5 Reasons I Bought a 2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP (EP.1)

[@BigRockMoto]

Stay tuned for an in-depth review of the MT-09 as well as detailed comparisons to all the mid-weight naked competitors! 🏍TODAY’S GEAR: ⚡ Schuberth C3 Pro Helmet : imp.i104546.net/ZQrND1 ⚡ REV’IT! Hyperspeed 2 Air Jkt: imp.i104546.net/eKREy6 ⚡ REV’IT! Metis 2 Glove : imp.i104546.net/B0Kyq0 ⚡ Alpinestars SMX Boot: imp.i104546.net/2rz6YM 🏍BEHIND THE SCENES / DISCORD SERVER / CHAT WITH ME! ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia 🏍 SUPPORT BIG ROCK MOTO BY USING MY AFFILIATE LINKS! ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@HECTBP123]

Awesome! Can you talk about handle bar footpegs etc vibrations if there are any?

[@giovanniricci4369]

As a former Triumph 765 RS and Superduke Evo owner, I can agree this is a well balanced and very enjoyable bike. Congratulations ✌️

[@c.g.c2067]

I personally went for the xsr900 2023 in Legend Blue. Great motorcycle, longer rear swing arm and pannier mounts.

[@cp4512]

Great bike and I enjoyed the test ride, but I enjoyed the test ride of the Street Triple RS more and bought that. I think I would have still been very happy with the MT-09 SP.

[@dodzillad185]

I'm glad @BigRockMoto is also telling the numbers in metric system. Thank you so much!

[@imopn]

+1

[@CPLBSS88]

Of only there was a way to easily convert it... like the hundreds of online calculators.. 😂

[@walterjohnson2031]

I set out to purchase a HONDA CB650R but ran into available problem in my area. Found one MT09 and bought it as a stop gap. After riding it I am very happy with it. Smooth, power everywhere in the RPM range. Pulls stronger than liter bikes from only a few years ago. Quality and engineering visible in every aspect of this bike. Light and balanced to absolute perfection over any normal road surface. The bang for the buck on the MT09 is unbeatable by anything else you can find on today’s market.

[@X-cript]

Where are you from? I have placed a booking fee for Honda CB650R and have been waiting for ages due to lack of stock availability and its likely it will be placed with the hornet next year which i am not keen at all. Am looking at other bikes that has at least 3 cylinder or inline 4. am abit interested in this mt 09 but the design is rather....MEH compared to cb650r

[@walterjohnson2031]

@@X-cript you are having the same problem I had, no CB650R new for sale. Couple of 13 and 19 thousand miles used with near new price on them. I am in the central part of Alabama and bikes are very hard to come by. I have owned a number of inline 4s from the big 4 and loved them. So I wanted one last one to finish a great era in motorcycle history. I bought the MT09 Yamaha and like all bikes it isn’t perfect but the nit picky little things are very minor. Since I got it the pluses in real world use far out weigh any minuses I have encountered to this point. Better spread of torque across the RPM range allows good street use. RPM abilities with a great pull from the basement all the way to the roof makes a track day feel very special. Keep your cool on the street and get over 200 miles on a tank of gas. I am so glad I gave the MT09 a chance as I would have missed a great bike.

[@Navzar99]

I was exactly in the same spot last year lol. Wanted a 2021+ CBR/CB650r but ended up with a 2021 MT09 and the bike is a joy to ride. I was worried a bit because of the headlight but when I first saw it in the delivery truck I fell in love😅. Was surprised how good the bike looked with a little wind deflector after seeing it in person

[@DocMagoo]

There really must be something to these MT-09 yamahas. Two of my favourite KZbinrs have recently purchased them (Ian @ Big Rock and Greg @ Motojitsu) and both are previous owners of the 1250GS, interesting... I recently bought a 1250GS and I love it, so there's no way I'm going to even look at an MT-09. I just don't want to risk being bitten by that CP3 bug hahaha. Congratulations on the new toy by the way, hope you enjoy it.

[@vancuy]

Yamaha perfected it with Gen 3 model. I love my SP. I'm not surprised.

[@anxiousappliance]

The good thing about the 1200gs is that it makes most every other motorcycle seem exciting.

[@HistoryofLies-d8v]

You are the 2nd biker youtuber I watch that recently bought a Mt09 SP. It is interesting how light that bike is for its power, not a whole lot more weight than the mt03, that is impressive.

