What’s going on in Iwata? Well whatever it is, it’s great news for the rest of us. Over the past 5 weeks or so Yamaha have wowed us with two of the most revolutionary bikes to come out of the Japan for years.
The MT09 with it’s 850cc triple giving good power, and it’s scrapyard/parts bin looks dividing opinion. Although we can see it selling well in France and Italy as it has a Supermoto kind of look about the front end that they love.
It rides well for it’s price, and although the different riding modes are largely redundant, it’s something else to fiddle with. The dash is classy if a little small, and there are loads of great little design touches. The whole package is classy in the flesh, but still looks a little like it’s been in a front end shunt and had a different headlight put on.
Last night however, Yamaha launched the MT07, complete with crazy opening video
This tells us to ride up our dark side, but this seems unlikely with a 700cc parallel twin. Though we may mock it for not having as much power as the latest super sport offerings, that’s kind of missing the point.
It’s well and truly taking the fight to the funky ER6, and the uninspiring SV650/Gladius.
Both of these bikes are absolutely ideal for city slicking. Not too much power, high bars, and an upright riding position to give a good view. Both have punchy motors, and are geared to make the most of it.
Now we have to wonder what will be next from the MT range? A naked bike using the motor from the crossplane R1 to replace the FZ1? We can only dream.
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