YAMAHA TRACER 700 (2020 - on) Review

Highlights

  • A fantastic all-round sports tourer
  • Handling improved over previous model
  • Attainable thanks to reasonable finance deals

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Annual servicing cost: £200
Power: 72 bhp
Seat height: Medium (32.9 in / 835 mm)
Weight: Medium (432 lbs / 196 kg)

Prices

New £7,799
Used £4,000 - £7,800

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
4 out of 5 (4/5)

For the money the previous Yamaha Tracer 700 middleweight sports tourer was always an impressive piece of kit, but now it’s even better – not by a huge amount, but it’s crisper on the throttle, more composed in the corners, comfier and still great value for money.

As well as a number of styling tweaks, the bike features the firm’s first Euro5 version of the CP2 parallel-twin engine also used in the MT-07 and Ténéré 700.

As with the recently updated MT-125 and MT-03 models, the front end of the bike has been restyled with aggressive twin headlights that are so sporty, they give an R1-esque feel.

Cornering right on the Yamaha Tracer 700

Sleek wind-deflecting handguards incorporate the front indicators, meaning the bodywork is smooth and uninterrupted and overall the Tracer looks seriously cool and modern. And Yamaha say that this new fairing and a redesigned adjustable screen offer better weather protection than before. It can be raised by 60mm.

The handlebar is now 34mm wider with an ‘accessory bridge’ built in for clamping your satnav to and the seat has been modified to make it more comfortable over distance for both the rider and a passenger.

Despite becoming Euro5-compliant, the 700 retains its spritely 196kg claimed kerb weight so it should be just as nimble as its predecessor especially with the addition of new adjustable front forks.

There’s no TFT dash in sight, Yamaha opting to swap the old LCD unit for a new negative-display version.

Yamaha Tracer 700 review: the MCN verdict

It still lacks the laugh-out-loud thrills of its terrier-like naked Yamaha MT-07 sibling, despite its shorter gearing and there’s still a fair amount of wind buffeting at speed.

Larger riders and serious two-up travellers will be better off with something physically bigger, but as capable, lightweight, characterful, well made, great value sports tourers go, it’s a classy piece of kit. Read on for a more detailed evaluation of this important bike...

This bike replaced the 2016 Yamaha Tracer 700. It was renamed the Yamaha Tracer 7 in 2021.

Once you've read this review and our owners' reviews, you may want to join an online group to meet likeminded people. The Yamaha Tracer UK Owners' Group would be a great place to start.

Watch 2020 Yamaha Tracer 700 video review

In this video Neevesy gives you an in-depth rundown of the new bike, and of course you can hear what it sounds like too...

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Yamaha have made new Tracer 700's riding position more comfortable with a new 10mm thicker seat with more padding, making it kinder on your knees and bum. Arms are more relaxed, too, thanks to 34mm wider bars.

Handling is improved thanks to new cartridge-type forks with rebound damping and preload adjustment for the first time. The rear shock also has rebound adjusters to play with, as well as preload.

Suspension is built down to a price, so it will never be the last word in refinement and the general set-up is soft, but the Yamaha is crisper in the corners than before, friendly, forgiving and never gets out of shape. Brakes are strong and new Michelin Pilot Road 4 sports touring rubber plies you with all-weather cornering confidence. A lighter battery, plastics and LEDs offsets the extra Euro5 pounds.

There’s also a new screen and simpler adjuster mechanism (65mm up/down range), but even fully extended it amplifies wind noise and doesn’t offer much in the way of weather protection.

Riding the Yamaha Tracer 700 with a pillion

For the smaller among us this may not be such a problem, but for the rest it’ll be an issue. A taller screen is available as an official Yamaha accessory and sleeker bodywork helps get your knees tucked in more (there are new handguards, too) but, generally, larger riders will feel and look big on the Tracer.

What's more, pillions now get an easier time, too. New grab handles are 'damped' and reshaped for their pleasure and with its extra suspension adjustment, your passenger will be bounced around less, too.

Despite this, the Tracer 700 is physically compact, as it would be, based on the little MT-07 roadster. So, if you’re a pair of small sporty tourers you won’t have a problem, but for medium-sized riders and above things are going to be cosy. For serious two-up work, something roomier, with a bit more power, suspension support and ground clearance to play with will make easier work of big miles.

Engine

Next up: Reliability
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Despite its cleaner, quieter new Euro5 exhaust, the power remains at 72bhp, but it’s now delivered 250rpm lower in the revs. Torque is pegged at 50lb-ft. This means the motor itself doesn’t feel too different from the old Tracer’s, but with its shorter new gearing (two teeth up on the rear sprocket) acceleration is given a small boost, but happily not at the expense of a buzzy top end.

