Yamaha has revealed an overhauled version of its MT-09 Tracer, or Tracer 9 as its now known, boasting significant tech and performance enhancements over the outgoing model.
The Yamaha Tracer 9 will launch locally in April, available exclusively in touring-ready GT guise, while pricing has yet to be confirmed.
For reference, the current Tracer 9 GT is priced from $20,499 rideaway. See our review of that here.
At the heart of the new Tracer 9 is an increased-capacity triple-cylinder engine, now measuring 890cc, with torque boosted by seven per cent to 93Nm, and peak power now at 87kW (+3kW).
That’s backed up by a new Deltabox chassis that positions the engine at a more upright angle, among other dimensional changes, while redesigned KYB adaptive suspension makes adjustments in real time to improve handling and comfort.
While it looks like the new swingarm is borrowed from the 2021 MT-09 naked bike, Yamaha has confirmed that the Tracer 9 GT uses a unique swingarm that extends its wheelbase to 1500mm.
Thanks to the new chassis and a redesigned luggage system that allows three hard cases, the 2021 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT can handle a payload of 193 kilograms, a seven per cent improvement compared to its predecessor.
Like its sports-focussed siblings, the Tracer 9 gains a six-axis rider-assistance suite with advanced traction control, slide control, wheelie control, brake control, cruise control and four riding modes to suit varying road conditions.
An up/down quickshifter is standard with a newly developed gearbox that sees higher gear ratios and a new clutch for a lighter lever pull and “gentler behaviour during downshifts”.
Also new is a revised fueling system for improved economy, allowing the 18-litre tank to stretch over 350 kilometres of riding range.
Other notable updates over the outgoing model include lighter wheels, a larger windscreen, lower seat height, revised intake and exhaust systems, a retuned ride-by-wire throttle, new front brake master cylinder for more linear control and model-specific engine mounts for increased stability with a full load.
Tech features extend to full LED lighting with cornering lights, twin 3.5-inch TFT instruments and grip warmers as standard.
The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT 2021 comes with Bridgestone Battlax T32 sport touring tyres.
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.
I’d really like one. It’s annoying though that my Vstrom gives me 480kms form a tank and this wold get only 350kms.