Yamaha 2022 MT-09

Yamaha has finally unveiled the 2021 MT-09. It’s been thoroughly reworked with a larger engine, lighter frame and swingarm as well as better features and mechanicals. The entire look of the bike has been changed, although, it seems a bit too outlandish in our opinion. Nonetheless, it's powered by a larger 889cc inline three-cylinder DOHC liquid-cooled EU5-compliant engine. It now makes 119PS at 10,000rpm and 93Nm at 7,000rpm -- 4PS and 5.5Nm more than the outgoing model. It gets a bi-directional quickshifter and a slip and assist clutch as standard. 

Electronic rider aids include a 6-axis IMU with lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, wheelie and brake control, and switchable rider modes. The 2021 MT-09 also gets a 3.5-inch full-colour TFT console.

The MT-09 comes equipped with a new lightweight die-cast aluminium Deltabox chassis and a swingarm which weigh 2.3kg less than before. Adding to the weight savings is a 1.5kg lighter die-cast aluminium subframe. Even the shape of the fuel tank and the seat have been revised for better feel and feedback. 

In terms of underpinnings, the MT-09 uses a KYB USD fork which is fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping. The rear monoshock from KYB gets the same adjustability. The bike is anchored by dual 298mm front discs, mated to Nissin radially mounted calipers along with a single disc at the rear. 

Expect the 2021 MT-09 to carry a hefty premium over the current-gen model which costs Rs 10,64,615. It will be available in three colours: Storm Fluo, Icon Blue and Tech Black. The updated MT-09 is expected to be launched in India sometime next year. It’ll compete against the likes of the Kawasaki Z900, Triumph Street Triple R, BMW F 900 R and the KTM 790 Duke.