Motorcycle redefined: Lighter, more advanced, stunning design
The Yamaha MT-07 became a hit the moment it launched. After all, a mid-range naked bike is one of the most popular types of motorcycles. Now, the Japanese manufacturer has prepared a new edition of their bestseller, and a lot has changed.
You can recognize the new Yamaha MT-07 at first glance. It's still edgy and distinctive, but the new design clearly stands apart from the previous model. The small, aggressively styled front lights are integrated into an element resembling a mask, and the very modernly drawn fuel tank will surely attract attention on the street. While styling was already a strong point of the Yamaha MT-07, it remains so despite significant changes.
Let’s focus on the technical aspects. Although the MT-07 has many new features that could have increased its weight by 4.5 kilograms, the motorcycle actually weighs 183 kilograms, which is 1 kilogram lighter than before. Engineers have strived to reduce weight wherever possible. Thus, the bodywork components, the wheels (considered unsprung mass), and some structural elements made of aluminum weigh less.
The suspension is also new, and along with the revised construction of the motorcycle, it should translate into better handling. The seating position has changed too - the handlebars are wider and positioned lower and further back, while the footpegs are now about 1 centimetre lower. Despite these changes, the fuel tank retains its 14-litre capacity. Meanwhile, an improved clutch means gear changes will be smoother, requiring 22% less force to press its lever.
Today's motorcycles, of course, cannot do without a fair amount of electronics. In the case of the Yamaha MT-07, you get a 12.7-centimetre display with extensive options and the ability to connect with a smartphone via the MyRide app. However, the more important new features are different. Most importantly, this popular Yamaha naked bike has an electronically controlled throttle (ride-by-wire) and ride modes - Sport, Street, and Custom. The latter allows you to set the engine map and traction control according to your preferences.
The power continues to be provided by the 690 cc CP2 engine. As Yamaha boasts, they have taken great care in the acoustic aspects. Both the engine's operation, its components, and the bodywork have been designed to enhance the motorcycle's sound.
An important new feature is the optional Y-AMT automated transmission (Yamaha Automated Manual Transmission), which collaborates with the CP2 engine for the first time. Similar to other manufacturers, Yamaha is focusing on automation, but in practice, Y-AMT is closer to a DCT gearbox than Honda's new E-Clutch (in terms of operation, not technology). Yamaha's device can be operated manually, shifting gears with a hand switch, or alternatively, there is a fully automatic mode.