[@petergruening2893]

Bought my 2021 MT-09 SP in January 2022, but had to wait until May 2022 to ride it due to the harsh winter in Canada. Great value for the money and you can't beat the sound of the triple with the throttle pinned and using the quick shifter. Cruise control is a bonus!

[@alfixall]

Do you know if they changed anything from 2021 to 2022 and 2023?

[@petergruening2893]

I believe the Canadian versions for those three years are all the same@@alfixall

[@alfixall]

Thanks!

[@ablowick]

a comparison with why you chose this over the Tracer 9 GT or GT+ in the final review would be interesting (apart from the obvious cost saving )

[@Magicinstalls]

Cruise control is great, but the tracer 9 GT+ radar cruise control is awesome!

[@lestersmyth692]

No doubt about it the Yamaha CP3 engine is a peach, the induction noise is addictive 👍

[@leftymike8730]

Great bike! You definitely made the right choice, the other bikes you mentioned are all great too but having ridden them I can tell you the MT-09 is the most comfortable and it sounds like that was a major factor for you.

[@MyRandomLife247]

I bought mine in October 2021. I'm currently selling it to buy an ADV bike. But it's the most fun bike I've ever owned! I did a 4500km road trip from Adelaide to Sydney on mine and it was an absolute blast! Nothing beats it for price in terms of the features. Cruise Control sealed the deal for me as well!

[@ChavsADV]

We're in the same boat. I bought a z900rs in 2021 and after 13000 miles of fun and trips I've realized a tiger can do everything the Z can do 99% of the time and more.

[@BigRockMoto]

Very nice!

[@jbean530]

I thought the Z909rs was Kawasaki, not Yami.

[@ChavsADV]

@@jbean530 It is a Kawasaki but similar class of bike. Naked torquey sporty upright. The rs is clearly the retro version of the z900 which is the direct competitor for the mt-09. It's a great looking bike and I romanticized the idea of owning one and touring on it with my wife to mountains where we could have some fun... And we did at the cost of comfort haha. Being realistic about my goals the tiger gt pro is a better bike.

[@chadridsdale9970]

What kind of highway fuel range are people getting? I just sold my 03 fz1 for a 16 st1200. The st is way less fun but so much comfier on the highway. I can easy put double the trip miles on it. I never ever dreamed of wanting cruise control on a bike the st has it and I would not go back

[@AdventureLife714]

Looking forward to this. I'm about to pull the trigger on an MT-10.

[@narayankannan9679]

This is also a very fuel efficient engine. In the tracer 9gt, I’ve even pushed it to 30kmpl at a steady 90-100kmph. In moderate traffic it will return 21-23kmpl

[@MrBCRC]

Until you get a low quality tune put on it that just chases peak horsepower

[@impact0r]

Who the hell uses kmpl? L/100km is what everyone uses.

[@DanilErofeev]

​@@impact0rcame to say the same😂

[@anirudhs9200]

@@impact0rAmericans use Corgis per Elephant

[@TheDanSebastian]

Hello Ian! Have you found the front end of this bike to feel kind of light and not confidence inspiring in high speeds? I have that impression every time I ride an MT 09, any generation... Thanks for the great content as always! Cheers

[@7925Joe]

Can't wait to see what you'll do with it for touring as you mentioned!!! Maybe you'll fit a good windscreen for protection and other good things! I'll enjoy seing your comments on that bike! Wish I had cruise on my new Triumph Tiger Sport 660 that I got for touring and riding 2 up with my kids. I'm now wondering if I should have considered the MT-09 SP as an option... I guess I'll see when you review it in dept, like usual!

[@Myrmexx]

Is this random that all my favorite moto channels are buying this exact bike? Enjoy the bike and stay safe! Looking forward to the review.

[@OrangeGenerator]

it's a popular bike. i owned one for several months. it's great. but it's definitely what it is.... a short wheelbase riot of a street bike. it's not that good for long distance due to the lack of wind protection, the seat gets old after 2.5 hours, it's also a fairly vibey bike (buzzes through bars and pegs). The front end is so light even with the redesign. I loved it, but not good for long bumpy country roads. It would make a lot of sense in a city where you hit up the twisties on the weekends so like every other naked really. I have test ridden the 2024 Tracer 9 GT+ and yeah it's the same bike with better wind protection and a bit more stability. I am not sold yet though....

[@BikesDrones]

@@OrangeGenerator So few people menton how vibey the bike is. It is the most prominent feature.

