Is the 2019 Yamaha Tracer 900 a Tame Hooligan Bike?

[@sethbrown1763]

Dude, I gotta say, that was the BEST review I've ever seen of any bike. Not even the old school Brit reviewers do such a good job of explaining the ins and outs of a bike. No seriously, really in depth. Good job!

[@ronmimnaugh7674]

@Rick B I second this. Some of them do really good reviews and test a lot of different bikes.

[@240fxst]

Alex your very mature and knowledgeable for a 22 year old. Maybe i'm just old, yes I am. Thank you for educating me on the bike constructively with pros and cons. Keep doing your thing. Thanks.

[@kitcarr4668]

Being past 60 years I'm 'more of a grandad than even a dad' myself Alex and considering the Tracer 900 myself - rare blend of light weight, flick-ability and extreme comfort. Budget means she'll be a used bike, but I suspect that if I undertake a seat cushion rebuild to include a gel layer then this will be a bike that I'll keep for many years ! And, sincere congrats on the mature reporting - I was blown away when you said you're just 22 ... as Pwince below and others have commented, I agree and wish you every success for the future - I rarely subscribe , bell and - like but for this quality it's done! Keep up the good work and wishing you every success Alex!

[@MrPepper312]

Best review of the Tracer I've seen anywhere. Great audio of the engine sound with no wind noise. And especially thanks for no music.

[@Desertfox92308]

I had one of the early triples from Yamaha, a XS7502D! Great bike with air/oil cooling in 1978! Yes I'm old! Lol

[@gregormiller4037]

My first bike, well after my Honda 50, was a Yamaha 125 Enduro, yellow tank, early 70's...I feel ya.

[@browndoggus]

Sethbrown1763 said it. This is the best review I've seen on KZbin and I've watched a lot of reviews on bikes. It is concise, no drama and clear information. I didn't care much of the view looking at your back (minor critique) but everything else was so darn good. I've been looking to go for something lighter (currently on a BMW RT) and seriously considering the MT-09 but after seeing this video, it makes me rethink the Tracer. Just made my life tougher and thank you for doing so!

[@ismet_sxv]

Please more bike videos! 🙏 Awesome vid

[@timlawler479]

Great review. Sold my 2006 Vstrom 1000 “Old Reliable”.. Pick my Tracer up next Tuesday, I’m dying... test drove it last week, what a leap in technology, plus that triple is fantastic, really moves. You’re basically getting a light “Toured Up” MT-09, same DNA. Great ergos for me, I’m 6”4. Killer clearance deals out there right now for this 2019 as the 2020’s are coming in.

[@bikenbush]

Hey Tim! Nice reflections... I’ve been on a Z400 since last year thinking of vstrom 650 X but the tracer looks good too! Just weary of the tracers power/ potential etc. do you think you’d go to the tracer without spending time on the strom?

[@fasteddie1]

I’m a dad on a Tracer900 :) Totally agree on all the negative points minus the color dash. Could it be better? Sure. Deal breaker? Nah. The seat sucks after an hour of riding. What’s bad, and I mean really bad, is the slipper clutch. It introduces an annoying and sluggish engagement. If anyone wanted to trade my entire clutch basket for a “normal” setup, lmk! Awesome review young man!!

[@stephenhunt6253]

On the previous model, a couple issues seemed to be reported: (1) Cam chain tensioner problems (2) High speed wobble, possibly due to fairings/windscreen/handguards Any update on these issues on the new model?

[@Pomoz7]

Great review and having owned one for six months, I agree with what you said but have a few extra points. The bike ‘s biggest weakness is its lack of ground clearance. You can scrape the bottom of the bike going over a speed hump. It makes it most unsuitable for off-road. Gravel roads is the best you can hope for and avoid pot holes. Regarding the comments that the suspension is soft, I found if you adjust it, it seems perfectly adequate for 110kg rider and a pillion (85kg). I have ridden it on the terrible roads in Thailand and the suspension was more than adequate. That said, if you put Ohlins on it, it would make it handle even better. The handling is very light and agile. I just rode a 1200GS for 2,400kms and that felt like a tank after riding the Tracer GT. It turns in easily and is easy to flick through corners and switchbacks. The brakes are perplexing. I was going to upgrade them and I think braided lines would help. What I have found is that they are very progressive. There is no immediate bite but if you squeeze hard they stop the bike very impressively. They give you a lot of feel which is really useful for trail braking. I understand why people prefer the feeling of hitting a wall, like you get with the Panigale V4, but this bike can stop really well. You just have to use a bit of force. You don’t need to be a weight trainer to use them, just don’t be timid and they will surprise you with how well they can work. The tyres really squirm in the rain and I will be ditching them as soon as they need replacing, if not sooner. Whoever designed the screen should be made to sit behind while the bike is doing 180kmph for three hours as punishment. It really shouldn’t be that hard to design a screen that actually screens, but somehow all the manufacturers struggle with this. The GS1200 was no better. I am looking for an aftermarket replacement before my next long ride. I already have the Puig sport screen shown in the video and it’s perfect for low speed aropund town. In summary, I love this bike and plan to keep it for a few years. However, if they make one with an MT10 engine I will be on it!

