Yamaha Tracer 900 GT Launch Review

Here's our first look at the new Yamaha Tracer 900 GT We've done it all for this one, rain, sun, road and even track.
Sponsored by bikedevil.net/

[@norbert_engel]

Such a great review! And so utterly spot on. I just picked up a 2018 Tracer 900 even though I'd been lusting after a Multistrada 950 for months. I took the Multistrada out for a test ride, liked it a lot and loved the looks. Then, just before I put my money down on the Multi, I took the Tracer for a ride and simply found it more exciting and more nimble. I also like its looks (I appreciate that it's not trying to hide the fact that it's a sports tourer), but more importantly, I love the ride:)

[@Bikes_and_Hacks]

I'm a simple person: when I see someone reviewing a bike with a coffee in his hand, I immediately give a thumb up and believe in every single word he says.

[@dardobartoli]

I know this is rather an old review, but this video (and your other one) was instrumental in me swapping out the awesome Street 765 for the Tracer 900GT. It is so comfortable, fun and just a general do it all really well bike (without ever excelling). Thanks again.

[@dardobartoli]

I bought the Phantom blue Tracer 900GT and this video played a key role in my decision. After 4 months of ownership and few modifications I have revisited many of the reviews I used as part of my selection diligence. First I wish to say that this is by far the most informative and reminds us that 'it's what's important or suits us', but also sometimes you do get what you pay for. Well done on an excellent review. I did try the Multistrada as per your other review, but hated the twin engine!

[@donnyazoff980]

Great review mate. I recently sold a 2016 Multistrada 1200S and bought a Tracer 900GT and it’s the best thing I ever did. The Tracer is lighter, just about as fast, uses a fraction of the fuel and unlike the Ducati the Yamaha has been super reliable.

[@MarMont67]

Best review i have seen... Nothing, no one comes close to this moto- journalist

[@jorgensundqvist9294]

By far the best review of the Tracer 900GT on KZbin. But i'm not suprised. Will be having my black 900GT before the end of May and now i really cant wait. 😊

[@Certago]

Have seen pretty much all the reviews and agree, this is the best, followed by the Missenden Flyer? I've tested the bike as well now and it'll get my money soon enough, great move up from an XJ6!

[@philpbrumby]

Your reviews are excellent !!

[@RedRoo13]

On point the whole 10 minutes. This man knows how to deliver a proper bike assessment. Kudos to you, Sir!

[@JC-uq7tp]

This has to be one of the most legit, straight to the point bike reviews covering all angles ive seen. Will def keep an eye on this channel.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks for the feedback Jon, hope you enjoy more of what we have to come in 2019.

[@NZsarge1]

One of the best reviews of a bike I’ve seen in a long time and that’s not just because I like the bike.

[@PedroDVC]

You guys here in Bike World really give great reviews and I mean, all of you! Cheers!

[@I_am_Thursday]

I've ridden faster and I've ridden more expensive, but in 30 years of riding that CP3 engine is my absolute favourite. For me, with my XSR, for everyday riding on my local roads it's unbeatable.

[@mag28]

About time we got a real review of the bike. Great review. I just subscribed to the channel cause I liked the review so much!!!

[@bikeridernz6169]

Such a competent review. Really really enjoyed your style.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Bike Rider NZ thanks

[@th7321]

An engaging and thoughtful review. Thanks Mr. Hogan

[@seanashenden]

once again a top top review .. good job

[@Four30]

Straight to the point and full of relevant, expert insights, excellent review, thanks

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great vid as ever chaps really enjoyed that - can't wait to have a go on one of these puppies myself sometime soon....

[@CBRboy1717]

TheMissendenFlyer Yay!

[@sandracampbell4060]

I get mine in 4 days time. After seeing the reviews on the new GT I’m looking forward to getting my hands on it and enjoying a great new bike and another review of course from TMF!

[@chrisheggie952]

It seems they've finally made a bike I could replace my TDM900 with (when I'm good and ready...).

[@robertbates1079]

Yes come on Tmf.... I want one.