[@italyguy08]

@@BikesDrones %100, honestly the cruise control is great to allow your hands to get their feeling back. I'm light on the grips and if I'm not riding hard and varying my RPM range then my hands go quite numb. The seat for me gets to be uncomfortable after about an hour, for context I'm 6' tall and 200lbs. All of these issues go away at the track and riding hard, but it's not the cruiser bike I built up in my head. Still an awesome bike, I just have to change my mindset as to what I want this bike to be, weekend canyon carver. Yup. Mid-Long distance cruiser? Not really.

[@jasonb6570]

MT09 SP is my dream bike at the moment. Hopefully going to get one next year if I can find one.

[@firehouse6226]

Yeah, if you can find one.

[@Sasquatchflow]

Great review! I like the explanation on how the electronics work I haven’t seen a better review 🤙🏻🇨🇦

[@danco6010]

I owe this bike, made close to 12k km from may with it. It's a great machine; in Europe (at least were i live the MT09 SP is 200euro more expensive than the Street Triple RS), i bought the bike because the RS was not in the stock and because i was concern about the lack of braking power/jerky throttle(they fixed this) and the fact that this bike actually pushes you to ride like a hooligan (maybe it's just me?). I don't regret the decision i think if you upgrade the brakes it's the best bike in the class, even without them it's still the best bang for the buck.

[@rolan2dr]

Triumph is supposed to be very reliable also?

[@SigmaSheepdog]

No, Ian, you didn't make a mistake at all. Though I don't own one, I do have a considerable amount of seat time on the MT-09SP. I feel that it is a phenominal motorcycle at a great price, and there is no reason to look any further. I would love to have one, but I have chosen to keep my '19 Tracer 900 GT only because it has a bit more versatility when it comes to riding longer distances.

[@jbean530]

Yup. I really like my street triple, but I keep looking at the 900 Yamaha’s. FJ vs MT vs Tracer. Good video.

[@gsm_liv8980]

I tested the standard 09, and was pleasantly surprised with it. It is extremely nimble, the triple sounds glorious (even tho I'm not a triple guy), and the ergos are supremely comfy. My assumption was that the bike was gonna be hard to ride sensibly due to its power, but it is very well-mannered around town and tight roads. The only thing that may be improved is the initial throttle response being a little harsh, but this may very well be my next bike.

[@paulhope3401]

On the Gen3 MT09 try mode 3 and it reduces throttle sensitivity by a nice amount... or mode 4 if you also only want 500cc ish power... or if its wet. I find mode 2 to be a good compromise when just out having fun, occasionally mode 3 around town when I'm feeling fatigued after a long ride.

[@gsm_liv8980]

@@paulhope3401 I see. I only used mode two on the test bike I was on. Will try other modes next time for sure. Such a wonderful bike.

[@JosephStanek-jj3uo]

Mode 2 traction control 3...

[@wine_country_moto]

Glad to see this bike on the channel. I like the range of bikes. Budget all the way to premium. Maybe we’ll see a Z H2 , a superduke 1290 R or even a M1000R on this channel one day. But I’d suspect they won’t just loan those out! 😂

[@5691Mark]

This bike has been on my wish list since last summer. Definitely a fun additional to my Super Tenere,

[@ryanmalone2681]

Has to be the MT-10 SP for me. Can’t beat the sound of that cross plane.

[@BigRockMoto]

i rode an MT10 after I bought my MT09, yeah, it sounds amazing, but the MT09 is enough bike for me

[@Navillus2273]

Yep Mt-09 is sweet, however, once you have ridden this back to back with the MT-10, there is no contest. MT-10 all............the way.

[@impact0r]

​@@Navillus2273 I've been riding MT10SP aggressively for 3 seasons now (dyno-tuned, Arrow exhaust, I am 194cm tall). I recently tested base 2014 MT07 and found it more fun on regular country roads. That made me think of going for MT09SP (begrudgingly because of the awful looking front)... but then I remembered there is Duke 890r! Duh!

[@dougiequick1]

I have both CP3 and CP4 I am love with the CP3 so at first the MT-10's CP4 seem a bit too rough and growly but 2 months later? I finally GET the CP4 and love it to bits even though the appreciation is more wraped around that POWER! I really do love em both dearly however

[@dougiequick1]

If the MT09 is the Mountain Banchee in Avatar film franchise? Then the MT-10 is the Toruk! You know similar to the regular Mountain Banchees that all of Warrirs use for aerial warfare? ....Yes Toruk is similar but WAY WAY WAY more bad ass! Scary Apex predator BEAST type bad ass! IMHO THAT is the MT-10 compared to the CP3 powered bikes! The MT-09 riders will require high skills and/or tighter twisties and NO long straights to keep from being utterly CONSUMED by the CP4 powered Toruk BEAST!