[@julyman9]

Awesome review man! One thing you forgot to mention is the GT also has heated grips as standard. Cheers

[@declary]

Great review, really good job in hitting all the high points. Well done and thanks!

[@tomwolfel6502]

Just got the GT model. Sold my XSR-900 and needed more creature comforts. The cruise is heaven. Haven't tried the heated grips as it is summer here and the center stand is a very handy item. Getting ready for a 1500 mile ride and see how my body holds up. Great honest review. Thanks, Tom

[@Re-Booter]

I love that engine on the Yamaha, the crossplane exhaust note is simply awesome. I ride a 2013 Multistrada 1200S-GT, but would love to own a Tracer.

[@dardobartoli]

I bought the 900GT in Nov 19 and this video was instrumental in making that decision. It lives up to all the accolades of being one of the best and most affordable 'all round' bikes on the market. My only gripe is that some of the fit and finish of the components is poor. Thanks for this video.

[@laxnertv293]

Great review, very spot on. The big changes however came into the '18 model. I own a 2018 Tracer 900 myself and fell in love the moment I got to test it from the shop. The LED turn signals Yamaha provides as an option are great and look good. Putting in an Akrapovic is also worth every penny.

[@adamschoedel8829]

I've been riding a tracer since 2015. I'll make it easy for you. Just ride it in B Mode everywhere. It has no loss of power. It just doesn't have a twitchy throttle.

[@robertpolkamp]

Alex, excellent review. I rode this bike(FJ) from Florida to Alaska and back, 12200 miles right off the showroom floor zero issues. Your right, the tires are awful and the Michelin Road 5 are outstanding. Replace the stock chain with a top of the line DID (+2 rear sprocket) since the factory one will not make it 10k. Of all the farkles I added only the front and rear fender extenders were truly useful, of course factory heated grips is always money well spend. Let us know when your ready to take the Fazer for a real ride..

[@steboardman4390]

Very tempting bike. I owned it's old man for some years...the TDM 850. Had a fair few Yamahas and loved every one of them.

[@SsiolisP]

Given that the bikes I'm interested in do not have either a TFT screen, either a fully adjustable suspension, either cruise control, or either a quick shifter, I think I could easily settle for the non GT version, save a couple of grand, and be happy... extremely happy! And given that I don't like the looks, and double screen of the 2021 model, I wouldn't mind a used Tracer 900 (2018-19) and save even more. Great presentation.

[@johnman7251]

Alex: excellent review. I watched another’s ride review on this same bike (a “pro” working for a video and print publication) and I ended up knowing more about the bike than he did. I learned new things about the bike from you!

[@georgenewman5860]

Good review, thanks. I disagree about the display, I really like the LCD (I have a 2015 FJ-09). It is configurable to put what you need on screen and easy to flip through. The TFT is prettier but I don't think it is an upgrade in terms of communicating information to the rider. I haven't used it though so I could be wrong. The longer swingarm, the new seat, and the styling updates are very nice improvements. I totally agree on the fun factor of this bike, I always look forward to jumping aboard this rocketship.

[@0toeknee0]

Nice job. You should do a comparison with the triumph tiger 800.

[@Banditmanuk]

I've ridden the Tracer GT, was really impressed with it. In the end I've gone with an XSR900 which I've had an LC900 conversation on. That Triple engine is awesome. You know being a Yamaha it's going to be super reliable.

[@FanOWater]

I have a 2015 FJ-09. Steel braided lines really help with the brakes. The motor is awesome. Try the Metzeler Roadtec 01 tires - flawless in all conditions. Enjoy!

[@Fredricksen390]

Awesome review my friend. I have the tracer too I’m 6 ft and it fits me perfectly. I like your wind screen.

[@byronwhite3620]

Great video man! You really sold that MT09 Tracer 😅🤙🏾

[@raybell7696]

The only problem I have is the seat,after 60 miles by backside was aching but an airhawk cushion is fantastic

[@yassim0008]

My XSR900 cousin!😍. Love our triple!

