2023 Yamaha MT-09

Description

The third-generation MT-09 carries Yamaha’s Hyper Naked lineage into sharper, lighter form: an 890cc CP3 triple, CF die-cast aluminum chassis, and radical minimalist styling that put the “Master of Torque” back at the center of the naked middleweight class. For 2023 in the U.S., the base MT-09 continued that 2021 redesign essentially unchanged, offered in Team Yamaha Blue, Cyan Storm, and Matte Raven Black. This example wears the factory Team Yamaha Blue scheme—deep metallic blue tank and color-matched blue multi-spoke wheels with cyan accent graphics on the intake shrouds—plus a photo-confirmed aftermarket fender eliminator; exhaust, mirrors, and Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport rubber appear stock. At its core is the liquid-cooled DOHC inline triple with YCC-T ride-by-wire, assist-and-slipper clutch, and a six-speed gearbox. A six-axis IMU feeds lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, and lift control, with Brake Control ABS modes, four D-Modes, and a Quick Shift System for clutchless upshifts and downshifts. A 3.5-inch full-color TFT, full LED lighting, adjustable bars and pegs, and fully adjustable KYB® inverted forks with a rebound/preload-adjustable KYB® rear shock round out the package riders use every day. Against rivals such as the Triumph Street Triple, Kawasaki Z900, and Suzuki GSX-S750, the MT-09 stands out with its distinctive three-cylinder soundtrack, class-light 417 lb wet weight, and IMU-based electronics normally reserved for higher-priced sportbikes. That mix of midrange punch, agile aluminum chassis, and adjustable rider aids makes it a strong choice for Miami street riding, canyon days, and riders who want Hyper Naked character without stepping up to an MT-10.