Any good? Yamaha Tracer 9 GT - Lessons Learned Review

Any good? Yamaha Tracer 9 GT - Lessons Learned Review: On a rare hot and sunny summers day I went out to record my summary review of the new bike. No bike is perfect and there are a few things that annoy, but there's lots to like too - here's what I thought of the bike at the end of my loan period.
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[@lauriew2907]

The daytime running lights didn’t get my attention. But the pretty girl walking past as you was showing the lights got my full attention.

[@sintramarsh]

Ha.... Me too 😋

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I didn’t notice….

[@Alex-HD]

Brocom

[@robbikebob]

@@TheMissendenFlyer that sir is either a lie or your starting to get old....... ( or Mrs Flyer has told you off for the usual 'well hello ladies',and your saying it to save your hide! )

[@springy-2112]

Can't say I noticed ...honest, your honour !! 😲 👍🏻☮❤

[@Mr2OOM]

You missed an opportunity there Mr F .. I noticed the reflections on the TFT screen and my first thought was they need a matt finish screen protector from your friends at speed angels .. It worked very well on my AT ..

[@BazzerObama]

I bought a 6 month old GT in preference to this new model for many of the reasons that you highlight, those awful panniers and that terrible dash for starters plus the fact that I saved £3,000. The seat on mine is also a pain in the derrière. I’m baffled as to why Yamaha can’t make a comfortable seat for any Tracer model. I know lots of owners have purchased Corbin or Sargent aftermarket seats, but they aren’t cheap. I tried the Yamaha ‘comfort’ seat but that hardly made any difference for the £200 that they wanted for it. I bought an Airhawk cushion which has solved the problem for me but it doesn’t do much for the aesthetics of the bike. Thanks for an honest review, I’m loving my Tracer too, it’s a cracking bike for the money……….if only Yamaha could sort out a comfortable seat, after all it is a touring bike!!

[@Doughboy39]

Brilliant review as usual, looking forward to hear your review on the new yamaha tracer 9gt+(2023 model),

[@eddysadventures1964]

Just love your honest reviews. Especially pointing out the things that are usually never addressed during reviews but are important to average riders (like the foot peg position, the one light issue, etc.).

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good stuff Eddy - appreciate your kind words!

[@eddysadventures1964]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I am looking at the Tracer as a replacement for my 2020 KTM Super Adventure S (which I bought in the spring). The KTM is brilliant but very tall and more powerful than I need. It’s turning me into an aggressive rider which I don’t like. Thoughts?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Think the Tracer will feel somewhat flimsy after the big Austrian....

[@TheCrookedWheel]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I also liked the hardware issues you found, like the seat hardness and peg position, but most of your complaints were (arguably very minor) aesthetic issues. Kind of devalues the entire review.

[@anthonyfox2836]

Brilliant video - zippy as hell. Very informative. On our 420km blood bikes charity run, the two bikes out front were Tracers. They led the group all day, fast but safe pace. Great bike. Thanks Mr. Fly, good to learn something about them.

[@BennyHolden-ls7sj]

Thank you for a direct "on point" review, everything you need to know including positive/negatives! great review.

[@robwebber1217]

Every other review has sang it's praises, well done for confirming what the rest of us can see and they can't, the screen, panniers, exhaust and TFT are ugly as hell, for 12k they would be a deal breaker for me personally.

[@kevinjones7732]

Personally I like the bike save for the dash. Love the way “auto captions” sign you off as the Mystery Fly. 🙄

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I’ll take it!

[@robertbasford1295]

Just had a look and sit on one today. Same problem as you with the footpegs in the way. Not many KZbin reviews mention this problem so a big thumbs up!!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Robert!

[@cyrusm3391]

Did you end up getting it?

[@rhugh02]

Other than the peg position this is a good bike for shorter riders. The competition bikes you mentioned are all very tall and top heavy. IMO... With the windshield issue sorted out this bike rocks.

[@Mike-er7ym]

I’m glad you mentioned that you were wearing an airbag vest! I was getting worried that you had become one of the POLITE brigade! 😲

[@martinkavanagh9641]

What a lovely drop of weather for filming ..

