After years of offering 4-cylinder roadsters (like all Japanese), Yamaha has given the category a real boost with the MT-09 and its dazzling 3-cylinder engine. The bike's compact size, powerful engine with plenty of character, and suspension that's quickly overtaken by the CP3's fiery power make it a highly enjoyable machine that can quickly turn the road into a rodeo. What's more, Yamaha priced it aggressively, fueling its immediate and runaway success. In 2016, traction control is installed.
In 2017, the MT-09 received a facelift to make it sharper and more aggressive. The suspension is slightly improved and the electronics are strengthened, notably with the arrival of a shifter.
2021 plays the provocative card with a completely revised design, much debated and much discussed. The engine gains 42 cm3, 4 horsepower and a little torque. The MT-09 features a completely new frame and much improved handling, with new Kayaba suspension and forged aluminum wheels. A (too) small TFT instrument panel replaces the LCD instrumentation, and electronics take a leap forward: inertial unit, SCS glide control, LIFt wheelinh control and BC brake control.
The MT-09 enters its 4th generation in 2024. The styling becomes a little less radical, while the riding aids become even more powerful. With 5 riding modes, a bigger, nicer TFT screen, cruise control and BSR rear slip control.
