The Truth About the Yamaha MT-09: Community Experiences

"Leave us your experiences in the comments" is not a meaningless sentence we tack onto the end of a 1000PS video. Nobody can give a deeper insight into the nature of a bike than its owner. That's why your comments are so valuable. We've combed through the comments of numerous Yamaha MT-09 videos to gather your experiences here in this report.

The Yamaha MT-09 marked a turning point in Yamaha's model range with its CP3 three-cylinder engine and aggressive "Dark Side of Japan" design. It quickly became known for its powerful performance, agile handling, and excellent value for money. Over the years it received several updates, including a more aggressive design, quickshifter, an improved chassis, and state-of-the-art electronics such as traction control and a TFT display. The SP version offers an even sportier orientation with a high-quality Öhlins chassis and other premium features. To this day, the MT-09 remains a flagship in the naked bike category and continues to be developed further.

You can find our tests here: Yamaha MT-09 test reports on 1000PS.

Based on the YouTube comments, the following strengths of the MT-09 emerged:

Powerful engine: The CP3 three-cylinder engine is the heart of the Yamaha MT-09 and impresses with its linear power delivery and powerful torque, which is especially exciting when riding sportily. The engine offers plenty of power across all rev ranges and delivers a distinctive riding experience.

High riding pleasure: The MT-09 stands out with its agile handling and dynamics, which really come into their own on twisty roads and in sporty riding situations. It's a genuine fun machine that excites both beginners and experienced riders.

Excellent value for money: The MT-09 offers an impressive mix of modern technology, high-quality equipment, and a comparatively affordable price, making it an attractive choice for price-conscious riders.

Long-term reliability: Riders frequently report on the reliability of the MT-09, even under intensive use over many kilometers. This characteristic makes it a good choice both for everyday use and for longer tours.

Modern electronics: With features such as traction control, various riding modes, a quickshifter and blipper, as well as a TFT display, the MT-09 is technically up to date and offers comfort and safety.

SP version with premium equipment: The SP version stands out with high-quality components such as the Öhlins chassis and Brembo brakes, specifically developed for demanding riders. This version offers even more precise and sportier riding dynamics.

Owners also report weaknesses, or problems, with the Japanese naked bike:

Throttle response of the first two generations: This shows up in rough load changes. Tight corners are somewhat difficult to ride in stock condition, as the engine responds very poorly to throttle input, especially in the lower gears. And when it does respond, it does so very abruptly. From model code RN69 in 2021 onward, this was fixed and the load changes were minimized.

Polarizing design: The design of the MT-09, particularly the front mask, divides opinion. Many riders find the look too angular or unharmonious, which makes the overall appearance less attractive for some.

Build quality weaknesses: Details such as visible cables, rudimentary finishing, or the standard exhaust are criticized, as they don't match the high standard of other premium motorcycles.

Ergonomics not optimal for all riders: While you sit very upright and with a relaxed knee angle on the MT-09, the ergonomics aren't suited to every rider. A test ride will provide clarity within the first few kilometers.

Weak brakes on the standard version: The braking performance of the standard version is sufficient for the road but is described as inadequate for sporty riding, especially on race tracks.

Chassis of the base version: The chassis of the standard version is often criticized as too soft and reaches its limits during dynamic riding. This makes the SP version significantly more attractive for sporty riders.

The Yamaha MT-09 is ideal for sport-oriented riders looking for a dynamic and powerful naked bike that impresses both on twisty roads and during occasional track days. It's aimed at tech-savvy riders who appreciate modern electronics such as traction control, quickshifter, and various riding modes, as well as price-conscious buyers seeking excellent value for money. The SP version in particular is interesting for ambitious riders who value a high-quality chassis. With its reliability, the MT-09 is also suitable for everyday use and longer tours. It's less suited to riders who place great value on classic design or absolute perfection in build quality, as these aspects are more frequently criticized.

The Yamaha MT-09 is an impressive naked bike that convinces above all with its powerful CP3 three-cylinder engine, high riding pleasure, and excellent value for money. Its dynamics and comprehensive electronics package make it an attractive choice for sporty riders. Nevertheless, there are some weaknesses that keep the MT-09 from being perfect for everyone. The polarizing design is often criticized. The ergonomics aren't always optimal for taller riders, and the brakes on the standard version reach their limits under sporty use. Details such as the finishing of the exhaust and visible cables are also noted negatively.

Overall, however, the Yamaha MT-09 remains an outstanding bike that particularly convinces with its powerful engine and agile riding characteristics. For riders who prioritize functionality and performance over design, it's a first-class choice.