[@cpuuk]

This was the bike I wanted after the visit to 2017 bike show, but Yamaha really came too late for me.

[@timmo3351]

Cracking review, I must be getting on if sports tourers are starting to appeal!

[@smalltalk.productions9977]

thanks for the effort and the sharing. i am looking forward to the gt getting to the usa. i have read that it should be here by autumn 2018. somehow that feels like a long time from spring 2018, especially when you want to hop on the gt right now! thumbs up.

[@redrider736]

Absolutely great video review this is a sweet bike that may replace my 2011 Triumph Sprint GT

[@jdperfecto]

Great review!!As always.

[@bwxmoto]

Yamaha are killing it! I love that motor in my XSR. If I wanted a sports touring, I would definitely get this bike.

[@irving8549]

New to the channel. I enjoy ur professionalism, also you are well spoken. Look forward to watch more videos. Keep up the great work.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks!

[@nesanrockstar5296]

Best bike I've ever fall in love. This is my dream bike that I always imagine owning and riding one. My top favorite bike ever since the first time the MT-09 Tracer came out.

[@JR-rj8nd]

Awesome bike! I Upgraded from a mt07 and its such a difference. Great for touring and commuting everyday to work with still enough power to have some fun.

[@travelinben1966]

Superb review of a fantastic machine.Thank you.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks

[@adamperkins3125]

Got a 2016 Versys 1k but I'm tempted to test ride on of these!

[@Grauditt]

Brilliant review. I've a 2015 Tracer that I've had since launch and love it. Been thinking of going for the MT10 Touring next and now this comes along... decisions decisions...

[@urtoastbadvised]

I want one!

[@richardhretczak536]

4 years later and I’m on my 5th Tracer (2015 FJ09, 2017, 2019 Tracer 900 standard, 2019 GT and now on 2019 again). Averaging 30000 km a year (43000 on my 2017) I must say it is great package for the money.

[@fundypaddlesurf]

Bang up review lads. No BS or fluff.

[@travelinben1966]

Brilliant review and bike.Thank you!👍👍

[@khai2717]

U sir, are a great motojournalist..

[@rozzag73]

Great review. I own a '16 model Tracer and would love to have cruise control on it. Can't wait till the GT comes down under to see if it's worth a trade up.

[@samiam8779]

Roy Goodeve do you know when it's coming to Oz?

[@stephenprizeman6669]

Brilliant review

[@42Redeyes]

Hi Ive just purchased a Tracer 900 Gt after test riding loads of bikes and I am very please with the ride and how the bike feels, it was important to me to make sure my wife and I were comfortable riding on the bike as we have hit the dreaded middle age bracket, and this bike seem to fit everything we were looking for, I purchase a 2018 model which was second hand and had 2500 miles on the clock for 8.5k and it had a top box fitted which we were looking for. We love the ride but on our first ride out to Bridlington Uk while turning right at a couple of roundabouts we heard something scrap the floor, after arriving at brid I noticed the main stand or center stand had touch down which alarm me ! I have been riding all my life and have been with my wife since 1989 and I had a GPZ600R and I never touch the main stand on that bike, but I have never touch anything other my boot or foot peg which in my eyes is fine,. Now I know you are going to say I had the rear suspension set too soft or my wife and I are fatties ! but know Ill stop you there No the suspension was set too hard because my wife commented on the ride out was hard and bumpy and NO we are not fatties !!! Im 13 stone and my wife is 10. Anyway I adjusted the preload 2 clicks back for the ride home which seemed to smooth out the ride home for my wife :-) BUT as I turned right across the main road the main stand hit down big time this time and even I saw the sparks !! When I got home I inspected the damage which looked like I have taken the corner of the main stand foot off (I later found that I only scraped off small amount) Now In my head whether I have the suspension set hard or soft I SHOULD NEVER GROUND THE MAIN STAND ON THE FLOOR ! This should be designed to took away neatly under the bike and the first thing that should hit the floor when cornering fast or slow with your pillion on (FAT or Thin) should be the foot peg ! The Tracer 900 GT even comes with extra long points under the foot peg ! I have inspected the main stand design and I can see where I can improve the ride height on this, where the rubber stop hits the bracket when the stand is in the folded up position I can see there is plenty more room for the stand to fold up even further than Yamaha have designed it. So I am going to change the height of the stop bracket on the main stand, Oh by the way I am a Fabricator/welder so this will be easy for me to do, just by reducing the small bracket I can make the bike safer to ride !! This is not just me who has hit the main stand because I have been on Tracer 900 Gt forums and there are other people who have had the same problem who cut the rubber stop down in half to help stop grounding the main stand ! Blue42