[@dcasandman]

Almost got this, but ended up with a Triumph Speed Twin instead. Still love it.

[@ChavsADV]

Dont go sport touring with a passenger. 😂. We do it on our z900rs and its a great bike but the passenher really get the shaft in these bikes. 1 hour of riding is no problem but hanging onto fast bike with higher foot pegs and jerky thottles will surely make them hate riding after a few hubdred miles.

[@ZenAndTheArtOfMotoAdventure]

Your videos are captivating; your journeys are incredible! 🌄 How do you cope with fatigue during your adventures and ensure you're always in top shape? A video on this would be fantastic!

[@rodjbosch]

The motor.....is just fantastic Had the FZ09 for a few years,early model so the suspension wasnt the best. But the motor.....never filed to put a grin on.

[@walterjohnson2031]

I have been riding for 60 years and owned about all the big inline 4s plus Honda’s CBR in-line 6 cylinder. The MT 09 is like the best things of all these bikes put in one bike. Plenty of power and torque spread out through the entire RPM range. Nimble and extremely light for bikes in this power range. The major updates that started with the 2021 models corrected or vastly improved all the aspects of handling and throttle response of the earlier models. The CP3 Engine absolutely stands in a class of its own, especially torque everywhere. Unique engine sound and good riding position. Individual looks that standout in the crowd. Some like these looks others don’t but if you ride it long enough to know this bike you won’t care either way. History reflects some bikes become bench marks in their time and truly think the MT 09 will be such a motorcycle. That is one big statement when one thinks about the numbers of great motorcycles we are blessed with at this time.

[@blueskystailwind544]

Same story as yours, last bike was zx14r ohlin's and brembo..man the sheer power of that beast will stay etched in my memory forever .. the mt09 is such a fun bike in so many aspects and so light..hats off to Yamaha for building this awesome value for money triple.

[@danielklopp7007]

Excellent choice (although I have my eye on the Tracer GT variant, as I do a lot of cross-country trips)!

[@1136tscc]

You made the right choice

[@alharris1508]

Can not go wrong with Yamaha 👍🏼

[@BigRockMoto]

For sure!

[@alozborne]

I've only ridden a couple of Yamahas, both times I found the gearbox shifting to be clunkier than the Suzuki and Honda bikes I have owned or rented. Not a total deal breaker, but that clunkiness detracts from the enjoyment of a bike AFAIK.

[@nicholasbaker2904]

I think you made a fine choice. I have a used ktm 690smr and im eyeing up the mt07/mt09 as well.

[@G91YS]

I have the impression you buy a bike every month xD. And here I am with my 4,5 y/o Honda VFR800X Crossrunner (not sold in USA), looking to sidegrade to a Suzuki GSXS1000GT (awesome review of it btw, watched it several times!).

[@fightingpitdragon]

Great purchase, the MT09 are not common where I live. It was one of the bikes I considered getting but went with gsxs-gt+. Would like to hear more on the yamaha.

[@RestlessMule]

I think you made a great choice in this class as I think this is more in line with what most people would consider. As a rider of a naked bike, I can say yes, you can definitely do sport touring on a naked bike. With that said, I’m really looking forward to what you have to say about this. Your content is always informative, thorough, and entertaining.

[@kawabungah20]

Excited to see your MT-09 evals, especially how it compares to the Triumphs. I've always wanted a Yami because of the consistent, dependable quality of the mark. However, I've always wanted a Triumph as well!! Hmm....

[@Mr450pro]

I just bought a new 2023mt09 sp. at the dealership I tried the regular mt09 and I was hooked right away. Bought the sp and I’m just waiting for the weather to get better, so I can actually try it 😂

[@freebehindbars8654]

Excellent bike! Imagine if HD built a naked around the Rev Max motor. The Sportster S significantly outweighs the Mt, yet drags it in a race. I went the 890R route, but you can’t go wrong with either.

[@dougiequick1]

My thoughts exactly ....but that would offend HD's "base" which I am SO SO sick of hearing! Just damn build a real sportbike Harley! DAMN you have the motor now DO IT!