[@Keyboardnut99]

Good review, I have one and agree on the screen I have the comfort seat and don’t find that hard. It is a big improvement on the 900GT and incredibly fun to ride. Thankfully you can now get a full face helmet in the panniers as you can’t get a top box bracket yet Yamaha don’t have any … major annoyance

[@PaulieTheCreature]

Waiting for my bracket aswell, but also waiting for the quickshifter since I got the standard model. It's expected after summer or even later :'((( Getting the heated grips fitted tomorrow tho :)

[@cervinkapav]

I have mine already 😉

[@chr15b]

Another great review - thank you! I bought my GSXS-750 following your review and am looking at one of these at my local Yamaha dealer.

[@spdaltid]

Lovely bike, actually I quite like the panniers. Instrument panels - not so much. But the bike is on my list!

[@amandaleeming5527]

Finally took the 9GT out today and very impressed. I obviously have better padding on my backside as I didn’t find the seat tiring 😁 Lots of fun as it’s a triple I think and not as ‘off road’ looking like the Tiger. Tracer GT for me :)

[@docmarten8382]

Nice honest appraisal, and to be honest, I don’t know of any motorcycle that is perfect, straight out of the box. I’m not keen on the clocks…. A weird design idea pushed into production.

[@frankstocker5475]

The screen, windscreen, panniers, seat & clocks would be the deal-breaker for me. It's not an ugly bike but you don't look back when it's parked. Good review Andy.

[@johnsumser9743]

Good to see you wearing your airbag vest. After your review of the vest and the review of Ryan Fortnine, I bought one; takes a bit of getting used to, but I wear it when I expect to be riding in traffic. Thanks!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes a bit of faff but way less than a shattered sternum, broken back, punctured lung, etc

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

There are improvements but also some slips ... like always. Nice and in detail review.

[@starseeddeluxe]

The Tracer GT has the best sounding triple engine in the world right now. But it feels like Yamaha needs to give their engine to Royal Enfield. Or Yamaha needs to simply fire every single designer and artist, and only retain their mechanical engineers---their entire lineup of bikes is not suitable [visually and aesthetically] for UK and North American tastes. The strange insect-like body shape and confusing, almost accidental design decisions, are questionable. Japanese motorcycles just haven't looked right in the last 20 years.

[@stephenpotts8170]

Yes I think your summing up on the tracer was fair and accurate, one other thing to mention is how reasonable the Main dealer service pricing is for the Tracer which may be a consideration for some people who are thinking of buying a tracer...

[@Bush0r]

I totally agree with the lights and the exhaust. Luckily Akrapovic came up with a nice exhaust in the last weeks.

[@jerryandnancywertzbaugher7778]

I had to settle for a BMW F900XR because my preferred bikes, a Tracer 900GT or Triumph Tiger 900 were unavailable due to high demand. Got the XR as a 2020 left-over at a good discount. The XR is fine, but I still have Tracer and Tiger envy. Both I think have livelier handling and engine. XR is just a step off on engine perforance. And BMW is awful with it's pricing on extras. Bottom line; if your looking for this sort sport-touring bike, plan ahead and get on the Tracer or Tiger wait-list.😎

[@Lolpyyy]

I was really considering a F900XR last year already but just couldnt get excited enough about the engine coming from a MT-07. Got a bit lucky and getting my 9GT in a few days. Great bikes all though and each has some things I like and some I don't.

[@Chips690]

Genuinely believe that this is a good bike. For me though having ‘Johnny Five’ staring back at me just puts me off! And once you’ve seen it you can’t get it out of your head!!!!!!!

[@Scarffinator]

A Yamaha dealer told me the single light is to help ensure your bike is not confused as a further away car in somebody’s rear view mirror. Which makes sense, right? I’d still prefer them both to come on though.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes that’s the reasoning I always hear - still don’t like it!

[@peterblackburn3155]

Very helpful summary, thank you. Hmm I have a shortlist of this, the Ninja 1000sx, Versys 1000se, 850 GS and Triumph 900 GT Pro plus others. Ah the agony of choice. Be great to see your review of these Kawasaki's. Hope you get the opportunity. All the best and safe riding.

[@adrianmathe3578]

Have a test ride on the v1000. You will love it, in full trim, se version. Better load capacity, better wind protection, better lights, larger, indeed heavier, better suspension, se full electronic adjustment, overall more bike. But it is more money too😁

[@peterblackburn3155]

@@adrianmathe3578 Thanks very much. I will check it out!