[@JeremyUSA]

Wow..I was sold on this bike until I read your review. The center stand is hitting the road before the pegs?? That's not going to work for me. How did they not experience that when they tested it at the track? Strange.

[@mrvwbug4423]

Very good review, supposedly it is supposed to reach the US market by July or August. The movement under big lean angles is normal for a bike with long travel suspension like this, the Versys is the same (I currently ride a Versys 650, so know exactly what he's talking about there). This will be a great upgrade from the Versys 650 I am riding currently.

[@stanleykania7184]

Thanks.. This is my next bike.. cheers

[@ricci777]

Great and informative review! I got 15K on my XSR900, been doing longer rides, this would seem to be my next bike.....

[@julyman9]

Awesome video! Was debating over this or the ninja 1000 but you get so much more accessories for the same price with the tracer 900 GT

[@barryroberts2474]

Good revue from someone who is believeable because of his track record! I will get a test ride as soon as it becomes available in Australia. Thanks for your report.

[@adrianfumi]

I don't know what it is, but I much prefer watching motorcycle reviews done in the UK rather than here in the US... Sounds more intelligent. Thank you for this great review. I purchased an R1 in 2017. Not exactly a bike for much recreational use... Thinking about selling a GSXR I have for one of these. I just love being on two wheels.Thank you once again...

[@Rayenair]

Nice review.

[@MrNevo7]

You are in UK and I did not hear the comparison to Triumph Tiger Sport 1050. I think, this is 100-110% competition. I am glad to a test ride.

[@tooyoungtobeold8756]

Love the giraffe video and the bike of course.

[@ncds2613]

I love how you compared that the bike was running like a giraffe lol😂

[@laexh]

Excelent review

[@alexandrevergne7941]

Love your reviews, talking insted of giving numbers . Always a cup of tea in your hand tho :D

[@andrewfrost8422]

Great review, I loved your analogy of the difference between a rabbits top speed and a giraffe. 🤪

[@travelinben1966]

Great video.I agree on all points.A shaft drive would make it perfect.JMO.

[@topgun8683]

I had a 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000LT for touring, but didn't do much, great bike like this one, but I traded it for a Kawasaki Z1000, now that's more my game ! Nice that Yamaha is stepping up their game against the European bikes, well done !

[@reerbaadia1896]

I like reviews where a presenter doesn't sit on the fence. Well done.

[@reerbaadia1896]

Nanderlizer Nanderlizer Ok then. Tell me which other bike is the most cost effective other than this bike in its category *Neanderthal.*

[@_TicTacJoe]

ReerBaadia I love this comment because whilst I agree - he literally spent the entire review sitting on a literal fence 😂😂

[@PipeOPhile]

This actually seems really good

[@samgab]

I agree with what you said about having a quickshifter and electronic suspension on a touring or sports-tourer bike. I recently did a big tour of the south island of New Zealand on a 2017 R1200GS, and the ESA electronic suspension was amazing. Really comfortable all the time, and I could dial in settings as needed depending on the road surface and condition. Magic carpet ride. And it had the Quickshift Assist Pro, with blipper, and it made touring so much better. I'd only have to use the clutch about twice per riding shift some times. Once when I started, and once when I finished. Fantastic. Does the quickshifter on the Tracer 900 GT also have a blipper, for up and down shifts?

[@applecorp]

Gorgeous bike, test rode one last week and found it to be almost perfect, just needs a slightly higher screen for myself. Now trying to justify a purchase.

[@42robwalker]

applecorp get the MRA screen with spoiler. It’s the only after market screen I’ve tried that works fully.

