2019 Yamaha Tracer 900 GT First Ride Review | Ultimate Motorcycling

Yamaha has come out swinging in the middle-weight Sport Touring category with the 2019 Yamaha Tracer 900 GT. An evolution of the popular Yamaha FJ-09, the Tracer 900 GT is the top-spec model within the revamped Tracer lineup that comes with plenty of goodies that Sport Touring enthusiasts will be glad to have in their bag of tricks.
Among those standard features are an all-new TFT display, quickshifter, heated grips, cruise control, center stand, and integrated luggage.
At the heart of the 2019 Yamaha Tracer 900 GT sits the stellar 847cc CP3 engine that's been keeping Yamaha afficianados happy since its introduction on the MT-09, several years ago. Yamaha didn't simply plop that engine in the Tracer lineup without any changes - engineers gave the 847cc engine found in the tracer machines its own fuel mapping to suit its Sport Touring duties.
Riders will be pouring the throttle on and making use of the ample torque on tap, supported by a crisp ride-by-wire system. Complete with three engine maps, A, Standard, and B; owners will be able tune throttle response to their liking easily.
Additionally, the Yamaha Tracers feature three-level traction control, and non-adjustable ABS.
One of the biggest changes in regards to the Tracer 900 GT is the move to a fully adjustable KYB fork and a KYB shock featuring remote spring pre-load adjustment, as well as rebound damping adjustment. Compression damping adjustment is not available on the shock, unfortunately.
Other chassis updates include a substantially longer swingarm, that extends the wheelbase of the Tracer bikes just shy of 60-inches. Yamaha engineers wanted to create an incredibly stable, yet compliant and sporty machine - and to their credit, that's exactly what they've done.
Ergonomically, the Tracer 900 and 900 GT have been given slight revisions in comparison with the now defunct FJ-09. It its lowest position, the Tracer's seat height is an amicable 33.5-inches. Yamaha has also revised the shape of both saddles aboard the Tracer 900 and 900 GT, moving to a multi-density foam and revised shape.
Passenger comfort hasn't been forgotten either. Yamaha engineers have extended the passenger footpeg lengths by roughly 30mm, giving your compatriot a little more leg room. The downside is that they directly conflict with the heels of the pilot and can make for awkward foot placement. However, they can be removed, so if you're going to ride without a partner, you'll never have that issue.
Coinciding with the ergonomic changes is a complete overhaul in styling. Yamaha has pushed towards a more mature design ethos from the front to pack, moving away from the MT-09 and FJ-09 styling cues.
At 12,999, the Tracer 900 GT is a bit more expensive than the base model Tracer 900. However, given all of the add-ons, one could argue that you're getting your monies worth. Overall, the 2019 Yamaha Tracer 900 GT builds on what we appreciated about the FJ-09 - but with more stability, a stellar engine, charming new looks, and extra goodies that we can all appreciate.
Check out our full 2019 Yamaha Tracer 900 GT Review! - ultimatemotorcycling.com/2018...
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[@richardcollins586]

Great looking, great value for a lot of bike. It’s the one bike solution really, just does everything you’ll ever want.

[@reerbaadia1896]

If you can only afford one bike. Thus is it. Touring, twisties and track.

[@jhawk3910]

Fantastic review! Lots of great info.

[@djbgatekeeper]

Great review thanks, test ride being booked this week 👍

[@Milkman-xp3nj]

Just bought this bike a few weeks ago! Absolutely amazing. Did 650 miles within the first 2 days I had it and was still comfortable. Only thing I need is the touring windshield. Being 6’2 I get a little buffeting at highway speed with stock windshield. All in all the bike feels perfect for long trips and having the amazing power and handling confidence you get with it it really is a jack of all trades bike!

[@garystuteville3948]

I want one of these bikes so bad lm likening every thing about it it's just being able to afford it

[@kee7678]

Im looking at a used GS, or the Tracer 900 GT. I love the thought of taking it down to Baja, but I'll do that 1 to 2 times a year maybe. 90% will be running around town on paved roads. Maybe a tire change could handle 90% of Baja roads...

