Yamaha has treated its MT-10 litre-class naked bike to a significant update for 2022, debuting a styling facelift, a boost to performance and a variety of technology enhancements.
While Australian-specific details have yet to be confirmed, Yamaha’s local wing told INFO MOTO that it will release pricing and availability information for the new MT-10, as well as the recently revealed XSR900 modern retro, in the next few weeks.
For reference, the current Yamaha MT-10 is priced from $21,949 rideaway, although a minor price increase for the 2022 model is likely on the cards given the significant updates it adopts.
Motivating the new Yamaha MT-10 is a familiar 998cc inline four-cylinder engine that now generates 122kW and 112Nm, up 4kW and 1Nm compared to its predecessor.
The updated powerplant has undergone a number of upgrades as it moves over to Euro5 emissions standards, which are said to give it stronger mid-range torque and improved fuel economy.
These changes include new lightweight aluminium forged pistons and off-set con rods, as well as heavily updated intake and exhaust systems that create a ‘deep and distinctive’ sound.
Styling has been tweaked with a new twin LED headlight signature and enlarged air ducts on both sides of the fuel tank cover. Yamaha has also adjusted the MT-10’s ergonomics to improve overall comfort.
For 2022, the MT-10 gains a Brembo radial brake master cylinder for improved feel, while the carry-over fully adjustable KYB suspension has undergone minor tweaks.
Critically, the new model features a six-axis electronics suite to provide lean-angle sensitive traction control and cornering ABS. These features can be toggled via a new 4.2-inch TFT dash.
The 2022 Yamaha MT-10 also gets an up/down quickshifter and variable speed limiter fitted as standard.
Overseas, the new naked bike will be offered in three colours Cyan Storm, Icon Blue and Tech Black, although local specifications have yet to be locked in.
Yamaha may release a higher-spec MT-10 SP variant that features beefier Ohlins suspension and unique styling details.
The YZF-R1-based MT-10 sits atop the brand’s naked bike line-up, rivalling models like the BMW S 1000 R and Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS.
Yamaha’s naked bike stable also includes the smaller-capacity MT-09 ($15,249), MT-07 ($12,399) and MT-03 ($7599).
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
