2021 Yamaha MT-07 MC Commute Review

Yamaha’s MT-07 naked bike ($7,699) has been a home run hit for the Tuning Fork brand since its 2015 MY introduction. Pairing fun, versatility, and ease of ownership, this parallel-twin-powered streetbike has 25,000 happy owners to date. For ’21, Yamaha adds a level of refinement making it a more worthy choice for novice and more experienced riders alike.

Editor’s note: we’ve reported on the MT’s technical improvements during the 2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Preview article. This review describes what it’s like to ride. Get up to speed on the MT-07′s sister model, in the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 MC Commute Review and 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 Review articles and videos.

Swing a leg over the 406-pound MT and you’re welcomed with a slim riding position courtesy of its ultracompact 689cc CP2 engine. The ergonomics are a tad taller-rider-friendly courtesy of a wider and higher-positioned aluminum handlebar. Still, the bar bend is a tad conversative for our tastes with considerable rearward sweep. The seat affords above average level of comfort and the foot controls are neither too high, nor too low.

Related: 2021 Yamaha MT-09 MC Commute Review

Release the well-weighted cable-actuated clutch and the torque-rich twin pulls off the line without fuss. This engine delivers 87 percent of its peak torque (46 pound-feet) from upwards of 3,500 rpm. This makes for plenty of passing power in any of the six gears. Speaking of the transmission, the second and third gears have been massaged for smoother shifts. Unlike the R7, the powertrain doesn’t include a slipper clutch.

Despite not employing a ride-by-wire throttle (and associated electronic throttle adjustment maps), the twist grip offers a pleasing response that’s neither too aggressive, nor too soft. Combined with its punchy twin and well-balanced chassis that makes for a ridiculously easy streetbike to wheelie. We also noted a deeper intake roar and still pleasing overall engine character, with just the right amount of engine vibration.

Horsepower-wise the engine is good for 67 ponies at the rear tire. Traction control is also absent. But considering how smooth and connected-feeling the engine is with the 180-series Michelin Road 5, we don’t consider it a deal breaker. We noted a 37.5 mpg average during mostly high-speed riding.

Chassis-wise, we’re big fans of how nimble this MT is. We are also pleased with its overall balance. The suspenders perform well at a casual street pace, but you feel larger bumps through the controls. At an elevated pace, the suspension doesn’t feel as planted as other bikes in this segment with odd damping response, especially over anything but smooth pavement. Suspension adjustment is limited to spring preload and rebound damping at the shock body.

Larger diameter front brakes do a fine job of slowing down the MT-07 and we like the responsive feel of the rear brake, too. Fixed, always-on ABS prevents instability during brake application.

Related: Yamaha Builds A Better Triumph - 2021 MT-09 Review

A clean-looking LCD keeps tabs on vehicle vitals and is easy to read at a glance. We appreciate the ability to adjust screen brightness—a plus for riding after dark (in the brightest setting, the display creates a lot of glare). Full LED lighting not only looks good but performs excellently during night rides.

Suspension woes aside, the MT-07 continues to impress with its versatility and ease of use, especially in urban environments. We adore its powertrain—and its LED lighting package is a game changer for night rides. Factor in its extended maintenance intervals, (6,000-mile oil changes, 12,000 oil filter changes, and 26,600 valve adjustment intervals) and the MT is a worthy option for urban-focused riders.

Helmet: Shoei RF-SR

Jacket: Saint Unbreakable Denim Shearling Collar

Pant: Saint Unbreakable

Gloves: Racer Guide

Boots: TCX X-Cube Air