[@PartialS]

What an entertaining, informative, and detailed review. Thanks very much.

[@blurglide]

I loved this bike the moment I saw it, and still love it a year after buying my 2015 (upgraded with new slipper clutch). With side and top cases and a big windshield, along with the big rear seat, it's even practical. Put in some Rotella T6 and it shifts WAY smoother.

[@nicholstop8161]

I’m 18 and my first bike was an r6 cuz I thought those were cooler and I ended up riding my dads so much he bought a brand new one and gave me his. So much better than a super sport and made me love riding way more. Mines a 15 and it doesn’t have the slipper clutch and it’s super nice to ride but I’ve ridden my dads 2020 and the slipper clutch is definitely noticeable and there’s almost no vibration on it or anything.

[@racerdaveracerdave]

Great review! I am interested in the non-GT version, so I appreciate you doing this one

[@irvan36mm]

5:32 That’s why you have to pay attention all the time,especially at stop signs/lights.

[@ZORANSKORIN]

You are very talented young man,good for you.

[@scottygdaman]

i recall enjoying every Yamaha i've owned 350rd 650 twin old school special the black and gold one, ys,, 500 dirt bike was insane. i need one of these.

[@stevenfarmwald6979]

Excellent review! Thinking of upgrading from the MT07. Thanks

[@waynehicks317]

So yall might want a TFL Street now or something. That bike should never hit the dirt lol

[@gregormiller4037]

Agree...if just to see if these boys can ride and slide :)

[@John_Ridley]

The stock windscreen does great with a small $20 deflector on top. I just did 1200 miles on mine and I was in a decent bubble.

[@davideccles1617]

Brilliant review well done young man.

[@geraldcesena0158]

Really like your video very informative. Was looking at 1000 xr bmw this will be perfect for commuting. Thank you for your time.

[@donnyazoff980]

Great review mate!

[@thomasshermanjr3351]

If you have ever spent some time on a FJR1300 a lot of this will be familiar. I don’t know if the adjustable seat bracket, bags, or screen is the exact same parts, but it’s definitely the same concept.

[@paulkiley4667]

This is an excellent review of the Tracer 900. I agree with everything you have said, this is a really good bike, perhaps unbeatable in this day and age where you can't buy a bad bike. 100% agree on the screen it's shocking, Yamaha should be ashamed fitting it and I have bought a Puig sport screen that's yet to be tested. We're still in winter here in the UK but it honestly can't be worse than the standard. I have the 2019 model in tech black and I love it. The riding position, comfort, handling, but the engine power has to be the best bit. Snatchy yes but with care it can be tamed. Overall an excellent bike that I love riding.

[@kuhndj67]

Great review... I have a buddy looking at the Tracer. It looks a lot like my Multistrada, sort of a MS lite... less insane but a lot of the love at half the price. And I love triples...

[@Robert8455]

Excellent review Alex.

[@timpope1221]

Great video, could you provide a video on accessorizes especially touring bags for the Tracer or are they even available for it ...that bike looks awesome and I cant wait to test ride one, I have had many bikes over the years, Harley's, Honda's, and Yamaha's and I have been looking at Sport touring and adventure bikes and I believe after watching your video I have found what I'm looking for, thanks again !

[@timpope1221]

@Rod Rebman Thanks !

[@RogerBOgre]

I bought this bike Tim and love it ,still have it on mode B lol. There are so many options when it comes to mods for the bike,"think of candy store"

[@ScottyBennitone]

0ver 100hp for a bike that weighs 450lbs is insane .

[@Davidlouis3]

Good review young man 👍

[@garypermanent9724]

Awesome job! Im trying to put a deal together for the same bike as we speak. During a pandemic you would think theyd be more humble lol. Keep up the great work.

[@boatnz5374]

Great review, detailed and informative. I just subscribed

[@moscty]

"Dad's bike"...my 18 year old son wants a BMW R1200GS (old guy bike) after riding one last year.

[@BugManRides]

moscty - smart kid

[@PBaraik]

Tell him to get a job.

[@Chr-Re-ie]

what's wrong with the tires??? I drive a s1000xr previous tires were the michelins pilot road 5 now the sportier dunlops sportsmart MK3, i love them both...

[@christiannygaard9507]

Great review👍 I own the exact same bike, and agree with you on all points. Even bought the same screen two months ago 😊 Swap the exhaust with with some thing a bit more open and she will scream!

[@paulbercot6941]

What windscreen?

[@BentonHart]

I love my '17 XSR900, tons of fun to ride if you can deal with the lack of a windscreen. I'm even local to Boulder if a comparison was wanted to be done.

