-cylinder engine has stronger mid-range acceleration.

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