[@commo3451]

Great review as usual. I have a Tiger 900 GT Pro and recently borrowed a Tracer. TheTriumph is more refined, looks more premium and is a great all rounder. However, the Yam was more fun, thanks to its increased power and more responsive engine and the confidence-inspiring handling. Enjoyed your balanced review, but not the interruptions from the ads. Its like watching a good film on ITV, only to have the atmosphere spoiled. Hey ho. I acknowledge they provide important income.

[@allwheeldrive]

Panniers I like, screens are okay (saw the anti-glare protector suggestion - done!). Hard seats and crappy windscreens seem to be the fashion today! Some break in, though. But, there must be a touring seat (should come standard!) and a much better screen out there. If I could fix my VStrom 1000 from pummeling my head, I'm sure this can be fixed. The rest is great! Some of the best products don't show off at the beginning, but shine later and longer. Easy to live with is the real endorsement.

[@inplainsight2482]

Agreed - screen & saddle are the worst thing about this new Tracer9-GT… However these are both easy things to change. I’ve just fitted the Yamaha heated comfort seat, this makes a huge difference comfort wise! I have also have an MRA screen on order, which will hopefully sort out that nasty turbulence/buffeting. I like the panniers, I think the angles match the lines of the bike, makes them more roomy too - 30L a side is decent! If you didn’t already know one of those lights on the front is the High Beam, that’s why they are not both on at once, you can of course switch on the High Beam & ride around with that on all the time, during daylight hours.. For me this isn’t a problem at all, neither is the exhaust, It’s not that big & it’s almost completely unseen anyway - being tucked away where it is! Lastly the clocks, I think they are great personally, I like that they have tried something completely different with them, so to set it apart from everything else on the market. 👍🏻

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you’re enjoying the bike!

[@michaelglenn2468]

How did the MRA screen work for you? Looking for a solution. I'm 185cm tall.

[@Richard-dh8ny]

How did the MRA Screen workout for you? Currently trying to determine what aftermarket screen to buy.

[@bobadam4225]

I have had my 900 tracer 4 years. Disappointing yamaha has not yet sorted the hard seat out. I too don't like the look of the new panniers. Apart from that, I love mine. Fantastic centre of gravity means you can flip it about. Aftermarket exhausts make the engine sound even better. I also think it looks beautiful.

[@gordripley1406]

Great review...I must make one comment. Those narrow roads with the vegetation so close to the road leaves no time if something were to ever jump out in front of you (around the 6:40-6:50 mark). Be careful out there TMF!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Something I’m only too aware of!

[@Banditmanuk]

If I were in the market for a middle weight tourer, this would be the bike for me. Hope its still got a simple ignition key? There's a reason there are so many Tracers on the road, well priced and reliable. As for the panniers, I like them because they are styled to actually hold more more than a pair of under-crackers and a T shirt. Most of the time you would probably ride without them anyway.

[@kevinroberts2395]

Agree 100% about the screen and seat. Strangely, Yamaha offer a touring screen and a comfort seat as optional extras. Why not just put the good bits on in production and scrap the crappy ones. Offering the optional upgrades on both is an acknowledgement that the stock ones are poor.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I couldn’t agree more!

[@Peter-wc4kr]

The wind turbulence is a deal breaker for me. There is no guarantee after market screens will fix the problem and sometimes they can make it worse.

[@kyleturner6829]

Thanks very much for your excellent videos. I feel like I rode the Tracer GT right along with you!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Brilliant - thanks Kyle!

[@chrisheggie952]

Great review as usual but I especially liked the way the road said 'slow' and you proceeded to peg the throttle!

[@garethtemple6242]

I've always liked these bikes, although I'm with you on the panniers and instrument panel in the new model...they definitely don't do much for the looks. Having ridden both, which do you prefer between the Yamaha and the Triumph Tiger GT Pro. Personally, much as the Yamaha is good value for money, I'd prefer the Triumph.

[@hollisspear6278]

Great review, all good info, thanks. This bike and the Ninja 1000SX are both contenders for my next ride. Thumbs up on the panniers IMO.

