2024 YAMAHA MT-09 Detailed Review and Features | MT-09 Specs

Hello, YAMAHA has announced the latest evolution of its popular hyper-naked middleweight sport motorcycle: the 2024 Yamaha MT-09 and MT-09 SP. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the motorcycle, initially released as the MT-09 in 2013 but known as the FZ-09 in the United States.

The new 2024 MT-09 retains the liquid-cooled 890cc DOHC inline-Triple engine of its predecessor, along with the lightweight and manageable cast aluminum frame and the 6-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) for Incline-Sensitive Rider Aids. However, it introduces a range of new features to enhance the MT experience. The MT-09 SP takes it a step further.

The electronic suite on the motorcycles is expanded with the addition of a new Back Slip Regulator (BSR) that uses engine RPM and wheel speed data to reduce rear-wheel lockup under engine braking. This feature is particularly useful in low traction conditions when activating the slip clutch is challenging. The system can be toggled on and off in the Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) settings menu.

Both motorcycles are equipped with Yamaha's new third-generation Quick Shift System (QSS), allowing for clutchless upshifts and downshifts. QSS has two settings: Setting 1 enables upshifts during acceleration and downshifts during deceleration, while Setting 2 allows downshifts during acceleration and upshifts during deceleration, expanding functionality across a wider range of situations.

In terms of braking, the MT-09 is reinforced with a new Brembo radial master cylinder that moves in parallel with the brake lever travel. When the rider pulls the lever, hydraulic pressure is sent linearly, enhancing control. The new master cylinder is paired with dual 298mm front discs and a single 245mm rear disc. The MT-09 SP takes it to the next level with Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers, providing lighter weight, increased stiffness, and better control. Additionally, larger-diameter pistons generate more braking force.

Suspension for 2024 has been revised. The MT-09 is equipped with a preload-adjustable, compression, and rebound-adjustable 41mm inverted fork and an adjustable KYB rear shock. High spring rates and updated damping characteristics are tuned to match the new standard Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires.

The MT-09 SP features a DLC-coated 41mm KYB fork that offers full adjustability for preload, compression, rebound, and high/low-speed compression. At the rear, the Öhlins shock is fully adjustable and comes with remote preload adjustment for quick and easy changes.

For 2024, MT-09 riders can further customize their riding experiences through Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) settings, allowing the selection of engine power characteristics and electronic intervention levels. Integrated three riding modes are programmed with factory settings for different situations: Sport, Street, and Rain. Moreover, riders can create two custom programs tailored to their preferences. YRC settings can be customized directly through the TFT display menu or via the Y-Connect app on a smartphone.

In addition to the factory and custom settings found in the standard MT-09, the SP features four special Track modes that enable more personalized track settings, such as choosing between two Motor Brake Management settings and disabling rear ABS.

Innovative new turn signal functions further enhance the riding experience. A gentle click of the indicator switch causes the signals to flash three times for lane changes, while a full click provides continuous flashing. Turn signals automatically cancel after 15 seconds of motorcycle movement or when traveling over 500 feet.

Already known for its attractive riding experience, the ergonomics of the new 2024 MT-09 have been further enhanced. This includes a lower handlebar position with two customizable settings. Redesigned footrests are slightly rear-set and adjustable. The new fuel tank design, 30mm lower than the previous model, results in a more focused riding position, with a 4-degree increase in handlebar steering angle on both sides, providing a tighter turning radius and improved low-speed maneuverability. Additionally, the new two-piece seat design is thinner, offering more freedom of movement and easier access to the ground.

Visually, the new headlight includes a bi-function LED projector with a compact diameter lens module, smaller and sleeker than the previous model but still providing a wide, powerful beam. Transparent twin LED position lights complete the MT-09's more compact, sharp, and aggressive front end. This theme continues at the rear with a new LED tail lamp, a slimmer appearance, and LED turn signals in a new color scheme. Along with the lower positioning of the fuel tank, it maintains a distinctly modern street aesthetic with sharper and defined lines.

And, of course, we cannot forget the distinctive hum of the MT-09's crossplane Triple engine. The 2024 MT-09 features a new two-air intake design with acoustic amplifier grilles placed on top of the fuel tank to accentuate high-frequency intake sounds. This design transmits the intake noise of the CP3 directly to the rider, enhancing the feeling of torque and acceleration.

Both motorcycles are equipped with a new 5-inch full-color TFT display, replacing the previous 3.5-inch screen, offering four different themes tailored to specific riding conditions or individual preferences. The display is navigated through entirely new integrated handlebar switches, with Yamaha stating that the buttons' shape and feel have been significantly improved to provide intuitive operation. For the SP, the on-track riding experience is further enhanced with a special SP theme featuring a prominent lap timer.

In 2024, connectivity comes standard on the MT-09 with an integrated Communication Control Unit (CCU), allowing riders to connect their smartphones to the motorcycle using Yamaha's free Y-Connect app. In addition to receiving call and message notifications on the TFT screen, riders can add a new dimension to their ride by making calls or listening to music with premium Bluetooth headphones (not included). Full turn-by-turn navigation is also available through the Garmin StreetCross app. Finally, riders can personalize their TFT displays by sending pictures from their smartphones via the Y-Connect app.

The 2024 MT-09 SP also includes Yamaha's Smart Key System. The smart key can start the motorcycle by turning a redesigned key when it is within a certain range, such as in your pocket. The new system also includes a locking and unlocking function for the fuel tank cap, providing additional convenience.

The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 will be available for sale in March 2024 with an MSRP of $10,599, offered in Team Yamaha Blue, Midnight Cyan, or Matte Raven Black color options.

The 2024 MT-09 SP, featuring the distinctive glossy and transparent-coated aluminum swingarm, comes in the R1M-inspired Liquid Metal/Raven color scheme and will reach dealerships in late spring 2024 with an MSRP of $12,299.

2024 YAMAHA MT-09 Specifications