[@travelinben1966]

If it were shaft drive, it would be just about perfect.Great review, thank you.👍👍

[@Carlos-qk2vi]

Ten minutes of zero hyperbole or gushing BS - it gives everything you want in a review.

[@rzu7120]

UprightAllTheWay Did he mention fuel economy, warranty, or maintenance intervals?

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

It's a first ride from the launch, anyone giving that info would have only read it from the spec sheet.

[@Carlos-qk2vi]

R Zu I see your point - but my own personal view was that the review easily gave enough information to either a) pique your interest in the bike and book a test ride or b) figure out it wasn't the machine for you ..... if you're in the A category, warranty and maintenance etc are things which you would check out with the dealer. And lets be fair ....... I LOVE my machine, fuel economy, warranty and maintenance costs didn't really come into it, I would suggest most riders are in the same camp?

[@rzu7120]

UprightAllTheWay I think it was an excellent review; not 100% of info, but enough to keep me seriously interested in the bike. UK price translates to about $13,500 US. Not bad for all the bike offers!

[@mikeskidmore6754]

Gosh can you imagine going to the manufacturers web site and reading the specs on a model that interests you ??

[@SigmaSheepdog]

I have test ridden this bike quite a few times and I find it to be exactly what I want in a sport touring bike. Its not absolutely perfect but pretty damn close...in my world. I love that matte blue and I really hope that Yamaha introduces that color here in the USA for the 2020 model year. For some stupid reason Yamaha introduced this bike in the USA in only one color.

[@ADRIAN-fb9xj]

Good review.....That looks like the ideal replacement for the TDM 900 that I loved, except I killed it after a front tyre deflated and we understeered and went head on into a Honda Jazz on a left hander. I keep looking at the bike reviews knowing that I'll never ride one again. Too much metal and too much pain.....I miss my Bike.

[@adriantompson]

that engine and quick shifter that all you need,

[@m.rraghav817]

Best looking sport touring motorcycle ever.

[@bikeridernz6169]

Easily the best motorcycle reviewer on KZbin. Thank you so much for your excellent ability and I am totally impressed. Please keep it up.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks, it's all in the edit you know...

[@johnhogan8177]

Bike World hang on a minute!

[@Parabloop3r]

looool that giraffe analogy was hilarious

[@Renzsu]

This was something I was looking to buy, but my budget didn't allow for it. I ended up with a 2011 Multistrada 1200S. At under 19.000 km, it was a pretty good choice I think.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

The best reviewer on the net. Good bike, too.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers!

[@joem5639]

Like the looks of the bike but hate having a single headlight only.

[@rhe4697]

Yamaha is the best

[@mrlarkin6416]

Almost €14k here in Ireland 🇮🇪 but if I could afford it I'd have it, great review.

[@jal1797]

I did a test ride and it is more refined than the previous but in violent acceleration the wobble do exist!Maybe gt model which has better suspension with full settings may be better on that.Otherwise I would make a deal because of its very good vfm rate.

[@sscarcello]

Great review!! I have the 2015 model and love it. All of the new stuff is worth the extra cash. Doesn't a Slipper Clutch come as standard on the GT900 as well? Anyway, I put a Two Bros. Full exhaust (with Db Killer) and a Dynojet Power Commander V. Worth the money guys!

[@wildone2163]

excellent review! yamaha finally started do something actually worthy to buy...

[@OldManTony]

It is possibly the bike I would have bought if it was available when I bought my Tiger 800!

[@wickedcoolname399]

I realize that I'm replying to an old comment but I am curious if you're happy with your Tiger. I'm in the market right now and I've settled on the XCA. Which model Tiger did you get?

[@Accurize2]

If you wanted electronic suspension to make it the “perfect touring bike”, then I think the renamed (again) 2021 Tracer 9 GT is your answer!

[@Tooltrocity]

Did they do anything about the handlebar vibrations at highway speeds? That was the only thing keeping me from buying one of the previous models a few years back.

[@pmdinaz]

Thanks for the vid, why didn't you mention the new Tiger 800 XR line for a comparison? You remembered when the Tracer was outgunned by the Italian, was there fear that England would do the same?

