Yamaha revealed the first overhaul on the Yamaha MT-09 since its introduction in late 2013. The new 2021 model represents the third generation of the Yamaha MT-09. The affordable naked sportbike is the sweet spot in Yamaha’s line-up.
The remodel gets an update to the beloved engine, a new frame, new LED lighting, a new dash, some new wheels, and all-new suspension. The minimalist design might be polarizing, but it emphasizes the 2021 MT-09’s aggressive and agile spirit.
The new Yamaha MT-09 is stiff competition in the naked bike segment, taking on rivals like the Ducati Monster.
Yamaha's Engine is Bigger & Better
Yamaha has made thousands of fans over the last decade with its fantastic Inline-3 engine. The I3 found in Yamaha’s previous MT-09 carries the reputation for having a lot of torque, direct feel, and good traction to the rear tire, not to mention the heavenly sound. However, the previous MT-09 had lacked straight-line balance and wasn’t confident on the edge of it’s tires.
The updated 2021 MT-09 gives a little more size to Yamaha’s 847cc engine, bumping it up to 890cc with a 3mm longer piston stroke. The engine gets an updated case to hold new connecting rods, pistons, and cams. The height of the Inline-3 is conveniently unchanged and also comes with a new intake and fueling system.
The transmission has been updated with taller first and second gears, a heavy crate shaft gives more torque feel, and fortunately, the MT-09 still hasn’t lost any of it’s mid-range power. The clutch mechanism has also been reworked for a lighter feel.
MT-09 is Now a More Balanced Ride
A downfall for Yamaha's previous generation naked bike was the lack of stability in the corners, and the last MT-09 had a reputation of being soft in the springs and not favorable on a curvy road.
The newly designed aluminum frame has gone as far as improving straight-line stability by approximately 50% and ensured handling performance by improving the balance of the longitudinal, lateral, and torsional rigidity. The new lightweight, high-rigidity swingarm is 250g light, connects to the frame to the outside of the frame, and also helps keep the revised chassis stable.
The steering tube has been lowered in the frame about an inch with shorter, 41mm inverted front fork tubes. In total, the springs, forks, as well as the shocks, are now stiffer. Yamaha says the new settings slightly reduce movement in the pitch direction while making it easier for the rider to feel the suspension at work.
Total weight loss for the new 2021 MT-09 is 8lbs, tipping the scales at 417lbs when fluids are full. The triple-disc hydraulic brakes feature a radial Nissin master cylinder for the front brake, which delivers excellent controllability and is only shared with the YZF-R1.
The riding position in the Yamaha MT-09 is suitable for riders of most sizes. The handlebars and footpegs are both adjustable, and the rider triangle is more conventional than the previous model. Although the tank is somewhat more prominent, it narrows out to be slim between the legs.
Yamaha MT-Line Embraces Japanese Style
Branded as the “Dark Side of Japan,” Yamaha’s designers aimed to express the advances that have been made in the MT-09’s performance by stripping away all but the essentials. The minimalist design has received polarizing reviews, but like it or love it, and it makes a statement.
First to attention is the narrow LED headlight, which uses a projector design with a built-in internal lens as well as a thick outer lens. The result is a LED light that is easier on the eyes while still projecting an even spread of light.
A fly screen doesn’t come standard but can be optioned and is recommended if you plan on riding over 65 mph. A comfort seat, rear fender eliminator, as well as engine guards, can be accessorized for a custom for the MT-09.
New 2021 MT-09 Gets More Electronics
Between the handlebars is a 3.5-inch full-color TFT display that might be a little small, but the menu is easy to use and similar to the one found on the YZF-R1. The handlebar switches can adjust through the displays for basic information such as a clock, remaining fuel, temperatures, gear shift indicators, and driving mode.
Yamaha has been one of the pioneers of Ride-by-Wire technology, debuting nearly 15 years ago. The YCC-T system on the MT-09 governs the throttle valves to help control the responsiveness. The modes range from 1 to 4, 1 being the most aggressive and four the least.
Yamaha has updated the technology even further with the new Accelerator Position Sensor Grip (APSG), which helps reduce the amount of friction when opening the throttle for a smoother transition on and off the gas. The new MT-09 enhances the ride even further with clutchless upshifts and downshifts, allowing for controlled deceleration and lightning-quick acceleration.
The new MT-09 also receives Yamaha’s updated 6-axis inertial measurement units (IMU), which was first introduced with the 2015 YZF-R1 and has since been made 50% smaller and 40% lighter. The IMU comes equipped with traction control, lean-angle control, slide control, brake control, and lift (wheelie) control. Each of these systems can be adjusted the level of intervention.
The Yamaha MT-09 Price Jumps $400
The price of the new MT-09 starts at $9,399, which is $400 more than the year prior. Considering the amount of new features offered on the remodeled MT-09, it’s hard to argue against the price increase of $400.
Later this spring will be the MT-09 SP, which will that cost $10,999. The SP Edition has a premium spec KYB and Ohlins suspension, a few different color options, and cruise control.
Yamaha also offers other variants of the MT-line, with a larger MT-10, which shares the 998cc Inline-4 of the YZF-R1 and has a starting price of $12,999. The smaller MT-07 (using the new YZF-R7 engine) and MT-03 start at prices of $7,699 and $4,599