2022 Yamaha MT-09

Description

The MT-09 lineage began as Yamaha’s torque-first Hyper Naked and reached U.S. riders first as the FZ-09 before the global MT-09 name took over. For the second-generation platform that covers the 2021–2022 model years, Yamaha rebuilt the bike around an all-new 890cc CP3 inline-triple, a lighter aluminum CF die-cast chassis, and sharper minimalist styling while keeping the midrange character that defined the family. U.S.-market 2022 MT-09 models pair that liquid-cooled DOHC triple and YCC-T ride-by-wire with a six-axis IMU that feeds lean-sensitive traction, slide, and lift control, plus Brake Control with ABS and a quickshifter for clutchless upshifts and downshifts. A color 3.5-inch TFT, full LED lighting, and KYB suspension adjustable for everyday street aggression complete the electronics-and-chassis package. Against mid-displacement naked rivals such as the Triumph Street Triple, Kawasaki Z900, and similar streetfighters, the MT-09 leans on its distinctive triple soundtrack, strong midrange pull, and IMU electronics more often found on higher-priced sport bikes—delivered in a relatively light 417 lb wet package that favors lively street riding over pure track specialization.