[@NickMasseyRideon]

wow sounds nice too, nice exhaust note

[@Neeko_Z]

Good review 👍🏼👍🏼

[@stanleykania7184]

Great job.. very nice bike

[@danash2378]

Upgrading my Yamaha 700 Tracer to the 2019 900 GT Tracer roll on the 1st of March can't wait good review 👍

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey Dan, You're going to have a lot of fun, be safe out there! - Nic

[@danash2378]

Cheers nic 👍

[@davidfraley1429]

nice had the fj09 looks like a nice improvement

[@rockafella1690]

Those blinkers look so cool 🤔

[@paintup46]

rockafella1690 with the panniers removed, I was thinking the same thing🤦🏻‍♂️

[@delikurt6055]

fantastic bike

[@sighheinrich]

Tracer Goo GT.. Cant unsee that, and I own one of these bikes.

[@bepriceless]

I'm thinking about getting this bike. Since you have one, what are the negatives aspects of it?

[@BMWWolf]

I can get one of these on sale. But really wanted the 700 tenere for its dual purpose nature. Ugh what do I do?

[@masterspin7796]

Hell of a bargain if you want to do some one up touring, It's a poor mans MV Agusta "tourismo veloce"....Myself, Im moving up to a Super Duke GT and hitting the road...

[@JW-gj6kw]

Love this bike. How fast can I change the 1985 legacy turn indicators?

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey Jeff, Swapping out the indicators or adding a tail tidy is incredibly easy to do on these bikes. There are plenty of companies that make replacements for this, so if you aren't happy with the stock option, there will be something available for you. Take care! - Nic

[@SaabAholic]

Excellent review! I may have to sell my 2009 FJR1300 and get one of these!

[@ronmimnaugh7674]

You are the first person that I ever heard of that wanted to go back to a chain from a shaft for touring

[@digudi2008]

Where is this scenery road at the 1:11? Beautiful scenery. Thanks for the video

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hi Ricardo, We were outside Stevenson, Washington. I'm not entirely sure of the routes we were on - but judging from our ride during that trip, if you pick just about any mountain road, you'll be in good shape. Take care! - Nic

[@r12rtpilot]

Tracer or Versys....I cannot decide! Thanks for the great video.

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey Rides, Roads, and Eats! Whether you're talking about the older Tracer models or the thoroughly updated 2021 machine, sticking with the Tracer is a solid bet. Take care! - Nic

[@JENX1976]

What is the fuel range?

[@kagolko]

2:22 - for that kind of price I would expect rear signal lights to be at least a little bit more sturdy..🤦‍♂️

[@keithjohnston8629]

Just about everything I’m looking for in a midsize sport touring bike. I’d like a little more fuel capacity and shaft drive (I’m not a go real fast type). Turn signals? I’m not looking at them when I ride, as long as everyone around me can see ‘em, I’m good with that. I’m wondering why they don’t call it an 850...

[@urtoastbadvised]

I just wanna go fast and Im 56 years old ! I thinkI found my next bike!

[@kee7678]

@@urtoastbadvised 53 and I think this is mine too....was looking at a used GS...but might get this instead.

[@49ProRatStreet]

I'd enjoy your opinion of the new BMW F900XR in comparison to the Tracer GT. I look forward to rider reports on this new bike.

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey Paul, Glad you mentioned it! Those are directly comparable bikes and we'll look into putting something together in 2020. Take care! - Nic

[@michaelkuszek5372]

What about the fueling? Some reviewers said it was jerky and some made no mention. I do hate the on hard and off hard fueling that Yamaha has on some models.What was your take on this?

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey Michael, It depends on the mode your in. A mode is the most aggressive and if you're not used to the throttle application on sport machines, it will seem abrupt. 'A' mode is something that I stuck with when in the canyons and I knew I'd be twisting the grip a lot, which tends to mask jerky throttle issues. At lower RPM and when traveling from stop light to stop light, 'A' mode's aggressive response can make that initial throttle application sharp. Standard mode is fairly average, if memory serves me correctly, and 'B' mode is the touring mode. 'Standard' and 'B' mode won't give you any sort of abrupt or jerky throttle response. Hope this helps! - Nic

[@TheDeceptikron]

Can the windscreen and slider thingy be completely removed to give the bike a more naked look? Im looking at buying 1 of these next week, and I already own a 2017 SV650 (naked) and I like the look of naked bikes with no wind protection and Im also well adjusted to highway riding without a windscreen. Also, are the hangers on both sides removable for the pillion footpegs? As I highly doubt Im going to have a passenger and I prefer not to have passenger pegs/hangers if I can help it. Another thing, does the TFT display have a night mode and does it have multiple display modes that you can choose from like the Triumph Street Triple RS does?