The Yamaha Tracer 700 features a 689cc parallel-twin engine

At 70mph the Yamaha cruises at a relatively relaxed 5500rpm. The rumbling parallel twin has character and decent punch for its size but lacks the kind of playfulness oozing from the Tracer’s lighter, stubbier MT-07 brother.

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
5 out of 5 (5/5)

It might be budget, but the Yamaha is nicely put together and features extra new detail touches like a thermoformed and machined screen and anodised fork adjusters.

Our Yamaha Tracer 700 owners' reviews show very positive scores, with the only negatives high servicing costs and some cheaper parts.

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Quality sports tourers don’t get much cheaper to buy, run and insure than the Tracer 700. Yamaha’s PCP deals are particularly attractive, making it even more attainable.

A static view of the Yamaha Tracer 700

Group test: Yamaha Tracer 700 vs BMW F900XR vs Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE

First published in MCN by Jon Urry on 29 July 2020

Yamaha Tracer 700 vs BMW F900XR vs Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE

Jon had the chance to pit the Tracer 700 against its main rivals in the form of the BMW F900XR TE and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE to find out which one's top of the pops.

His verdict: "These three bikes highlight the wide price spectrum when it comes to adventure-sport bikes from the budget Tracer to the premium Versys, so in some ways it should be no surprise that the bike that sits in the middle offers the best of both camps. Offering much of the lightweight feel of the Tracer and almost matching the Versys in terms of tech, the XR makes for a great do-it-all.

"It might not have quite the same funfactor as the Yamaha and unlike the Kawasaki the BMW isn’t ideal for two-up trips away or motorway hauls, but for solo adventures away it’s a great option. Yet what makes the XR really stand out is the fact its spec can be altered to suit your wallet or requirements and riding preferences, which you can’t do on the other two to the same degree. It is this versatility that, despite its smaller capacity, makes the BMW feel a thoroughly grown-up option that ticks all the boxes without becoming overladen as a result."

Equipment

3 out of 5 (3/5)

The Tracer 700 is free from rider aids, quickshifters and modes, which may be music to the ears of some, but still has ABS. You also get adjustable suspension, new white on black clocks, an extra (left) switchgear button to control dash functions, revised shaped handguards, new LED projector headlights, indicators and tail light.

Accessories are available by the bucket load, including mix and match Sports, Travel, Weekend and Urban packs. And the techy among us with enjoy the My Ride app and Yamaha’s accessories configurator.

Specs

Engine size 689cc
Engine type 8v parallel twin
Frame type Tubular steel diamond
Fuel capacity 17 litres
Seat height 835mm
Bike weight 196kg
Front suspension 41mm forks, adjustable for preload and rebound damping
Rear suspension Single shock, adjustable for preload and rebound damping
Front brake 2 x 282mm discs with four-piston calipers. ABS
Rear brake 245mm rear disc with single piston caliper. ABS
Front tyre size 120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size 180/55 x 17

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 54 mpg
Annual road tax £117
Annual service cost £200
New price £7,799
Used price £4,000 - £7,800
Insurance group -
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two years

Top speed & performance

Max power 72 bhp
Max torque 50 ft-lb
Top speed 125 mph
1/4 mile acceleration -
Tank range 201 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

  • 2016 – Tracer 700 introduced. Sports touring version of the venerable MT-07, featuring the same frame and engine, but with new bodywork, a three litre bigger fuel tank (up to 17 litres), more relaxed ergonomics and a 60mm longer wheelbase.
  • 2020 – Euro5-friendly – power and weight unchanged. Engine tweaks, new styling, screen, handguards, seat, clocks, wider handlebars, uprated forks, shock and Michelin Pilot Road 4 tyres.
  • 2021 - Renamed Tracer 7.

Other versions

There are currently no other versions of the Yamaha Tracer 700, but expect a GT version to be along soon. Despite this, there are multiple other bikes that share the same 689cc parrallel-twin engine platform. They are listed below:

  • Yamaha MT-07: Yamaha's answer to the Kawasaki Z650 and Suzuki's SV650 offers a well-priced, competent package, capable of tackling daily use and monster wheelies whenever the mood takes you.
  • Yamaha Tenere 700: Yamaha's middleweight adventure bike breaks the mould by coming in at just 205kg wet, producing 74bhp and offering no electronic aids apart from ABS, which can be switched off for off-road use.
  • Yamaha XSR700: Essentially the same bike as the MT-07, the XSR offers minimalist retro styling combined with a punchy modern powerplant. Also available as a special XTribute version.

