Traveled: Yamaha MT09

Although the bike is designed in a completely new way, we find in it the tradition of the MT series. Because Yamaha already has an MT01 with a huge 1.700cc twin. CM and MT03 with 660cc single-cylinder engine See First of all, we can safely say that all three MT series have a recognizable character.

And this is what the modern motorcyclist values. With a wide range of accessories, everyone can practically make their own MT09. Basically you will choose between a touring or more sporty accessory package, where the main star is the complete Akrapovic exhaust system. In short, this Yamaha is a completely new concept for a sports bike that combines a compact frame cast from aluminum with the latest technology, great brakes, a toxic high-torque three-cylinder engine and a rear position. steering wheel like a supermoto. It was designed for everyday use in traffic jams as well as for slightly more serious sports walks on the weekends.

We tested the MT09 around Split on winding Dalmatian roads and it quickly became clear that this is a Yamaha like never before. We were impressed by the 850cc engine. See, with a capacity of 115 "horsepower" and a torque of 85 Nm. It is so maneuverable that in sixth gear it easily accelerates from 60 km / h to 210 km / h, which can be seen on the digital counter (at 1 km / h, the electronics cut off the electricity). The three-cylinder engine, which fires with a delay like in the Yamaha RXNUMX, delivers a linear power and torque curve similar to the two-cylinder, except that the three cylinders glow very sporty when we open the throttle. Yamaha has even highlighted three different throttle response programs so you can choose between quieter, standard and sporty throttle response while driving.

The engine's sporty character has been well adapted to the exterior, which is modern, aggressive and lets you know they weren't skimping on quality components. This way, you can find beautifully cast parts, the welds are clean and there is no sign of the over-saving we have unfortunately seen on many motorcycles lately. We liked the seat very much, it is comfortable for everyday riding, but at the same time it is not too large and nicely complements the image of the motorcycle. Side handles will be missing only for the passenger, but given the sporty nature, this is something that will need to be rented.

Thanks to the excellent aluminum flat handlebars borrowed from the motocross models, they provide a really good driving position, which allows you to keep a straight posture, not excessively bent at the knees, which is especially good on long rides, and above all, a really good feeling. motorcycle control. Perhaps the driving position is even more comparable to that of an enduro or supermoto bike. So riding the MT09 is a real "toy", the perfect adrenaline rush if you like, or a completely relaxed touring trip. How inventive they are is also shown by the fact that the MT09 leans into the corner at the same angle as the supersport Yamaha R6 due to the sporty frame, suspension and, above all, the narrower engine.

In addition to the fully adjustable suspension, which works great and provides peace of mind on short and long corners, the bike is also equipped with real brakes. Powerful radially mounted brake calipers support a pair of 298mm discs. They also have ABS, and this time we were only able to test the "normal" brakes.

It's hard to say that this first impression was just a quiet tourist ride as we were led by former supermoto racer and European champion Beno Stern, but on the other hand, we tested so thoroughly how the MT09 performs on a more “dynamic” ride. With a regularly heavily loaded throttle valve, consumption increased from the declared 4,5 to 6,2 liters to 260 liters. Yamaha promises very moderate consumption and autonomy from 280 to 14 kilometers with a full tank of fuel (XNUMX liters).

MT09 is expected to go on sale in late fall, but we can already announce an approximate "unofficial" price. Without the ABS braking system the price will be about 7.800 euros, and with the ABS system 400-500 euros more.

The torque, lightness and very good handling impressed us, and with hints from Yamaha that this is only the first new generation motorcycle with a three-cylinder engine, we can only say that we look forward to seeing what else they have in store for us. ... In recent years, with what seemed to be a lull in Japan, they supposedly worked harder than ever before.

Text: Petr Kavchich, photo: factory