Imagine if there was a naked bike that was light weight, had agile handling, felt sporty, and yet was learner approved. There is, in fact there’s a couple, but the king, or queen if you prefer, is surely the Yamaha MT-07LA.
Building on 10 years of legacy, the 2025 edition sees its biggest update yet, with a whole host of changes (more on those in a moment). First, let’s talk about the powerplant – in this case the 655cc version of Yamaha’s iconic CP2 engine (38.3kW/57.5Nm).
With a reputation for performance and a unique engine note that comes thanks to its uneven firing order, the MT-07LA now sports an acoustic amplifier to make it sound even better. The growl is perfect, and will have your average learner grinning from ear-to-ear.
That was certainly the case for this writer, who made the transition from a Learner’s Permit to a Provisional License while testing this particular bike (and damn, does it feel good to swap those plates over).
The powerplant is a reduced capacity version of the HO offering and while in many cases, that would make for a lesser riding experience, it’s not the case here. It’s a bike Yamaha describes as being born from the ‘dark side’ of Japan.
We’re not sure what that actually means, and whether the country has a deep, haunting musical album in its midst, but regardless, the MT-07LA certainly delivers in spades when it comes to a thrilling ride.
Now featuring radial-mounted front brake calipers, paired to dual 298mm discs with ABS, with a 245mm single disc at the rear (again with ABS), stopping power is solid, with strong bite when pulling the forward lever. Pushing the rear pedal does a decent job too.
A 41mm inverted fork with 130mm of travel and a single swingarm (linked) feature at the front and rear, with identical travel at the back. It’s adjustable for both pre-load and rebound damping.
The combination creates a package that makes it easy to throw the MT-07LA through corners on some twisty roads, but still remain sensible enough when riding in traffic. It’s impressive for a learner bike.
Lightweight SpinForged wheels adorn a stripped back design, which is new for 2025, and makes it look meaner (or perhaps cooler) than before, while a revised chassis provides improved ergonomics (more on that shortly).
The new model also features Yamaha’s ‘chip’ controlled throttle and ride control, introducing ride-by-wire for a smoother response in terms of power delivery, and two riding modes (Street and Custom).
In a first for the learner approved MT-07, there’s also traction control. It adds to the capability of the bike, especially in the wet, which is confidence inspiring if you’re new to the motorcycle game.
The addition of an assist/slipper clutch smooths downshifts in the constant-mesh 6-speed manual transmission, although we did find it a little grabby taking off in first, and in the shift from first to second.
That said, a more experienced rider may find the transition easier. All-in-all though, it’s a good package that would benefit greatly from the addition (as standard) of the the optional up-and-down quick shifter. That inclusion would nearly make this bike perfect.
Lighter than before, the 2025 Yamaha MT-07LA tips the scales at 183kg (wet), and features a 5.0-inch TFT display that’s easy to read and use on the fly. It’s impressively bright in direct sunlight, and is connected to redesigned switch gear.
It’s fairly unique in its design when compared to rivals (although very car steering wheel like in terms of the joystick’s functionality), but once you get the hang of it, is simple to use, and makes it easy to navigate your way around the screen.
Smartphone connectivity is provided via the MyRide app, with turn-by-turn navigation available through the Garmin StreetCross app. The latter is handy but did randomly decided to turn itself off (which is not the bike’s fault).
Compact LED headlights and a redesigned tail light feature on a bike that’s now 18mm wider, 22mm lower and 9.3mm longer, making it feel bigger than it actually is. Its 805mm seat height makes it accessible to most riders.
As a rider who stands 183cm tall (and is fairly hefty in the weight department), the new rider triangle and upright seating position created by the revised design of the MT-07LA certainly delivers decent comfort, but with one caveat.
We’d love to see more padding in the new two-piece seat. This bike is an exceptional commuter, but for those who’d like to take it on a longer ride, the joy of riding wanes a little after about two hours.
In an odd way that’s probably a good reminder to get off and rest in line with safe riding recommendations, but if you don’t have butt padding, you’ll certainly feel it. That aside, lower foot pegs improve comfort, as does the narrower 14-litre fuel tank.
For those on a full license, we’re told the narrow handlebars make it super easy to lane filter. There’s also a little bit of wind buffeting at highway speeds, but it’s not so bad as to be disconcerting or off-putting.
Overall, the MT-07LA is now a much improved offering over its previous incarnations, ensuring it remains a great learner bike, particularly for those who are looking for more power than a 350cc or 400cc offering.
It’s updated styling and swag of new goodies also mean it’s a capable commuter, and outstanding for spirited riding. Tested here in Tech Black, it’s also available in Icon Blue and Ice Storm.
Priced from $14,899 ride away, it’s backed by a 3-year unlimited kilometre warranty. You can find out more by visiting the Yamaha Motorcycles Australia website, or by talking to your local dealership.
Our test bike was provided by Yamaha Motor Australia for independent review purposes.
