2024 Yamaha MT-09/SP

Yamaha knocked it out of the park in 2014 when it introduced its sporty and versatile FZ-09 (soon to change to the world-market model designation MT-09 in 2018), with an unbelievable retail price of $8,999. Yamaha continued to improve the machine with various upgrades throughout its first two generations, leading up to a significant 2021 overhaul that included a lighter yet larger-displacement/more powerful engine, improved fuel economy, and revised internals aimed at meeting tighter Euro 5 emission standards while increasing performance. There’s also an updated ride-by-wire system and new braking system. A significant boost in tech includes three ride modes, a 3.5-inch TFT, standard quickshifter, and a YZF-R1-derived six-axis IMU, which manages rider aids such as traction control, wheelie control, ABS, and slide control. The chassis is lighter and more rigid, which includes a new frame and spin-forged aluminum wheels. Handlebar angle and peg position can also be adjusted to adapt the bike to varying ergonomic preferences.

Changes for 2024 include a new LED headlight, a resculpted gas tank that is 30mm (1.2 inches) lower and 60mm (2.4 inches) wider compared to last year, a sportier riding position courtesy of lower handlebar (featuring two customizable settings), and footpegs that are slightly more rearward. The steering from lock to lock is 5 degrees greater for better slow-speed maneuverability, and a new two-part seat is slimmer where it meets the fuel tank for an easier reach to the ground. A new 5-inch TFT color display offers four different themes with Bluetooth connectivity to your smartphone, and there are two new customizable ride modes (in addition to the three factory settings) that allow you to tailor settings to your preferences. The engine features a Back Slip Regulator that controls the torque level to the rear wheel and helps the slipper clutch reduce rear wheel hop under deceleration.

A Brembo radial master cylinder for the front brake ensures linear pressure for more consistent brake performance, and suspension spring and damping rates have been stiffened up for better control when cornering. The third-generation quickshift system now has an additional setting that allows downshifting while accelerating and upshifting while decelerating. And last but not least, cruise control has been added, and new handlebar switch gear includes “intuitive” turn signal functions that use a “soft click” of the turn signal button for three flashes to signal a lane change, and full click for continuous flashing, with a self-canceling function after 15 seconds or 500 feet.

For $1,700 more you can get the upgraded MT-09 SP, which has multiple features not found on the standard model. The suspension is racetrack-capable, with a fully adjustable 41mm KYB inverted fork upfront and a similarly adjustable Öhlins shock out back. Front brake calipers are Brembo’s latest Stylema Monoblock units, and in addition to the two new rider-customizable Ride Modes on the standard model, the SP adds four more Track modes that allow even more customization. The SP also adds the ability to turn off the rear ABS for supermoto-type corner entries. And finally, the SP uses a Smart Key System with electronic key fob for keyless ignition, steering lock, and fuel cap actuation.

The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 is available in Matte Raven Black or Midnight Cyan or Team Yamaha Blue for $10,599. The MT-09 SP is available in Liquid Metal/Raven for $12,299.