[@ebikepk]

Yamaha is awsome

[@danelovell]

I've got an FJR 1300 and I think it is the best sport touring bike, period.

[@boo-boo511]

Dane Lovell Dated and overweight. I have ridden several. Apowerful beast and has a shaft, granted. Shame they couldn't get a shaft on this.

[@Ritalie]

This is just so amazing. One of the best new motorcycles ever created. The torque of the triple, combined with the high revving smoothness, and the beautiful, 6 cylinder-like sound, is something incredible beyond words. It's almost like a CBX1100 sound, without all that mass of a 6 cylinder. However, I am assuming the 6th gear is way too low, and it's just awful at 75 mph, where the engine could be turning 2600 rpms, it's probably turning 5600 rpms, for no apparent reason. I am waiting for the proper gear ratios, before I spend my money on a show room floor bike. Until then, I'll buy an older bike. In 1931, the Henderson inline 4 cylinder motorcycle had 53 horsepower, and an overdrive. We still can't figure out overdrive in 2021?

[@DonnyTrent5533]

How is it versus the Crossrunner or the Interceptor?

[@Ramdas_Devadiga]

How does this compare to the Honda Africa Twin in your opinion?

[@mickleblade]

yesterday I went into a yam dealer with the missus to look at the std tracer 9. Just the initial 'suggestion' to her that I was interested in changing my old cbf1000. Hmm, so far so good, she didn't say no! What do you think of the lights at night? I've seen some suspect reviews

[@MartijnKrijgsman]

Really enjoyed the review. Just wish I had the money to buy it ;)

[@fencing8511]

How much is it in your country

[@MartijnKrijgsman]

@@fencing8511 14.299 euro's :(

[@fencing8511]

Martijn Krijgsman thank you

[@alrightdave6135]

Tempted to trade in my 2015 tracer 900..

[@grakkerful]

Is crossing up a technique for taking corners in the rain? I'm honestly asking, we get maybe 10 days of rain a year where I am and I haven't really thought about it before.

[@67daltonknox]

I had a 2015 Multistrada 1200S. The most surprising thing was the bad suspension... a Ducati that does tank slappies on any bump? The throttle maps were ridiculous... any old lady in a Prius could leave me standing at the lights. Throw in a gear sensor that couldn't tell 1st from neutral or second, so every now and then when you were expecting to pull away with no power, instead once in a while you would be doing a wheelie. A scratched fork leg cost $2500 to replace. Servicing was 5 times what a Yamaha would cost (can't imagine what the 15,000 desmo adjust comes to). I offed it and will get a 900 GT.

[@mikeskidmore6754]

I really like the Triumph Tiger Sport 1050 But they don't sell it in the USA so this Yamaha is the best 2nd choice Is it more reliable does it offer better value ? The 1050 has more steam and has a very good MPG rating ..

[@BrunoCosta-cd8lp]

What kind of helmets are these at 43sec of the video? Thanks

[@AtakanDokuzlar]

Great video and great review thanks. But only one thing bothered me through out the video was why you guys enter the turns that narrow? I know that it's not a racing bike so you do not aim to drag your knee yet while exiting the turns that narrow rider pushes against the bike to make it stay on its line this bike might handle this counter push but i really felt bothered when ever i see the turns. Don't get me wrong just making constructive criticism, correct me if I'm wrong

[@dazadorph45]

The carrying weight limit for pillion, Panniers, top box. Only will currently let you choose, one of the tree so you really can't have a two up holiday, it's primarily a solo sport Tourer bike. yamaha need to have say a 1300cc version with a larger carrying capacity. If they did I would sell my current tracer 900 for that model.

[@cJOSHvlogs]

How about comparing it with kawasaki versys 1000

[@JpOcDenver]

With larger panniers and a top box option, I could definitely see myself trading my Multistrada 1200s GT for one of these.