[@chrishart8548]

I love the 1000sx. Preferred the twin exhaust before it got replaced by one massive can instead. And I liked that lightish matt blue colour over the metallic green.

[@JoshuaTootell]

These are also the two highest on my list right now, with the SX being at the top

[@chrishart8548]

@@JoshuaTootell I would have the sx hopefully you can test ride them both. Bet the sx feels more stable. The sx has clip on style handle bars but is a really natural position position (just like a larger ninja 650) I don't really buy into the adventure style of these bike (tracer) just brings downsides with it. Makes the bike taller longer and more expensive + heavier.

[@belly450]

i went through your home town on Sunday. lovely place

[@kevinc112]

Wow! Your video production is second to none. Excellent and informative! 🙏

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Kevin - though I don’t really regard other vloggers as “competition”, there’s plenty of views to go around! Several of them are good friends….

[@kevinc112]

@@TheMissendenFlyer thank you. I meant no disrespect to anyone.🙏

[@windchaser83]

Great review, thanks for your pros and cons! I rode one recently and while the engine is really punchy down low, it lacks a little bit of excitement at higher revs. But maybe that's just me, I had really high expectations on that engine. What really annoyed me was that I permanently hit the center stand with my heel.

[@luiginiolu6842]

I'm guessing you're coming from a high-revving 4-pot engine, as my impressions are exactly the opposite. I've found it a bit weak (and buzzing) low down and ok mid range, but it does have a good push (and induction sound to boot) after 8-9K. But that's me coming mainly from twins and mid 4IL. My other tripe is, as TMF said, are the pegs being in the way when putting the feet down and manoeuvring the bike from stand-still.

[@windchaser83]

@@luiginiolu6842 Not really, but maybe my expectations have been to high as the CP3 was hyped quite a bit. Dont get me wrong, it is a really nice bike, but for me it lacks regarding excitement between 6000-10000rpm. Again for what it is, it is great, but statements like it feels as powerfull as a higher category of bike, I could not reproduce. I have been riding different bikes like GSX-S750, Z1000SX, BMW 1200 Boxer…I would definitly enjoy riding the Tracer 9 if I would own one. Have a great season 🏍️

[@steviewylie5267]

If it's like the 2018 model in 5th and 6th gears the throttle is not open 100% even if it's pinned its r restricted.

[@marwood1969]

I was considering one of these but it's been crossed off the list as a result of your review. It really seems to be far too flawed. Thanks for all your hard work on the channel!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure!

[@fyorbane]

Try the Kawasaki Z1000 Ninja SX. It is regarded by many in the industry as the best sports tourer on the market.

[@jamesmcguckin6288]

Why do most bike manufacturers put uncomfortable seats on their bikes. I suspect to generate more after market sales of the seats they should have fitted in the first place. Same goes with the tail tidies. It seems that it’s all about extracting more cash from us punters. Great engine on the machine , triple. Another thing I don’t like about these is they don’t have a proper frame. The engine looks like it’s suspended. Thanks for another great update on this one Andy . Much appreciated.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure as ever James - cheers!

[@markharrison2484]

Seats, agree 100%, especially on a tourer. Big number plate hangars are a law thing. Iirc the plate has to be behind the wheel.

[@petea1663]

Took this for a test ride, couldn’t agree more re the engine, the strange thing Yamaha have done to make the bike feel half the weight it actually is and the QS is sublime 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad we concur!

[@paulyflyer8154]

Who's bright idea was it to have side-opening panniers which seems to be the trend now?

[@ralfanc]

Great review overall. It feels indeed like a lighter bike than it is [on paper] Agree with you on the weird "one-eyed" driving light. The way I work around it - I always ride with high beams during the day. It is not too much and helps with visibility. I dial back when I ride at night, which is not often.

[@luiginiolu6842]

Although I agree with the weird one-eyed / asymmetrical lighting on the Tracer, it is illegal to ride a bike (or drive a car) on high-beams at all times (day or night) in most of the world, at leat in the EU and UK. High beams should only be used at night on rural / unlit roads and should be dimmed as soon as you face an oncoming car/traffic - that's the law. I've read somewhere that's some aftermarket way of having both (dimmed) lights on at all times in the Tracer, and having a separate bulb for full-beams, but don't quote me on that.