[@JohnJay1745]

I have no quarrel with your choice or your reasoning. I would choose the 2024 Tracer 9 GT because I already have a naked motorcycle (BMW S1000R) and I'm looking for a reasonably priced long-distance motorcycle. The GT, like the MT-09 SP, appears to have the right stuff at a great price. Enjoy!!!

[@brentmiller5830]

Great video! I would appreciate your opinion on why the MT-09 instead of the 2023 Tracer 9GT +? Love to hear your insight! Tracer seems perfect for around town commute, long day trip, and a perfect single up 3-5 days sport touring trip! I have a Husky 501s, T7 and a Norden 901. I had a Tracer 900 GT and loved it! Great brand! Always had my eye on the MT-09. Just got back from the Oregon (Astoria) and California coast down past the Lost Coast Highway on the Norden. I often thought the Tracer might have been a better bike for the trip! Thanks again for your excellent content! I loved your recent Colorado vids!

[@dahveed284]

I purchased a 2021 MT-09 SP. I love the bike. I had a XSR900 before and loved that engine, but found the suspension lacking. The SP variant is the way to go.

[@filmcamera]

I would have gone for the Street Triple 765 RS myself. The 2024 is supposed to have more power, a better chassis and be sharper all round. I had a 2018 Street Triple before eventually switching to a Tiger 900 Rally Pro and I itch to get another Street, I miss that power!

[@adamsikes4474]

I did the same move. 2018 STR to a 2021 T900R. Still miss the STR

[@anxiousappliance]

Have you ridden the Yamaha?

[@adamsikes4474]

@@anxiousappliance I had a 2014 FZ09 that i put 15k miles on before my STR. Haven't ridden the newer generation

[@darrenwarrick8865]

Have a 2022 mt 09 and 2009 R1200 gs.....perfect combo.....love them...

[@Chikku891]

And Thanks for showing us how MT 09 SP is good & value for money bike...

[@emperorkhan9941]

Totally made the right choice. One can never go wrong with Japanese bikes. There is no other country that gives so much for the money. Affordable, reliable, low maintenance. A total package, all in one.

[@bacbladerunner]

Super happy for you! Cool bike. But why did Yami use a corn silo for the front brake reservoir? That thing is ugly and belongs on bike from 1970. It should have had a rectangular all-metal one near the lever.

[@Sousless]

Why not Tracer 9? Especially for sport touring would be a lot better with more wind protection. Or you were set on getting a naked bike? Looking forward to the review!

[@Motovibes91]

The MT-09 is 23kg or 50 lbs lighter

[@Sousless]

@@Motovibes91 Obviously. The fairing and bigger tank are not weightless.

[@thouseinthehouse]

Was waiting for this!

[@EvendimataE]

the tank shape is ok but not beautiful

[@Turco949]

And if you are having way too much fun, your clothes will rip right out anyhow! I really liked these bikes but the wheelbase and overall ergonomics were not good for me.

[@JosephStanek-jj3uo]

Cracks me up that a 900cc is considered a middle weight.

[@mcraeheard8213]

Everyone who rides the new MT09 seems to love it. I just bought a 2023 Triumph St. triple RS, and couldn’t be happier. The middleweight, naked sector is truly a Goldilocks.

[@arnohag1]

Thank goodness Yamaha has fixed the suspension issue. I had the XSR900SP, all black edition. The head shakes and twitchiness and instability in corners turned me off riding it. Throttle control was a bit hit and miss. Sold it for a Z900 which is not as exciting but more predictable.

[@rickslijkhuis6822]

I'm interrested in your full review! Especially your thoughts on the front suspension. People still complain about the feel and predictability. Do you experience this? Is it solvable by adjusting your settings? Of not, have you tried to change the fork height?

[@SmokinZen]

I miss my MT10 I had a smile on my face every single time I got off of it. I traded it for a T7 and I wish I never did it’s fun but I don’t feel that connection I had with my MT10. I did long touring canyon carving track days the MT09 is nice not sure it can tour comfortably but for some reason people don’t hold on to these too long. I would only get the SP for sure.

[@RoeyHaviv]

Great bike! If you want some bite from the brakes, try EBC HH sintered pads, should make for a good video.