[@EEEBA1]

Why would you trade your Multistrada, I am thinking about getting one. Currently I have the SuperDuke. Thank you

[@JpOcDenver]

Right now, i wouldn't. I don't think the Tracer GT will offer the luggage capacity and configuration I need. I ride with a passenger and have to carry both of our stuff on one bike. I'm a sporty rider so the Multi is the ticket for me when it comes to touring and comfort and performance. My multi has had a couple minor issues but it NEVER failed to start. (unless i let the battery run down but that's on me. solved with a lithium battery). One heated grip quit. and the fuel level sending unit has gone out twice. (they ALL are doing it and apparently its from the ethanol in our fuel.) I had a couple error codes with the DSS (ducati suspension system i think..?). Those got fixed with some new wiring. All under warranty. Right now if i were to trade, i'd get the Multi 1260 in volcano grey. 100%. But if the Tracer GT had an option for say, large capacity Givi side cases and top box, i could see myself considering the trade in order to save money and have an ultra-reliable bike. I could trade my out-of-warranty multi plus $3-4k for a brand new tracer gt? I have a tuono so that satisfies my need for outright performance. It would PURELY a money-saving move. NOT because i think it's superior to the Multi. But like i said, i don't see it happening. The Multistrada is amazing.

[@EEEBA1]

I see. Thank you for your quick response. I will be looking at one soon. Are there any years/models I should stay away from?

[@JpOcDenver]

Not that i'm aware of. Skyhook electronic suspension came around in 2013. It's amazing and really makes a difference in the different modes as well as adjusting to current road conditions in real time as you ride. 2015 was another update where they added tft display, cruise control, and the engine gained variable valve timing. Supposedly they added power but all the dynos showed they were making the same power as before. VVT just smoothed things out a bit. And now the newest one which is the 1260. More power and all around more stable bike from what i understand.

[@lornescott-wilson6144]

It just needs shaft drive, borrow the gearbox and swingarm from its bigger brothers the FJR or Tenere

[@billhamilton7524]

just bought this bike today ,,,traded in my fz07,,i have to say the wind buffeting compared to the fz07 is terrible ,,thats right the naked is much better,, raise the windshield up on the tracer and it blast your helment,,lowered is a bit better but not much,,I will be looking for a new screen or cutting about 6 inched off the stock one ,,

[@yayoi1]

How's the visibility of the TFT dash compared to the standard Tracer dash?

[@sighheinrich]

I've seen it at my dealer, inside with big windows behind. I could see everything in the display, it has great color and brightness.Made sure to get a lot of light from the windows into the dash, and I could easily see what happened

[@davidbesant]

Come on Yamaha. Let's have both lights on dip. Or stack them vertically. So bored with the 'mate one of your lights is out' thing. And you'll get the yin and yan right.

[@samgab]

Yeah, this has never made any sense to me. On a motorbike, I want as much light as possible. By day, to be seen; and by night, to SEE! If you're going to put two headlights on the front of a motorbike, make them BOTH work on both low and high beam, thanks!!! Also, symmetry is deemed attractive and seems like good design.

[@CrazyIQ]

Get an FJR then, problem sorted :)

[@rikpward]

... or get mates that understand it's a Yamaha thing.

[@icedfirion]

This is a safety thing. It's not for you, it's for other cars. You gauge the distance of other vehicles at night based on the headlights. A motorcycle having the lights so much closer together makes it seem much further away than it is and reduces reaction time when they realize it's not a car. Doesn't really make up for the look, but there's at least some reason behind it. Edit: Point being the single light is indicative it's a motorcycle at night so other drivers gauge distance better and don't hit you.

[@reerbaadia1896]

@@icedfirion 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👍🏾

[@zane5598]

At £10,600 that's the same as a Z1000sx tourer, which way would your money go?

[@ResQ166]

new gt or used xr?

[@shahrimanjohann9283]

1200GS or this?

[@gwattsjr]

Is it true that Yamaha does not recommend having a top case installed along with the panniers (thought I heard this somewhere)? If so, why?

[@marcelloconti37]

Glenn Watts Probably a stability issue. Light front end + aerodynamic problems

[@boo-boo511]

Strength of rear subframe? It doesn't have a massive payload, especially for two up touring.