[@stefandiman1104]

Agree with you that it's not the most orthodox way of riding, but I'd rather risk getting a ticket (highly unlikely) than getting hit by some cager who "didn't see me"

[@taswr]

Reviews are all good and well etc…. Reality is most of us have to buy a motorcycle, hand over a huge amount of money on something we will have for years. Get it wrong and you sell the bike and usually lose money. It sux motorcycles aren’t like cars where you can test drive pretty much every model. I believe bike manufacturers would benefit in sales if they allow better testing……. I did buy a tracer900 and thankfully I love it, I will keep this bike for many many years and probably ride it into the ground. But to the bike companies…. Lift ya game and let average Joe test ride more bikes..!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Agreed!

[@ondank]

I understand that the base model bike might come without some features ... But how does a company produce a GT version with so many things in need of replacing. It seems so wasteful for that they produce the screen and seat ect knowing that its gonna get chucked out for aftermarket parts. Just do a better job in the first place and charge £500 quid more.

[@johnschotz1614]

I don’t think a glossy or matt finish on the display would cost more or less money. I think that’s just a mistake Yamaha made. Can’t understand it because they do test the bike before production starts so every test driver would noticed it.

[@markwilliams4911]

“Properly Eager” Best TMF t-shirt ever !

[@andrewgibbs5135]

Thank you for that, such a great all rounder.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure Andrew!

[@stewartnorton6386]

"It is a touring bike so it does come with panties" 🤣 Gotta love generated subs.

[@johnburgess5534]

My 125 town hack has Pegs that stay up when required. Ideal when paddling and pushing bike around. I just have to remember to kick them down before setting off. JB

[@stevec6427]

I test rode one of these last week as a potential replacement for my Tracer 7. I pretty much agree with all your comments really. It was disappointing that the screen is just as crap as on the Tracer 7.

[@Blaxtard]

The seat and the screen are really a pain. I would have expected better aswell. They almost made me sell the bike straight away if it wasn't for the funfactor it has. But an hour is as much as i can last on the seat. I upholstered it and now it is better.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good plan - thanks for the feedback….

[@andycrawley8276]

Keep up the great work ..much appreciated

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Will do Andy thanks….

[@spudgunson]

Great review although putting a pillion on the back for part of the review would give it more credibility. The bike is a GT (Grand Tourer) and reviewing it as a solo rider, no pillion or loaded paniers seems to leave out a huge aspect of the bikes design. Handling, brakes, performance, all are significantly affected when loaded up. Just a thought.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sadly my Mrs wont come on any bike without a backrest and/or top box.....

[@stevesanelli90]

Exactly my sentiments. A bizarre Instrument panel. What were Yamaha thinking? Out of the box? Yep, 2 of them🤔

[@matthewjackson3034]

Good review TMF. Trading in my 21 MT09SP for a new Tracer GT 22. I love the engine on the 09, so made sense to get the tourer which will be a lot better hopefully for 2 up riding.

[@palantir135]

🥸 impossible to not see the face on the dashboard. I’ve got a vario screen too on my bike. You won’t see the exhaust while riding; I wouldn’t mind at all. You can harden your behind by riding a bicycle often. The more I ride my bicycle, the later my behind starts to hurt. It now takes at least four hours to start being numb. I found out yesterday after a six hour ride through Belgium.

[@clay2pot]

Does it not seem strange that so much OEM kit has an alternative that works better, supplied as an extra? Every manufacturer does it and we the customers pay through the nose to get a bike that works as it should have done from new.

[@ironmanmichael]

Man those panniers are an eyesore. And how can it be 'comfy' with a numb bum after an hour and a half?

[@nbrider7235]

I think those are the ugliest panniers I have seen on any bike of any genre. I am usually a function beats form kind of guy but I couldn't live with those - they are horrid. The previous model's panniers were quite good looking so I'm not entirely sure why they changed them.

[@douglasalexander4348]

Iron man….perhaps you should change your name to Snowflake Man ?

[@douglasalexander4348]

@Jay You mean your a biker ?

