Yamaha Niken GT...Two Front Wheels. What a Trip!!!

Specs below...I'd never even heard of the Yamaha Niken GT until my buddy, Brett at RideNow SoCal in Vista, offered it up for me to take it out and review it. At first I was concerned that there would be no use for two front wheels with a 16" separation between contact points on the ground but once I rode it I understood what it was about. More rider stability with the lean and feel of a two wheeled motorcycle. Love it or hate it, what a trip to look at this very unique machine. Personally, I love it!!! More confidence in all riding conditions, road scenarios and very comfortable to take for many miles on your next adventure. Would I trade my Harley in for it?...No! But I wouldn't trade my Harley in for any bike no matter how new are how technologically advanced. Why?...because I'm attached to my 2000 Road King Classic. I feel the need to be honest about how I am as a rider and that if you are looking for the newest, best bike on the market, at least ride this once. Of course, this depends on your style of riding. I am not a canyon carver. If you are, this will not be the bike for you. If you want more confidence in the turns with stability and comfort you at least owe this beautiful beast one ride to make sure you don't judge it before you try it. It is responsive in the throttle both in acceleration and deceleration. Not quite like an electric bike but you'll notice it when you are on it both at higher and lower speeds. You want attention? You'll get it. I had several people drive by the coffee shop where I had it parked and take pictures, on the road and when I returned it to RideNow SoCal, in Vista. It reminds me of a Transformer. Particularly, Optimus Prime! Please subscribe to Motorcycle Monkey and share it with your friends. Ride Safely and I'll see you on the next one...
Motorcycle Monkey: www.motorcyclemonkey.com/
RideNow SoCal: www.ridenowsocal.com/
ENGINE
Engine Type
847cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder; 12 valves
Bore x Stroke
78.0mm x 59.1mm
Compression Ratio
11.5:1
Fuel Delivery
Fuel Injection with YCC-T
Transmission
6-speed; multiplate assist and slipper wet clutch
Final Drive
Chain
CHASSIS
Suspension / Front
43mm/41mm LMW dual tube fork, adjustable rebound and compression damping; 4.3-in travel
Suspension / Rear
Single shock, adjustable preload (w/remote adjuster) and rebound damping; 4.9-in travel
Brakes / Front
Dual hydraulic disc, 298mm; ABS
Brakes / Rear
Hydraulic disc, 282mm; ABS
Tires / Front
Dual 120/70R15
Tires / Rear
190/55R17
DIMENSIONS
L x W x H
84.6 in x 34.8 in x 56.1 in
Seat Height
32.9 in
Wheelbase
59.4 in
Rake (Caster Angle)
20.0°
Trail
2.9 in
Wheel Track
16.1 in
Maximum Ground Clearance
5.9 in
Maximum Lean Angle
45.0°
Fuel Capacity
4.8 gal
Fuel Economy**
42.3 mpg

[@Clampett01]

Best high definition close up shots of any review I have seen. I really like your attention to detail. Excellent video, I'm now subscribed.

[@MotorcycleMonkey]

Thanks very much. You made my day. I appreciate it and if you have feedback in the future please let me know.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

I am interested in acquiring one of these bikes for the additional front-wheel security, even though I have done 250,000 miles on conventional motorcycles.

[@Skymaxy]

I like the way my Niken annoys people. 😁

[@MotorcycleMonkey]

Ha! I really did enjoy the bike. I'm good with two front wheels.

[@savageminion5257]

@@MotorcycleMonkey i might get one this weekend. i wonder if ill get a wave from other motorists lol

[@MotorcycleMonkey]

@@savageminion5257 If you do get one, let me know. I enjoyed the ride...

[@savageminion5257]

Motorcycle Monkey went to the dealership yesterday. I was actually shocked at how massive it looked. It’s was like seeing a bear in real life for the first time and then realizing all he wanted was a sandwich. after warming up to it I decided to get it. Should be here in two weeks. I’m wondering if I should soften the suspension a bit or just leave it. I’m 5’7” and both feet were not planted as well as I would like. Or I may just get height shoes.

[@christianliaudrotter150]

Used in tour de France.

[@laryangel4082]

you can fold the mirrors in

[@cosak23]

old news but it's pronounced knee- ken , meaning two swords/blades. has cruise control too .

[@OldDogZeroTricks]

The origin of the meaning of the words, yeah. However, as a product name the Japanese are calling it a Niken as per this video.

[@wilsonborkowski2984]

This is literally an advertisement for this bike. Not at all an impartial review.