[@juanitotiberius9629]

Your review is perfect, I guess a comparison between tenere and tracer would be great to hear from you too!

[@dratilhelvetedotlol]

You just earned yourself a subscriber! I envy you that 60mm longer swingarm, I can seriously not get my hand in between the rear tire and the muffler on my 2016, makes cleaning in that area almost impossible.

[@ismet_sxv]

But why in tfl off road? And not tfl now or so?

[@rubberskilla2991]

Would love to see some more bike reviews! KTM Superduke next😉👍

[@elitetileandstone]

Yamaha hit a home run, when they developed this engine. Both the FZ09 and FJ09 were built to a price point, far below some of the competition. The downside of that is the basic suspension and parts bin turn signals and dash( Super Tenere). Personally I would love to see a lighter weight adventure bike with this engine. Perhaps something like a Tenere 09. I think it would give the Triumph Explorers a run for their money.

[@Pmason718]

Is this a 2018 or 2019? I thought the 2019 came with the color TFT or what that only for the GT?

[@coccicar]

Hi, nice review. Can you tell witch is the after market windscreen model you are using? thanks

[@protectork9831]

I have 2017 fz09 it is insane

[@200Fathoms]

Great review. Well done.

[@corwing9739]

I have one, model'2016 and can confirm, great bike, dynamic aggresive engine. I added warmed grips, quick shifter and higher windshield and it's really nice for both long and short trips. Great review dude! Cheers from Poland

[@julianomartins5949]

Great review! I've got a Tracer 900 and love it! The only down side is the seat which might have been improved on the 2019 version.

[@lietuvis96]

Really nice content. Very appreciated.

[@foolishcoyote.]

are your legs comfortable after an hour or 2 with that feet tucked back position?

[@pier-olivierperreault231]

Nice review thank you !

[@garypermanent9724]

Fabulous, informative review! My question though- Im your height 170 lbs,but way older (60). In the showroom this bike felt extremely tall and heavy. It was stacked 4" from other bikes lined up in a row.This is my third bike but previous were no more than 350cc. Do you think its too much for me?

[@polishnova]

Enjoyed the review. Wondering if you tried the versys 1000? Love to know your thoughts on how that one compares.

[@pmp0giboy]

Great review

[@wesleysherwin1117]

I just want to say that this is a very well done review.

[@RobertMacCready]

Good review. I have an FJ-09 and it runs great. New tires bring the bike to life. Sorry to see they are not using the TFT on that bike. But the GT would be my choice. But I also like the BMW 750/850/1250 Have ridden each of those bikes and they are terrific too. If I had to choose this bike or the 750 I'd buy the 750.

[@amdomag]

Any vibration issue that may affect riding stamina? Please keep on posting very informative videos. Thank you.

[@billhamilton7524]

Really nice review ,,,I own an fz07 and test drove this the other day and YES the windshield is awful as far as wind buffeting,,where did you find that lower windshield please Thanks

[@franciscarreon6908]

You are an excellent KZbin presenter. Please review more vehicles.

[@bog1dan]

Great video !

[@brno221973]

Only thing I would add to the hate list is that I find the side stand awkward to get down, the key is fiddly with gloves on & is a bit buzzy through the peg at higher revs. I am being super picky because I love my GT & have owned it for almost a year now with no intention of getting rid of it. Great review 👍👍👍

[@rocketj7449]

Buzzy? Should have opted for the v twin torque monster on the 1000 vstrom. I can attest, no buzz!

[@brno221973]

Anything above 7500rpm & they really vibrate through the pegs. Maybe you don’t ride as hard as me.

[@rocketj7449]

@@brno221973 the vstrom redline is 9000 rpm, but produces most of its torque at 3000 ish rpms. So, with normal riding you rarely climb over 4000 rpms. Cruises on the freeway at 4500. No vibes whatsoever!

[@Mr_Daso]

what wind screen is that? I agree with everything but the suspension bit. I think it's too soft. Everything else on the tracer is amazing though.

[@jeffjones6172]

Puig racing screen I put the same one on my tracer gt

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

Good review but 2 points if you don't like the Dash you should of got the GT ( for all you get with it I would pay the difference ) Also tyres can be changed when worn out. But still a great bike I owned 3 Triumph Tipples and a Benelli Triple was looking at GT Tracer as next Road bike ( but so MANY choices )

[@scottygdaman]

plan on doing some kind of exhaust? krabovich broken in is great

[@c22tch]

How does the FJ09 / Tracer 900 respond to an ECU flash ? Does that smooth out the throttle response ?