[@danebrewer10]

Here's an interesting addition that I think would be very valuable to any bike review which has a touring/adventure bent; pack it with enough weight to simulate a weekend camping trip, tent, stove, cookwear sleeping system, all that, and see how the bike handles after that, i know the Cb500x is considered a "small" bike these days, but I was amazed how much difference it made to how planted it feels, but that seems to have a lot to do with the tyres too

[@DatOldeBiker]

Many thanks for your hard work that I know goes into these vids. I always enjoy joining you for the ride. The Yamaha looks to be very capable - if you like this sort of ride. :>)

[@trucktruck8016]

A comparison against the previous model would be of benefit ,as apart from a slight increase in engine cc , the new version has frame/suspension modifications also . As for the single light ,its something you can not see from the seat , and if its annoying to you just knowing its on , whats it doing to other road users ! ..... Just a thought !

[@LickyDischarge]

I had the same issue when paddling the 2020 Africa Twin backwards, the foot pegs were exactly where my legs wanted to be to touch the ground comfortably.

[@trevorphillips3055]

I found the same on a 2017 AT I rode. It was a bit unnerving the first time I put my feet down.

[@LickyDischarge]

@@trevorphillips3055 sold mine because of it. Now on a 2020 KTM 1290GT, a different animal all together.

[@advdecals]

I hope you can review the new and improved Tracer 9GT+. In the US and Canada, the base model Tracer GT will no longer be available, so our only choice is the GT+.. Thanks Andy!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I hope so too!

[@RecklessTurtle]

The reflective screen is due to cost-saving, which this bikes tries to nail. The matte-finish is an extra step in the glass-manufacturing process and this adds cost. What I don't understand is that, why did Yamaha miss the opportunity of an up-sale for matte screens. I'm sure many people would cough-up the extra 200 quid or whatever...

[@joseluisruiz8526]

So, screen, seat and display not so good. Not a good GT then. Kind of disappointing. Thanks for the review.

[@andrewmckillop2264]

SP Engineering will probably do an after market exhaust and cat bypass pipe for the bike.

[@ianlevin954]

I think Akrapovic do one come out the off-side and looks neat

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

The Triumph Tiger 1050 sport was also the same with the peg position “ a pain “

[@mojosdad68]

The scrambler 1200 is the same. Pegs are right where your legs want to be when stopped.

[@nickthequick]

So you need: aftermarket seat, aftermarket windscreen, aftermarket pegs, aftermarket exhaust, aftermarket panniers, aftermarket lights, aftermarket display and you should be just about ready to go. As long as you are ready to accept the way it looks and that it costs the same as a Ninja 1000SX Tourer. Wait a minute ... 🤣

[@bbumble4117]

Spot - on just like Triumph and BMW who seem to design-in the need for replacement parts so that they rip you off. Customisation for personal taste is fine, having pay over the odds to fix avoidable failings is not.

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

@@bbumble4117 Spot on.

[@ridewherever]

Hey Nick, I’ve got a ninja sx question for ya. The cruise control button, has that cracked/broke for you at all from simply using it?

[@nickthequick]

@@ridewherever nope, and I have done 17000 km on it now, in just under a year, using the cruise control often

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

@@luko560 More attractive with only two cases, no top box. Other than that I agree.

[@headrace4863]

Good effort Yamaha, shame about the max-headroom shades for clocks though… cheers TMF great job!! 👍

[@garryhackett1053]

Good to see one in a nice sunny day

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Tell me about it! Been a rubbish summer this year….

[@simonthomas5367]

Morning TMF! Nice reviews, thx. Looks like one of the best value all rounders on the market today! If you're around the Alps this summer, drop me a line!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I wish Simon, I wish!!

[@kellyburton6698]

Love my 2020 GT, full Delkevic race exhaust and a few other farkles.......hoot to ride and so capable as a sport tourer or hooligan machine.

[@ioandragulescu6063]

@11:37 since my trusty V Strom 650 is at the dealers getting a suspension upgrade, the 9 GT loaner that they gave me is plenty exciting and thrilling :)

[@lonniecross4698]

Folks gripe about the headlights. My 2015 only uses 1 side when on lowbeam and folks tell me all the time that I have a light out. even in traffic. They notice it. That's a good thing when you're out riding... being noticed. Being seen.