[@jasongaudreau2075]

I really want an sp version of a Yamaha mt. Either 9 or 10. Considering the 10 comes with a$6k price hike (and a 60hp hike! Not to mention computer controlled suspension adjustment vs manual adjustment suspension), said and done the mt-09 ain’t no “middleweight”. Just because the mt-07 is low hp, it still isn’t a “beginner bike” vs say an mt-03. And now the r7 has been made, we’ve already got an r1 so for 2024, Yamaha may be releasing an r9! The patent has been secured by Yamaha, and they’ve sat on said patent for 2 years already…patent is only good for 3yrs so it’ll be soon hopefully. But if a beginner is 300cc’s and the top of the line is 1000cc’s how can 900cc’s be “the middle”? 700cc’s (mt-07) IS the middleweight. This mt-09 is actually more of a upper mid, or lower high-end bike. Which btw, hits every single sweet spot for me especially the “sp” version. A DNA intake, akra or yoshi full exhaust, and Chris Moore, Moore Mafia tune, and you got yourself a ripper! If you go down the rabbit hole with the dyno, grab up a set of Brock’s carbon fiber wheels with ceramic bearings and voilà….super bike shamer at every red light thumbs up you can find!!! All while on the back wheel only lol.

[@kowal1937]

I'd love to hear your opinion on the Kawasaki z900. Plenty of torque in the middle as well.

[@churchofbrap876]

Great engine. I have the Z900RS and the engine is sneaky good all around. Especially with a Brocks pipe and flash.

[@timhaslum7461]

Great choice, i owned the previous generation XSR900 and amazed how powerful the motor actually feels, and now its been made larger with more torque lower in the revs. You’ve made the right choice. Love the countryside where you live, looks superb for riding. Great content as usual 👍🏻.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks for sharing

[@Michelr81]

Hey mate ,what kind of windscreen are you using? Any buffering issues?

[@ehiggins7476]

Great choice, the 890 R would have been awesome too.

[@PeakRidersMC]

I'm wondering how the lack of wind protection is holding up for those two and three hour rides?

[@paulie550]

Great review and awesome bike! 👍 I own a 2022 MT09 (non-sp) and I’m absolutely loving it. (When I purchased my bike, there were no SP versions to be found). If I could add one thing, it would be cruise control - I wish there were an option for adding Yamaha factory cruise control after purchase. Also, the seat slope towards the tank could be a tad less steep, in my opinion. thanks again for this review and all of your other excellent reviews. 😃

[@dirkhuman760]

You count 9, 10, 7 or is it 9, 7, 10? I'd have counted 7, 9, 10 or 10, 9, 7. Nice bike. It would have been nice seeing all 3 of the latest MT line up ridden by you. I hope the bike brings you lots of joy.

[@justmyself1000]

About a year ago I was faced with the same decision between the 890 Duke R this mt-09 SP the street triple and the Aprilia Tuono 660. I ended up going with a 890 Duke R because I do like parallel Twins and I already have a KTM 1190 Adventure R. I think with any of these naked middleweights you can't go wrong but one thing that did attract me to the Duke was the turning radius. It was the best between all the bikes. But I feel I would have been happy with any of the choices.

[@goldfish8196]

as you pointed out the only thing questionable is the style of the bike. I don't like it but would still go with it just because it's a Yamaha.

[@alfonsonavarromarzal4744]

Excellent choice for you as the Rider, but let us know what your wife ( or the pillion for that matter) thinks after one hour ride .....

[@JoeStanek-vu7rl]

Compared to our Aprilia RSVR she absolutely loves it.

[@fentontaylor9021]

I ride a 2023 BMW R1250RT every week in the Malibu mountains and love the bike. Its a little heavy, so Ive been thinking about getting a Ducati Multi Strada Pikes Peak, but Ive also got my eye on an SP. What a bang for the buck!! Love that engine, love the quick shifter, but haven't ridden one yet. I have ridden a 2018 MT-09 which was OK, but the SP is reportedly much better in the corners. Looking forward to your full review.

[@alfixall]

Hi. I ride in the Malibu/Santa Monica mountains too. I wanted a GS but yeah, too heavy for me plus too small garage with 2 cars. I ride with the SoCal Weekday Riders club. Tuesdays. I go alone too. Maybe we meetup some day.

[@rafikshahnazarian7632]

Great bike as well as a Great review,

[@twowheelsabove]

every bike should be decated these days, otherways you'll get shitty throttle response and bad low rpm performance, that's why mt10 or 1290 SAS would be better due to raw power, which overcomes that greenery madness

[@Sporttourer]

You know, you can flash an ECU which is what actually solves the problem without having to change the exhaust.