[@insanetharapy6948]

Bruh next time get your cam person to show the position, we wanted to see the body position 8:30

[@jamieshields9521]

Great vid on Yamaha👍

[@josephcongello9483]

Put a Quick shifter on it. You will love it. I did. I have the same bike.

[@DavidP0922]

Can I get a link to that after market wind screen , I would love you put it on my 2017 fj 09

[@FENBASS100]

Great review, I love mine

[@FTZONERACING]

Upgrade the suspension, have it setup and totally feels like a bike that's worth twice the price.

[@hdidane00]

This is informative thank you.

[@guitarmotoph]

Hi. Great review. Hows the vibration on the handlebar on highway speeds? Close to inline 4 or parallel twin? Thanks.

[@quebecpatriot3525]

I never understand the motor mode and dont like the tft screen that all new bike have by now. I got ktm adventure 1190 and I never change the motor mode always on sport and when I do offroad I just turn off MTC and ABS. If your not able to ride it in rain at full power there a probleme for sure

[@mrvwbug4423]

So on the subject of the passenger pegs, did you do anything to keep the passenger pegs from catching your boot heel? When I test rode the Tracer I found that my boot heel kept hitting the passenger peg.

[@josh8494]

I have the Tracer 900 GT which shares the common complaint about the pillion foot peg. I’m 6 feet 1 inch tall with size 11 shoes (assuming you’re using U.S. shoe sizes). With the rear pegs down my heels bump the pegs but when they are up I give a small twist of my legs, going toes in, and I don’t even notice anymore. With the pegs down I have actually started to rest my heels on the back pegs and resting my toes on the front. It helps during a little bit longer rides, allows me to wiggle and shift my feet and legs around. I have just completed my 600 mile break in and now about to turn over 700 miles on mine showing it doesn’t really take long to become accustomed to working with the rear pegs. Mostly the only folks I hear making it a big deal are the ones doing test rides who have to come up with something to say on a video. There is a caveat though. If you actually have a passenger using the pegs expect to bump feet frequently. My wife likes to come along sometimes so we only use the Tracer for short rides. We will take the Star Venture for longer rides so we each have our own floorboards. I’m assuming most folks don’t have multiple bikes in the garage so if you take someone with you you’d go on what you have. Honestly it really is quite comfortable with her on the back and she enjoys it too. It does limit the foot room you have as the pilot, but not to the point it’s uncomfortable, in my opinion. Bottom line, I love the thing. Ride it rain or shine. It performs well and has become my daily commuter. I live only 6 miles from work so sometimes I take side trips home just because I enjoy the ride. I did put the 50L top box on in order to fit my computer bag for work so I do not have to where a backpack. I also got the back rest for the top box and the Mrs. says it makes a big difference in comfort. Downside is the large box, while it will actually hold two helmets or my computer bag, it does look like an Uber Eats delivery bike now. It also hangs back, way back. I looked at doing a fender eliminating kit and that’s when I realized the lights and plate are so far back that you don’t even see the fender anymore and if I mount the plates to the bottom of the seat pan it is too far back to be seen by anyone not directly behind you and I’m just not interested in talking to the police that frequently about “not having a visible plate”. I hope any of this helps. I love mine, honestly. Other than my first bike I think this is my favorite ride I’ve ever had. P.S. My riding style is relaxed and easy. I don’t wheelie, but this bike did it easily with TC turned off, and I don’t lane split. I just like a bike that is smooth and on the interstate when I have to go to the corporate office (1 hour 20 minutes away) it can cut the time for the trip down and keep up with traffic. This bike will get me across town in a jiffy and when trying to break free from the pack you need to be careful because three digits sneak up on you easily.

[@sid4113]

Can you give some updates on owning the bike, and any issues with the bike.

[@Apothas541]

This reminds me of my old fz6 (not fz6r)... is that what these are based off of?

[@normanhughedicko4076]

Time to change that rear taillight and full led signal lights

[@mikeskidmore6754]

I rode an Indian FTR-1200 yesterday .. Tons of Torque 123 HP very smooth 85 FT lbs of Torque .. Not sure if it can be turned into a Torturing Bike I added a LED light to my FZ-07 adjust the low beam properly and then the High Beam is too high Adjust the high beam properly and low beam is too low . Tracer has separate high and low beam very nice

[@mikeskidmore6754]

@Rod Rebman 3.4 gallon plastic tank with most of it under the seat.. Not much frame work in the back to attach luggage to either.. They do sell a rear luggage rack for it ..

[@Merkaba954]

The tracer is considered an adventure bike if I recall right? Feel like I watched a video last night about it

[@GEBoord]

@ 5:41 , you probably dont know what a slipperclutch does right?