[@David-dg4vo]

Morning Andy Just got back from a warm but damp road test and I’m going with the Tiger 900 GT Pro with full Trekker luggage, a few reasons I didn’t like the Tracer and that was mainly the wind noise, had trouble reading the dash layout as the numbers where to small, plus I didn’t like the two dash layout, I didn’t like the switchgear, indicator switch was hard to use and I kept catching my legs on the footpegs when moving it around. I’m picking the Tiger up around the 1st week of Jan Thanks every so much for your help, hope you have a great Christmas David

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You too David - and good choice, I'd have the Tiger over the Tracer any day, lovely bike, congratulations!

[@David-dg4vo]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Thanks Andy I think the feel of ownership with the Triumph is much better as well, I think you guys call it “the cost to look back” with the Yam it was just a bike, the Tiger I felt nice to be on it, if that makes any sense at all

[@constantinosschinas4503]

I think the T9 looks like a Dorsoduro and handles like one: light yet totally planted.

[@douglasalexander4348]

On an upright sitting bike there is a lot of weight on your backside. My sports bikes seat is firmer but more comfortable as weight is on arms as well.. When I’m out for a spirited ride I much prefer a firmer seat. On a tour I use an air hawk copy. If you want comfort buy a Goldwing or a car.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I have!

[@douglasalexander4348]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Haha, yes! So that’s why you find the Tracer a bit hard ! Do a seat swap? sure you’ve got some gaffa tape and some cable ties ? I agree with your views, but boy is the tracer fun when you let it rip, and I spend more time doing that than touring or going down A ( white van man) roads. Sold my GL and bought the Tracer. A very tall or very short screen works, anything in the middle ie stock is pants.

[@maskedavenger2578]

I find hard seats usually work out better on long runs ,soft seats feel great on short runs but give me back ache on longer runs .It didn’t matter years ago as I stopped every hour or to stretch my legs & smoke a ciggy .The screen looks useless although does an adventure bike need to be fast or even have a quick shifter .,I thought the idea of touring was the journey & to travel at speeds to be able see the sights ,All my bikes have traction control &rain modes plus ABS it’s called me the rider .If I this was the only bike of this type I could have ,I would junk the horrible screen or at least fit a decent add on wind deflector ,get rid of the grotesque panniers ,fit a removable top case & just bungee the rest of swag in dry sacks to rear seat & soft panniers .But I would be more likely to source a good used & well maintained Honda African twin if I was intent on carrying all but the kitchen sink on an A road / motorway glam camping or Hotel tour adventure .I take it like in the case of the Sinnis Terrain 125 that you won’t be exchanging your GS anytime soon for one of these bikes then Mr Flyer .👍

[@mikehamilton9128]

Love the bike, but the single dipped beam thing just smacks of short-sighted cost-cutting. Black mark Yamaha! The exhaust is fine by me. It allows a nice, slim and balanced bike and it doesn't steal space from the panniers. The panniers themselves look awful! I'm not sure about the split TFT screen but then I am not a TFT fan anyway. I prefer an analogue rev counter and a nice clear digital speedometer. Will it tempt me away from my Super Tenere? Hmmm, we'll see!

[@chuckdyer]

The previous versions of the Tracer have a single dipped beam. In the daytime I ride with the high beam on. This allows both beams to be on.

[@Kurkess]

I got rid of my Yamaha specifically because of the poor build quality. Granted it was not a GT but that shouldn't make no difference of the quality. I owned mine for a year and rode just more than 10.000km on it in all weather, commuting, for fun and travel. But after that year my Tracer looked terrible. Paint flecked of the enginepart in the front, rust was showing on the rear swing arm and several other stuff that clearly was an issue of a cheaper bike. I agree with you on a lot of points though. The engine is phenomenally fun - very snappy and perfect on the twisties - engine modes actually felt very different. Very light and easy to move around (I did trade my 1200GSA in for the Tracer so of course that would be noticable). And yes the windprotection is absolutely horrible on the Tracer. I tried 4 different windscreens and never found a setup that I was satisfied with (Puigs low racing screen maybe the best but thats like riding a naked bike). One last thing was instability at higher speeds - I rarely took mine above 130kmt/h because I felt a slight wobble in the rear - mine was a 2019 model - maybe they made a change on never models. In short - I sold it and bought a Kawasaki Versys 1000 (2015).

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oh dear - sorry to hear of your troubles with the Tracer!