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey The Deceptikron, You could remove the windscreen on any motorcycle, although it wasn't designed to do that, so you'd be exposing wiring/mounts/etc. I did a bit of digging around and it doesn't seem that the aftermarket has come up with a solution for that. I actually prefer the look of naked machines, too but wind protection at higher speed and over longer distances is always nice. As far as I know, the passenger footpegs can be removed. They're bolted on and I don't believe they're welded in place. The TFT does have a night/low-light mode and if I remember correctly, there is an option or two. The Street Triple RS has the most modes and custom settings that I've seen on the market - it's in a class of its own. The Tracer 900GT dash looks sharp and gets the job done, but doesn't have that level of customization. Hope this helps! - Nic

[@TheDeceptikron]

@@ultimatemotorcycling Thanks mate for the in depth answer, I have since been for a ride of a base model Tracer 900 and there were more things I disliked about it than things I did, things that won't be any different on the GT model.

[@tomf5376]

How tall is the rider in this video? When I sat on it with the lowest seat setting the height seemed a little too tall (I am 5' 10"). Thanks!

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hi T, I'm 5'10'' with a 32'' inseam. Your inseam length is what determines how you'll be able to reach the ground. It's been a little while since I've been on the Tracer 900 GT, but I don't remember having any issues in that regard. Also, wearing proper motorcycle boots will always add a bit of height, making your reach a little longer. Take care! - Nic

[@stanleykania7184]

I own a Honda st1300 and a 900 Kawasaki Vulcan classic and think about selling both to get one of these..

[@tboutwell123]

Stanley Kania I own the st1300 and I’m currently selling it to get one.

[@MarijnKramer13]

It also hase cruisecontrol, in Europa at least

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey Marijn, That's a standard feature on across all markets. It's quite helpful on a bike like this! Take care! - Nic

[@vertigo4ubob704]

Bike camera 2 screens with no riding sound review. How is looking through that rib all day working out long term? Metrics but in inches was alarming.

[@juniorandrade8153]

Massa...

[@petewebb6952]

Will you be reviewing 2020 Tracer 700?

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey Pete, Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like the Tracer 700 will be available in the United States, so we won't have access to it. We enjoy the MT-07 variants quite a bit, so it's disappointing that the Tracer 700 isn't coming to the states. Take care! - Nic

[@MisterSuki]

Been shopping. Planning on grabbing the Tracer 900 GT Spring 2020 for plans to explore America. Checked the Multistrada 950 but I think Yamaha wins in value.

[@kee7678]

What did you get?

[@MisterSuki]

@@kee7678 Change in strategy. Came across a new 2018 Suzuki Vstrom 1000XT well discounted. Couldn't pass it up. Have a 2018 Suzuki SV650 which sold me on the Suzuki v twins. Vstrom 1000 pulls like a freight train. Very happy with it.

[@kee7678]

@@MisterSuki NEW 2018 ? NICE !!! I"m a former Szki 650 myself. Vstrom is great on great deals like 2018 new if you can find one.

[@santoyusof3310]

Fuel tank capacity? Full tank mileage?

[@BruceSteever]

4.8 US gal, 44 mpg

[@JW-gj6kw]

Hipster Sasquatch at 2:55

[@pauleduardjavier6003]

Hello how about sa versys 1000se. What would you recommend sport tour bike versys 1kse or tracer900? 😊

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey Paul, That'd be a good comparison, actually! I've ridden both bikes but they each have their own personalities. I'd say the Tracer 900 is definitely a bit sportier, smaller, and more fun in the canyons. The Kawasaki might be better for super-long-distance riding as it has a slightly larger wheelbase and the four-cylinder 1000cc engine gives you a bit more top-end power for those grueling long-haul rides. In the end, I think it'd best to visit your dealer and jump on either of them to see what fits you best. I'd be leaning towards the Tracer 900 GT because of the sporty motor and chassis, but that's just me. However, the Kawasaki has electronic suspension, more luggage capacity and other amenities that could make it more appealing for touring. Hope this helps! - Nic

[@kee7678]

@@ultimatemotorcycling The Tracer 900 GT is less $$$

[@fauzimnoor3430]

just change the signals if u dont like it

[@byn135]

put it side by side with a ducati multi950, which one would stand out....?

