Yamaha MT-09

Why does the 2024 MT-09 matter?

When Yamaha launched the original MT-09 in 2014, the naked middleweight segment was never the same. A punchy crossplane triple, featherweight chassis and aggressive pricing: the formula attracted over 100,000 buyers in Europe alone. For its tenth anniversary, Yamaha delivers the most comprehensive update yet, addressing long-standing criticisms while preserving the raw character that made the MT-09 a legend.

The MT-09’s history is one of a motorcycle that has always divided opinion. Earlier versions were loved for their engine and criticised for their sometimes unruly road manners. Budget suspension, a vague front end and aggressive throttle response in Standard mode were recurring complaints. Yamaha has chipped away at these shortcomings generation after generation, and the 2024 model represents the culmination of that evolution.

What makes the CP3 engine so special?

The 890cc CP3 engine carries over with Euro 5+ compliance but identical output: 117.3 bhp at 10,000 rpm and 68.6 lb-ft of torque at 7,000 rpm. These numbers don’t tell the full story. The CP3’s magic lies in its crossplane crankshaft, a concept borrowed from Yamaha’s YZF-R1 superbike. The irregular firing order gives the triple a unique personality: an organic, almost living surge of torque that feels fundamentally different from conventional inline engines.

New acoustic amplifier grilles on the tank pipe intake noise straight to the rider, making every acceleration feel more visceral. The soundtrack alone is worth the price of admission. The transmission has also been revised with additional dog teeth on the top four ratios for smoother engagement, while the assist and slipper clutch protects the rear wheel during aggressive downshifts.

How does it ride?

The 2024 model marks a deliberate shift from the MT-09’s supermotard heritage toward a more conventional sporty naked stance. The handlebars sit lower (with two adjustable positions), the footpegs are higher and further back (also adjustable), and the new two-piece seat sits closer to the tank. The fuel tank has been lowered by 30mm and widened to maintain its 14-litre capacity, allowing better knee grip. The result is a more committed riding position that puts more weight on the front wheel and makes the bike feel more connected through corners.

The CF aluminium frame carries over, but geometry has been tweaked: 24.7-degree rake angle and 109mm trail. The fully adjustable 41mm KYB inverted fork features higher spring rates and recalibrated damping to suit the new Bridgestone Battlax S23 tyres. The rear shock is adjustable for preload and rebound. Yamaha’s spin-forged aluminium wheels reduce unsprung mass, contributing to the bike’s remarkable agility through direction changes.

The S23 tyres provide a good balance between road and track use, though several testers note reduced feedback in cold conditions. Something to keep in mind if you ride year-round.

Braking sees the addition of a Brembo radial master cylinder at the front, significantly improving feel and modulation. The twin 298mm discs with four-piston callipers work alongside a 6-axis IMU-assisted ABS system that adjusts intervention based on lean angle.

What about the electronics?

This is where the 2024 MT-09 takes a major leap. A new 5-inch full-colour TFT display with four selectable themes replaces the old unit. It connects via Bluetooth to Yamaha’s Y-Connect app for phone notifications and music, and supports Garmin StreetCross turn-by-turn navigation directly on the dash.

Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) allows independent adjustment of throttle response, traction control (four levels), slide control, anti-wheelie and engine braking across five modes (Sport, Street, Rain and two Custom). Adjustments can be made directly from the dashboard or via the smartphone app.

The third-generation quickshifter deserves special mention. It enables clutchless upshifts on a closed throttle and downshifts on an open throttle, essentially making it a fully seamless system from as low as 2,000 rpm and 10 mph. This makes city riding remarkably smooth, even in heavy traffic.

Standard-fit cruise control is a welcome addition for motorway miles. The Back Slip Regulator (BSR) also joins the arsenal, finely managing engine braking to prevent rear wheel lockup during aggressive downshifts.

Who is it for?

The MT-09 targets riders who crave excitement without the bulk or expense of a supernaked. At 193 kg wet and with generous torque, it’s nimble in urban traffic, while 117 bhp and sophisticated electronics make it credible on track. It excels as a daily commuter that transforms into a weekend weapon.

The refined electronics and multiple riding modes make it approachable for newly qualified riders, but those 117 horses still demand respect. Rain mode and traction control provide a safety net while you build confidence.

Note that with 87.5 kW of power, the MT-09 exceeds the 70 kW threshold for A2 licence restriction in Europe. Yamaha does offer a factory-detuned 35 kW version in select European markets, separately homologated for A2 riders.

The bottom line

The 2024 MT-09 is the best version Yamaha has ever made. The CP3 engine remains the benchmark in its class, the electronics now match premium rivals, and the value proposition is unbeatable. At under 11,000 euros, you get a 117 bhp naked with a 6-axis IMU, bidirectional quickshifter, cruise control and connected TFT display. Weak points are few: a 14-litre tank that limits range for touring riders, zero wind protection and styling that continues to divide opinion. On the road, though, it’s a unanimous crowd-pleaser.