[@twowheelsabove]

@@Sporttourer do you know why it's lean in first place? because of catalytic converter ! which is became garbage in no time after you enrich AFR

[@michaelskinner896]

Nice choice Ian! I totally agree with all of the reasons you used to justify buying this bke and I'm looking forward to your other reviews on this one. BTW, your laugh at the beginning was epic!

[@Ringer1982]

It's a great bike if you like its ergonomics. The previous version of MT09 SP was not that comfortable for me. I swapped bikes with my buddy for half an hour, I was on mine Z900RS Cafe and he was on his MT09 SP, and the sitting posture felt weird on MT09. It was almost upright but with pegs quite high. The sitting position on Z900RS Cafe felt more natural with less bent in knees and a bit more lean towards the wind.

[@dougiequick1]

A guy I see and ride with a lot in the twisties has the Z900RS and the first thing he did to it was to change to adjustable rearsets which arguably with the MT09 one can get away without doing that using the high position. Sometimes you just have to give up a little comfort in the name of fast paced twisties which both the MT09 and Z900 seem very well suited at. As much as I am a fan of the MT09 I am really looking forward to the R9! Which should be based on the identical platform but even more sport ergos ....I want one so I hope it is not over the top track only ergos or at least has room for adjustment to something somewhat ssurvivable for an hour or two in the saddle! Hopefully they dont make the same mistake Triumph did with their 1200 Speed Triple Cafe where left ZERO adjustment room for handlebar mod (no slack in control lines and no extra crealarance on the fairing anyway) Just a ridiculous wrist kiler is what multi reviews seem to say

[@Ringer1982]

@dougiequick1 That guy who's MT I tried sold his MT and got BMW S1000R instead. Maybe try it as well also.

[@michaelhayward7572]

Better looking than anything KTM make. Me personally? Woulda got the XSR900.

[@MisterSuki]

It would be an XSR 900 for me for my preferred aesthetics but the comfort and ergonomics you mention are important as well. Have you been on the latest generation XSR for comparison in those aspects?

[@PavelDvorak-d7m]

This is my first ever YT comment. I've been watching your videos for a while and I can't help but wonder, why this bike, or why you list the KTM Duke, Triumph triple, etc. as other options, when you were so blown away by the Kawasaki Z900RS. You literally said, that Kawa is the one, you would buy. So why didn't you do it? If you answer, please don't be brief. Thank you.

[@BigRockMoto]

I like the Z900RS. It was probably my runner up. It didn't have quite the thrilling ride of this MT09, nor does it offer cruise control. However, I prefer the looks of the Z900RS, as well as the Street Triples.

[@PavelDvorak-d7m]

Thanks for the reply, it must be hard to answer so many stupid questions. I wanted to know your opinion, as I really like the Kawa and was also excited of test drive. It is still my number one on wish list. I've seen a number of reviews of it and everyone rates it as almost perfect, but no one buys it. Even the dealer told me, that it doesn't sell well. Whoever buys it, sells it in a year or two. I wonder what is the issue. It seems, that everyone is buying MT 09, probably good, but really ugly bike.

[@Brabobiker.]

Lovely bike, 100% my next! I now own a MT-07 2022 though. Did you check the bmw f900r?

[@motowipeout5670]

You have chosen wisely!

[@thetwowheeledintrovert3367]

The SP models from Yamaha are amazing bang for buck. Brilliant suspension etc, and not a great deal more than the standard editions. Picked up a second hand R1M, for maybe ten percent more than an equivalent R1.

[@johndemmink3539]

I’d spend a little more and get the MT 10, the sound alone is worth the extra $.

[@keyboarddancers7751]

Looking forward to the forthcoming T9.