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey Steve, Tough question! Looks like we'll need to do a comparison! 🤔

[@byn135]

Ultimate Motorcycling will definitely look forward to your comparison

[@FelaketDogan82]

At 2:55 mermaid came out of river. Right side.

[@kotagrey]

Is the 2019 the same as the 2018?

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hey Kotagrey, The 2018 and 2019 models are different from one another. The biggest physical change that you'll feel is the longer swingarm on the 2019, which increases the wheelbase and gives the bike more stability, overall. On top of that there are a handful of styling updates, as well as comfort updates. The '19 model year is a definite step forward for the Tracer line. Take care! - Nic

[@kotagrey]

Thanks!

[@arthurpendragon9079]

With belt or shaft drive, this would be perfect.

[@stuarthunter7559]

Needs lean abs and traction control like the ktm in this day and age

[@craigschaffer828]

Can't swing some less obtrusive LED turn signals? Other than that it's a attractive package!

[@craigschaffer828]

You Tuber Obviously, I do know what I’m talking about. I am not the only one who thinks they look cheap, but you seem to be the only one supporting them, on every post questioning there use on this otherwise good looking package.

[@bepriceless]

847? Why not call it an 850 like it should be?

[@mortenviking3196]

we talk security her!

[@mortenviking3196]

I cant understand that japanese bikes only have one light on ride ? Thats why i bought a ducati multi

[@MrWheelieMan]

Is that the reason why you bought a over expensive bike? Hilarious

[@Ritalie]

"You don't have do a lot of shifting. You can really rely on the torque." What it really means is, the gearing is too low. That's why you don't need to shift, because 6th gear is good down to 20 mph in most modern bikes. My feeling is, we should stop rewarding these companies for not giving people an overdrive. Modern engines should be turning 2800 rpms at 70 mph, not 5000 rpms. Yamaha needs to fix their low gears immedietely.

[@timcarter7051]

Bike is not $12,999.00 otd

[@kee7678]

what is it?

[@carlton90602]

Why is there an opening by the foot peg and chain? ⚠️

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

Hi Carlton90602, I had to look closely at images of the Tracer to actually pick that up, but I see what you're saying. I also looked at the MT-09 and XSR900; the gap is there. That said, I've ridden all three of those bikes quite a bit and the chain does have adequate protection. The hell guard and other guards will prevent you from making contact with the chain. Take care! - Nic

[@carlton90602]

@@ultimatemotorcycling thanks, I was just wondering if there was any danger of getting a pant leg sucked in. I guess not. I want this bike but the cost is making me hesitate. The new cb1000r comes to about the same with my trade in. 🤔

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

@@carlton90602 That's a tough call, but one thing we always tell our viewers is to head down to the dealer and actually sit on the bikes they're interested in. Something as simple as the seating position could be a deal breaker for some riders. The next thing I'd genuinely think about before buying is the type of riding you'll be doing. The CB1000R and Tracer 900 GT are fairly different. They're both upright, but one is designed to be an upright, casual standard bike, while the other has touring capabilities. If you're planning on riding long distances or taking weekend trips, I'd say that the Tracer 900 GT is ready to go from the moment you roll it out of the dealer. The CB1000R might feel a bit sportier, but it won't have that. However, it'll give you more wiggle room in the canyons and even the occasional trackday. Hope this helps! - Nic

[@carlton90602]

@@ultimatemotorcycling I'm just a daily commuter on the fwy. 22miles each way. 44 a day. The Tracer900 has a bigger gas tank and better riding position. Should be an easy call huh. Nope! Thanks Mr. Nic

[@ultimatemotorcycling]

@@carlton90602 In that case, I'd be leaning towards the GT. It has bags, heated grips, etc. All of those things are great for commuters.

[@Harlin67]

Nice review, also nice to see Bill Bailey in there also kzbin.info/www/bejne/opeynoKXrMh-iKs

[@hANNAbONE]

Momma Yamaha needs to dump the 1980 turn signals.

[@heretohear8662]

Love the look of the bike, but those colors are terrible! JMO.

[@nolinchitnis]

Styling of the bike is terrible. It just doesnt look like a premium bike. Just look at those corny side indicators dangling at speed. Why cant Yamaha get some style and panache into its product design?

[@Gautam454]

I think it looks alright and is significantly cheaper than the competition so no complaints.