Yamaha MT-09

Yamaha MT-09 is a hardcore naked street bike which follows a design philosophy that inspires many other entry-level street bikes. The minimal body panels, sharp graphics, and headlight clearly conveys the message of thrill and adventure in an effective manner. The company headlight is accompanied with LED DRLs that gives more of an European image over Japanese yet unconventional in the segment. The distinct design language of the bike introduces a new base for the Japanese bikes which was curvy and bulky previously.

To emphasize on the its tagging, the fuel tank is finished with number 09 in large fonts. The upside down front forks are finished in bright colors that strikes immediately. The rear design is a quite quirkier with flat seat ending in a surprisingly short and slim manner. This might be uncomfortable for the pillion. Though it is a packed with a powerful and big engine, the overall size of the bike is compact and does not feel large on the road. This smart design strategy helps in improved dimensional figure that adds to the performance of the bike in a significant manner.

For displaying the important information pertaining to the ride, the Yamaha MT-09 is packed with a digital instrument cluster which is easy to read and operate. It displays information like speed, odometer, engine revs, fuel gauge and current gear.

Yamaha's MT range of roadsters has consistently raised the bar in terms of ride and handling, and the MT-09 is no exception. Despite its size and weight, the Yamaha MT-09 exhibits remarkable agility and responsiveness when it comes to maneuvering. It maintains excellent stability even at higher speeds, thanks to the lightweight Deltabox aluminum frame, alloy wheels, and a well-balanced suspension system featuring fully adjustable 41mm inverted telescopic forks at the front and a mono-shock at the rear. The braking system, comprising 298mm dual discs at the front and a single 245mm disc at the rear, also performs admirably.

Powering the street naked bike is a 847cc liquid-cooled three pot engine that is capable of delivering a maximum power of 115 PS and an impressive peak torque figure of 87 Nm. As expected, the power delivery is linear in a bike like this and a strong pull of the throttle will notify the rider of its immense power. With its three riding modes, maneuvering the bike through city traffic is quite convenient. The engine is coupled with a 6-speed gearbox that has close gear ratios, which enables the MT-09 to sway in the traffic with minimal gear changes.

The kerb weight is just 188 kg which is on the heavier side but, power to weight ratio is not that bad. Clocking 100 kmph from nought will take less than four seconds.

Powerful bikes need powerful braking system and Yamaha has ensured this with MT-09. At the front 298mm dual discs with four pot calipers and 245 mm disc at the rear takes care of braking. The upside down forks at the front and a horizontally mounted monoshock linked to the swingarm at the back takes care of the suspension duties. With seat height of 815mm, the bike is comfortable to ride for even short riders while the upright riding stance supports in handling the bike in heavy traffic. This is further aided by raised wide handlebars and slightly rear set footpegs. Though the pillion seat is quite small, the rider’s seat is comfortable enough to give a good experience on longer journeys.

The Yamaha MT-09's aesthetics may not cater to everyone's taste, particularly due to the subjective design of its front fascia. However, beneath its exterior, the motorcycle excels in its fundamentals. The MT-09 boasts a highly appealing engine, stable riding dynamics, and a reliable high-quality chassis and components.