[@rcf_sensei]

having the hardest decision right now if anyone can help chime in that would be appreciated I've owned a countless amount of different bikes in my almost 6 years of riding due to me buying and selling! gsxr 1k , Honda cbr1100 , cbr600rr ,Honda shadow 750 honda vtx 1300 and vtx1800 and i currently own a suzuki drz400s and a gen 2 Hayabusa which since i could remember was my dream bike ive had the busa for almost 2 years now and i would always tell myself i would never sell it but after buying the drz ive found myself enjoying that so much more and everytime i get on the busa now just feels like a one trick pony (going fast in a straight lane) so ive been contemplating in trading it for a mt09 but scared that i would feel like a i made a mistake i do mostly city riding i ride highways maybe 20% of the time and i like going fast but not really concerned on doing 180 mph+ or going to the drag strip another thing to note when i hop on the bike i like riding for 5+ hours and the busa after about a hour isnt very comfortable trust me i know ive done about 4 200 mile plus rides and mannn i feel like i need a chiropractor after so do you reccomend going mt09 or mt10 for me??? extra info about me 6'1 230 pounds

[@GameWinner85]

Well I had many of them, Kawasaki z900 2020 plate, Duke 1290 2021, Honda cb1000 2021, Tiger 900 GT PRO, and finished with Honda Forza 350cc, so how is cruel it is :DX So now my dream back maybe on Tmax 560 or even MT10, or maybe MT09. Scooter idea was for practicality reasons, you got storage for you helmet and other stuff.

[@ryanrogers8211]

I'm not sure if you're familiar with the KZbinr named "Gixxer Brah" but when he was asked if he could only get one bike what would it be his reply was the MT-09!

[@kimw200blaze4]

I think you should have considered the Kawasaki Z900. It has an bigger range for touring, as it's fuel tank is bigger than MT -09 SP. The Z900 should get an range of 185 miles. By contrast the MT-09 SP should go for about 151 miles. If you go touring on the Yamaha, you are going to need to stop more frequently, to get petrol in comparison to the Kawasaki.

[@madmaxximus1234]

Good choice! The only silly thing on this bike for me is the fuel gage 😮.

[@braaaaaaaaaaap]

Use the fuel consumption meter not the fuel gauge.

[@paul_london]

Love your bike!! Out of curiosity, why not going with mt10?

[@BigRockMoto]

Overkill for how I ride

[@hyedefinition1080]

Great bike overall. For some reason Yamaha can't seem to get brakes right. I like retro styling and curious if Yamaha will offer an SP version for the XSR900

[@alfixall]

I had the same problem with my Kawa Versys 650. I put braided brake lines and it great now. But touchy without ABS...

[@stevetheaxe]

My wife and I got an mt07 each a year ago to celebrate 20th wedding anniversary. We've done over 20 000kms (is that 12 000 miles) together riding around the east side of Australia. Thought about getting an mt09 but more than happy with the 07. Especially in the fuel range department. Get a lot more miles to a tank and im extremely satisfied with the power. Were not any kind of hotshot riders though. We just love riding and travelling together

[@Chikku891]

Wow mt 09 SP is awesome bike compare 900 cc other bikes... I love it so much... I'm from India... Yamaha lunch mt 09... I love this bike so much... That i didn't look for other bikes... Im waiting to lunch this bike in India...

[@gmoneymac23]

What about the MT-10 SP? Too much $$ vs the MT-09 SP? The MT-09's ergos for long rides seem worse than the MT-10. I assume the XSR900 wasn't picked because it lacks cruise control(I think)?

[@sessionken]

Was trying to get MT-09 SP but grew impatient and got the MT-10. But the Mt-09 SP is great for the price and my needs if I can do it all over again. Power, suspension, and cruise control were my main focus points. Congrats on the new bike!

[@BigRockMoto]

Good choice!

[@Schlabbeflicker]

The CP3 engine in a naked trim like the MT-09 is perfect for those throttle pulls at street speeds. Putting the CP3 in a touring trim like the Tracer 9 GT+ would make it far better for long distance travelling; I guess you lose just a little bit of flickability with the added weight.

[@oust556]

Monster still doesn't have cruise control. If it did, I'd own one right now. Ended up going with KTM. (two warranty repairs with less than 1000 miles on bike)

[@chrissunde1104]

Great choice, however the monster and street triple have it beat on brakes and aesthetics.

[@sund5]

Did you test drive the newer turono 1100? Plus 2017? It has all the Bells and whistles also. And plenty of punch. You talk about street triple. Dont know why you dont also talk a bit about the speed triple :-)

[@carvalhonj]

Second youtuber from California take the same Bike at the same time. Maybe Yamaha is behind this😂 anyway MT09 is great bike and this channel are awesome👏🏼👏🏼

[@gdvadventours5512]

The only thing i didnt like about the bike is that front brake fluid reservoir,it sticks out ugly

[@aluisious]

No one needs you to go over the specs of the bike. Every video does, and they're on the Yamaha website. Just give subjective opinions, that's the only thing that you could offer of value, along with riding footage.