Yamaha took an interesting turn with the release of its new MT-09 last year, offering fans of triple-cylinder engines a chance to indulge in the firm’s latest riposte to the likes of the Triumph Street Triple, Kawasaki Z800 and MV Agusta Brutale.
Japanese performance bikes are usually associated with high-revving four-cylinder engines and this is what makes the Yamaha MT-09 rather special. It heralds Yamaha’s first triple-cylinder engine since the XS750 and XS850 in the late-1970s and early-1980s.
The Yamaha MT-09 features an 850 cm3, three-cylinder engine delivering 85 kW at 10 000 r/min and 88 N.m at 8 500 r/min. According to Yamaha the MT, tipping the scales at 188 kg (fully fuelled), is lighter than an YZF-R6.
A spokesperson for Yamaha South Africa confirmed that the MT-09 is now available here for R109 995. The price includes a two-year, unlimited mileage warranty.
Other details of the MT-09 include:
- Slim and lightweight CF die-cast aluminium frame
- Asymmetric CF die-cast aluminium swingarm
- Monocross rear suspension with horizontal shock
- Refined ergonomics “full-control” riding position
- YCC-T and D-MODE electronic control systems
- 298 mm floating front discs radial-mount calipers
- All-new lightweight 10-spoke alloy wheels
Watch the video below to see the MT-09 at it’s unruly best
Video courtesy: Autoevolution.com
