Every now and then a bike lands in our hands that can only be best described as raw fun. It’s fair to say sunshine and lollipops and everything that is good in this world are captured in the aura and substance of the 2024 Yamaha MT-09.
It’s just that kind of bike, with aggressive styling and a powertrain that will have you wearing a wry smile as you throw your leg over it, and a grin from ear-to-ear when you unleash it on some unsuspecting back road.
Refreshed for 2024, the new model features an altered riding position over previous generations, thanks to a lower profile petrol tank, lower handlebar height (adjustable), and new foot pegs that sit 30mm back and 10mm up.
It’s a bike that’s comfortable straight away, particularly thanks to the now split rider and pillion seats, which makes for a more sporty feel and let’s you get a better position in corners. There’s a small amount of storage under that seat too.
We could fit our wallet and phone in there, which isn’t too bad. More importantly, it’s easy to reach the ground with both feet, thanks to an 825mm seat height. In saying that, yours truly is 187cm tall, so that may be a little more challenging if you’re shorter.
Tested across a couple of weeks in a variety of conditions, the 2024 Yamaha MT-09 proved to be the most fun bike we’ve ridden in a long time. Don’t get us wrong, we love jumping onboard anything with two wheels, but this motorcycle, well we’d own one tomorrow.
From the sporty yet comfortable riding position, to the powerful, controllable engine and electronics package it ticks a lot of boxes. Get up and go comes from a CP3 890cc triple that offers an amazing mid-range, with smooth power delivery.
The standard exhaust system sounds good (an aftermarket one would sound epic), and you’ll also find an acoustic amplifier grille. Essentially, it sees speakers mounted on the tank to enhance the engine noise (a practice that’s very common in cars).
The latest spec quick shifter is awesome in both directions, but does cancel cruise control while upshifting. Three ride modes feature, including Street, Sport and Rain, and there’s a noticeable difference in power delivery between each.
Phenomenal handling comes from a 41mm KYB fork that is fully adjustable for preload, compression and re-bound, as well as a modified linkage setup and KYB shock setup at the rear. The combination makes for a more dynamic feel when cornering.
On the road, it feels planted and solid, inspiring confidence to push harder, particularly through some twisty bends. It’s a bit of a wheelie machine too, making for some proper fun in a controlled environment – where we were able to stand at speeds above 100km/h.
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 comes with a new Brembo radial master cylinder and twin 298mm hydraulic discs out front and a single 245mm disc on the back. ABS is standard on both, and while not mind-blowingly good, it does do the trick.
There are plenty of rider aids too, including the power tuner app, slide, traction and lift control, all of which can be set directly via the MT-09’s 5.0-inch full colour TFT display, or on the Yamaha MyRide app.
Cruise control can be operated in third gear and above, and once active, can be adjusted in 1km/h increments or as a steady increase/decrease, depending on whether you press or hold the button. The system is cancelled when the brakes, clutch or throttle is engaged.
Auto cancel blinkers are a nice touch too, as is the Type-C USB socket installed under the rider’s seat. In one of the bike’s few quirks, the blinker switch is an odd yet ergonomic shape. It’s unlike anything we’ve seen on a bike before.
The new MT-09 is available in three colours, including Midnight Cyan, Icon Blue and Tech Black (as tested). Priced from $17,399 ride away, you’re definitely getting a lot of bike for your money.
It’s backed by a 2-year unlimited kilometre warranty, and you can find out more on the Yamaha Motor Australia website, or by talking to your local dealership.
Our test bike was provided by Yamaha Motor Australia for independent review purposes.
