~ Auto Buzz ~: 2017 Yamaha MT-09 Preview

Tuesday, 4 October 2016

2017 Yamaha MT-09 Preview

Yamaha launched a new series of naked motorcycles in 2013 with the three-cylinder MT-09 (a.k.a. the FZ-09 here in North America) earning strong reviews from the press and consumers. European consumers in particular took to the MT-09, making it one of Yamaha top-selling models in the continent. Now joined by a family of MT models ranging from 125cc to 1000cc, the MT-09 receives its first update, getting a quick shifter, assist & slipper clutch and (at last) improved suspension.

Our biggest issue with the original FZ-09 was its budget suspension. Hoping to ameliorate those criticisms, Yamaha revised the 41mm fork, putting compression damping to the left fork tube while rebound damping adjustments can be made on the right tube. Yamaha says separating the compression and rebound in different fork tubes should improve the flow rate of the fork oil, allowing more adjustability and more consistent performance. The rear shock remains unchanged however, so we’ll have to see for ourselves if the changes to the fork is enough to address our concerns.

The 850cc Triple returns, fully Euro 4-compliant. The new assist and slipper clutch is designed to ensure stability during heavy engine braking while reducing lever load when downshifting. For 2017, the MT-09 receives a new quick shifter inherited from the YZF-R1. The system has a sensor on the shift rod that can cancel drive torque during upshifts, improving acceleration.

The FZ-10‘s polarizing Transformer look makes its way to the MT-09, with a new twin-eye headlight design. Each eye has two LEDs and sits above a small winglet similar to the design on the FZ-10. To accommodate the wider headlight, Yamaha moved the turn signals to the radiator shrouds while moving the multi-function instrument cluster farther forward.

Yamaha also updated the MT-09’s tail, shortening the subframe by 1.2 inches and adding an M-shaped LED taillight. The seat was also redesigned, making it flatter while raising it 0.2 inches. To further highlight the new tail design, Yamaha moved the license plate holder to a new swingarm-mounted rear fender. Other styling updates include larger air scoops, revised radiator fins, side grills on the tail cowl and a flatter muffler with a new end cap.