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.

[@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.

[@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

[@ismet_sxv]

Please more bike videos! 🙏 Awesome vid

[@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.

[@0toeknee0]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@yassim0008]

My XSR900 cousin!😍. Love our triple!

[@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.

[@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.

[@Fredricksen390]

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

[@rubberskilla2991]

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

[@racerdaveracerdave]

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

[@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.

[@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?

[@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.

[@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.

[@ZORANSKORIN]

You are very talented young man,good for you.

[@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.

[@ScottyBennitone]

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

[@juanitotiberius9629]

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

[@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

[@FTZONERACING]

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

[@pmp0giboy]

Great review

[@bog1dan]

Great video !

[@normanhughedicko4076]

Time to change that rear taillight and full led signal lights

[@hdidane00]

This is informative thank you.

[@ChaohsiangChen]

TFL motorcycles, when?

[@jamieshields9521]

Great vid on Yamaha👍

[@Agislife1960]

I sure would like to see the Japanese bikes using the hand guards and rearview mirrors as turn blinkers instead of sticking the on the body work.

[@Pmason718]

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

[@Merkaba954]

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

[@dmegahan]

This Tommy’s motorcycling cousin?

[@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.

[@davideccles1617]

I watch a lot of reviews and I hate bull shit reviews which most of them are , your review is superb.

[@sid4113]

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

[@ronmimnaugh7674]

Great review. This is on my short list for the next bike.

[@spanatko]

"ugly, horrible yamaha turn signals"... well these are functional, greatly visible, it is nearly impossible to break them & they work perfectly...

[@carlosandleon]

still ugly though. Aesthetically. Slender LED signals look far better

[@wirenut3020]

Carlos Leon but the leds while bright are much less attention grabbing and more difficult to see. I know other riders in my group told me my blinkers sucked and if they can’t see them what’s the old lady in the minivan going to say?

[@davideccles1617]

Where did you get that windscreen?

[@mikeskidmore6754]

Nice Job you make the Tracer tempting to me .. FZ-07 was the wrong choice for me as I have side cases and Top case on my FZ-07 still need a serious wind screen .. All the same this bike would be squirrely on a dirt road .. I need to go to specs and find out the weight. Too bad stock windscreen is so bad !

[@GEBoord]

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

[@mts982]

TFL (motor)Cycles might be a better category.

[@russ02281990]

Actually the big change came about in 2018

[@ktm-kr9mm]

I sold my 2016 tracer it was great for the 1st 6 month's then the power gets boring you will find yourself ringing it's neck and will want more out of it.

[@GEBoord]

Exactly what im afraid of (now riding a r1, but want 2 change to something more upright)

[@yorkchris10]

For this size, I go with low maintenance drivetrain. The Japanese tried shaft in the 80's.

[@carlosandleon]

just oil it dude, takes like 3 seconds

[@samuelwhite8681]

Hey if their guitars are decent maybe their bikes are too😂

[@ChevyNglockMan]

Their bikes are great👍 super reliable

[@josh8494]

That’s funny because they have used the instrument team to help tune the exhaust on some bikes, like the current Ventures.

[@samuelwhite8681]

@@ChevyNglockMan same deal with their guitars. May not have the best sound but are a bang for your dollar.

[@samuelwhite8681]

@@josh8494 I'm not surprised.

[@dmegahan]

Who are you?

[@victoreous626]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qGbOnnadi810ers

[@chasedeal5631]

I have a 2015 MT...bike is AWFUL! Shakes like crazy, crap transmission...so bad! I miss my inline 4 Kawasaki ZRX!

[@martinfranch7551]

bla bla bla, you are pretendig to be competent

[@kaspersergej]

Ffs freedom units

[@Edgunsuk]

Never herd some one so scared of a bike ( mt o9 ) you sure you should be riding at all ?

[@shafikdiwan1869]

What a useless comment

[@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.

[@declary]

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

[@ismet_sxv]

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

[@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.

[@moscty]

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

[@Bikerbug2020]

moscty - smart kid

[@PBaraik]

Tell him to get a job.

[@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!

[@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?

[@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...

[@foolishcoyote.]

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

[@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.

[@JR-rj8nd]

Advice: save a bit more money and go for the GT version.

[@PartialS]

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

[@byronwhite3620]

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

[@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 )

[@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.

[@protectork9831]

I have 2017 fz09 it is insane

[@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...

[@GIGABACHI]

Hah . . . never had seen this kid and his motorcycle videos before . . . is there more ? I enjoyed it. He could get better with more camera time . . . like Tommy and Mike did.

[@davideccles1617]

Brilliant review well done young man.

[@TopMixVlogph]

Nice bike, let’s make friend

[@Deeno282]

You're a skinny guy how would this bike be for somebody that's 6'3 260 lb would it have enough highway power to stay 70 without red line in the whole time or close to redlining would I be too tall for it I'm just looking for like a sport touring bike that's comfortable and I can ride all day without my back hurting from leaning over

[@stevenfarmwald6979]

Excellent review! Thinking of upgrading from the MT07. Thanks

[@billgilkerson5294]

You completely dismissed complaints of vibes, and no reasoning? Being 22 I am inclinded to wonder what bikes you compare it too? Little more info there but good review otherwise.

[@irvan36mm]

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

[@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?

[@robertlee8042]

Your height has very little to do with your ability to flat foot. Your head size has as much. There is only one thing that relates to your ability to flat foot-the length of your legs. Inseam.

[@coccicar]

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

[@insanetharapy6948]

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

[@dougiequick1]

what a stupid looking windshield ...why the hell do people hate windshields?

[@bjrnchrstn]

Sound kilks it for me 😒

[@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"

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@amdomag]

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

[@keldonator]

91 octane is a bummer

[@guitarmotoph]

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

[@kikoy08]

crossplane not in-line 3

[@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.

[@Elliot00000]

Wow the blanked off controls for the cruise control is a massive reminder you couldn't afford the nicer model

[@deanpropert4641]

What bike do you have ?

[@hunterman600cc]

Not poopoo'ing the new hotness, but I'm not seeing anything my almost 13 year old FZ6 doesn't do... Unless you get the GT, I'd kill for cruise control. Ok, it's a triple. But so's mine if I forget a spark plug. ;) Just realized you were 10 when I got my bike. :(

[@chris6559]

Good review, I have the GT and I pretty much agree with all you've said, I get 63miles to the gallon according to the computer which, if correct, is remarkable especially given the power available. After 10,000 miles this summer touring Europe and Scotland she's tucked away for the British Winter (salted roads rather than pussy rider!) and I can't wait for the Spring. Stay safe and ride on!

[@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!

[@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!!

[@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..