[@simonrobinson7536]

Sounds like a good all round bike, the panniers need some stickers on. The Tracer always has had trouble with its screen

[@RStantun]

As an older Tracer 900 owner I tend to agree with you with most of your conclusions, motor and handling are superb, wind protection sh!t. Centre stand is very useful but don't run the back wheel in gear to lubricate the chain as it sends an error message to dash.

[@grandenauto3214]

ABS causing it? Can it be turned off?

[@murdocampbell4858]

Great video, as always! The one-light thing could perhaps save your bacon. At junctions, and in certain conditions, two lights approaching can be mistaken by sleepy car-drivers for a car in the distance, and they might pull out in front of you. Disaster. My Tiger Rally Pro has only one light on dipped beam, and although I’m not keen on the look, I’m thankful for it. BTW, remember to “butterfly” approaching Mr Sleepy at the junction to help him with his depth and distance perspectives.

[@f109ged]

I was going to say the same. I've had cars pull out of junctions on me at night when riding with twin headlights. They look like a distant car to an unwitting driver!

[@rossb7746]

My understanding is that these are the 'cornering lights', controlled in part if not entirely by the IMU. I suspect the right side light is on because the bike on its side stand is leaning to the left. That right-side light illuminates the corner for left turns. I could be wrong.

[@racerdaveracerdave]

Still needs a single TFT.

[@ridewherever]

The pegs would bother me the most. I’m 50/50 on the dash. Wasn’t last years model just 1 TFT screen? I also think if they made the whole thing black with the blue stripe it would look sexier.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it was

[@cpuuk]

Hard seats: Why are so many touring bikes so uncomfortable to sit on?

[@PCERules]

Noticed you were driving round Watford there, hope that’s a sneaking hint to the return of the Royal Enfield! Lovely video TMF!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I did indeed go for a visit to my trusty Enfield!

[@carlwalker4936]

I know they are a bit of a different proposition but I'm thinking this or the Z1000SX, anyone any thoughts on this? I prefer the 1000SX styling and concept in terms of it being more sports than tourer, but hate the fact there is no centre stand which has proved a life saver on the big trips, plus the woeful lack of anything useful in terms of tech, I mean, they didn't even include heated grips!! For the Tracer, it seems a lot more practical for touring, just wondering how it is on longer runs?

[@bobholley6202]

Nice bike but I totally agree with you Andy. The exhaust is awful. The old exhaust they put in the old FJ09 here stateside was much better.

[@stevotaylor6548]

Hi VIS airbag vest. Only 25% of drivers are aware of you. Even with a Visi vest on. So Just go with I AM INVISIBLE TO ALL. Then you will never need the airbag feature either...Stevo From Australia. P.S. everything Yamaha are doing isn't as good as Triumph have done years ago.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Interesting logic!

[@alexmorgan3435]

Should have plugged your sponsors Speedo Angels to sort the glare out. Maybe an MT-09 SP would be a better option.

[@filipepaninho6558]

I still prefer the previous Tracer 900GT version! The panniers are just too small for a helmet and having tried a Tracer 900 (non GT) I hated the windscreen... but still an option.

[@user-qh6vz6cx8n]

Hard seat DOES NOT MEAN UNCOMFORTABLE. Means GOOD for long distances.

[@1over137]

The always do that crap with the headlights. I bet when you switch to high beam it switches off the low beam too. Dual headlight conversion is usually a beefy diode for the later. It depends on if the headlights are dual mode dipped/high or one of each. It is alegedly because ... a motorcycle with 2 lights can apparently look like a car much further away. People see two lights, they assume car at 400 yards, when it's actually a bike at 50 yards.

[@1over137]

Are the headlights 12V or is there a complex wiring/ballast too boot? That could make the conversion, not as easy, but it has to be mod-able.

[@alfienichols9524]

I’m not so sure on the lights but I hope you enjoyed it

[@pavelsambuev2123]

The lights are like that for safety. If both were on, at night time you would look like a car in the distance.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That’s what they say don’t they….

[@dlittlester]

I'd like to see it with shaft drive. Two of my bikes were equipped like that, and I'd never have a chain again.

[@ondank]

I think shaft adds too much cost for a more budget bike like this.

[@chrishart8548]

Cost and weight probably be as expensive and heavy as a xtz1200z if a shaft drive was added .