Owners' reviews for the YAMAHA TRACER 700 (2020 - on)

12 owners have reviewed their YAMAHA TRACER 700 (2020 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your YAMAHA TRACER 700 (2020 - on)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Engine: 4.9 out of 5 (4.9/5)
Reliability & build quality: 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Value vs rivals: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Equipment: 4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Annual servicing cost: £200
5 out of 5 2020 yamsha tracer 700
22 July 2024 by Kevin smith

Year: 2020

Annual servicing cost: £265

Relaxed ride. Punchy parallel twin engine. Lightweight and forgiving. Highly recommend..

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Front brakes are great. Plenty of bite. Back brake good but need to press really hard when braking from fast speed.

Engine 5 out of 5

Great engine plenty of grunt and love the engine braking ..

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

No corrosion

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Nothing needed so far.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Great oem fit tyres. Hand guards and heated grips essential. As is comfort seat and taller screen. Overall great bike for short back road blasts or long distance trips. Lightweight , comfy and forgiving...

Buying experience: Dealer. £5995. Paid £5795. No trade in

3 out of 5 Fun street bike, poor tourer
10 June 2024 by Ryles

Year: 2023

Annual servicing cost: £180

A great street bike or urban commuter, perhaps even a decent tourer for short weekend trips, just don’t take it on any further trips or you’ll soon realise its limitations I put the OEM rear rack and side panniers on mine only to be told by Yamaha you can’t use them both at once, but it seems plenty do. It’s a very light weight bike so easy to move around and paddle but the lack of weight at the front end means you really have to force it to tip in on the tight corners.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Suffered with vibrations issues with my bike, had it back into Yamaha twice only to be told within normal parameters but after 4-6 hours in the saddle my hands we’re tingling, and I found the bike very fatiguing over long days in the saddle. The riding position I also found a little cramped and my knees would feel on fire after 6 hours. On the plus side the seat is very good and I never suffered from numb bum. I found the suspension good and no need to mess with it, just very neutral. .

Engine 4 out of 5

The engine is the star of the show, its lively and engaging, it likes you to rev it hard and its most happy being in the higher end of the rev range, egging you on but if you’re looking for something relaxing then I’d look elsewhere.

Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

Some electrical gremlins starting to appear after just 12 months, hazards randomly flashing and battery struggling to warm start. Paint on the wheels is very thin as I have a collection of small chips and rim damage from changing tyres. Has held up to water quite well though, very little rust on it considering I'm not shy from riding it in the rain. The switchgear feels cheap and it poorly laid out.

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

Comes with Road Pilot 4 which which are now discontinued and Road Pilot 6 are close to £230 per tyre so expect an expensive quote when its time to change the rear.

Equipment 2 out of 5

Really basic, just ABS and an LCD Screen. Makes Yamaha and the bike look cheap. The USB port was a £20 extra on my bike that cost me £45 to have it fitted. Needs traction control at least and to include the basic USB ports. Paid extra for the OEM heated grips but they are naff so just stick a set of Oxfords on them yourself.

Buying experience: poor experience through my local Yam dealer Wigan Yamaha, ended up buying the bike from ARNOLDS in Burton on Trent. Continued to receive poor service from Wigan Yamaha during serving so another reason I was happy to let the bike go and will probably not bother with another Yamaha

3 out of 5 Buyer be warned
10 June 2024 by Geordie biker

Version: New 2020 version

Year: 2020

Annual servicing cost: £250

Bike is great, light handling, great amount of torque from the CP2 engine, fuel economy really good just let down by poor quality headlight that has failed out of warranty and a fuel gauge you can't rely on.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 2 out of 5

Issues with fuel gauge showing next to no fuel but when you fill up it only takes 8ltrs to fill up. So why show your empty when it has 11ltrs still in the tank??? Also headlight failure out of warranty. Yamaha don't want to know, and the bike has only covered 2k miles per year.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5

Tyre's are really good

5 out of 5 First bike, the Tracer 7
02 April 2024 by Hollywood

Year: 2023

It’s my first bike, it’s rides and feels secure, provided me with confidence from the balance in cornering and the standard breaks enabling me to take the ride to my own limits making it feel safe. Within the first month I covered 2000 miles, riding for hours with complete comfort (on the standard seat). On the motorway it will sit very comfortably at 70mph all day, then in the Northumberland hills give you the trill you seek sticking to the corners like glue. On average the bike will deliver 65.3 mpg depending on how you ride. The styling and colours (silver and blue) make you feel like the Lord of the manner with people admiring it and lavishing you with compliments. I love this bike and plan to keep it for years.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

It’s a great all round bike, no fear of feeling board or a monotonous ride. It’s fabulous on the motorway sitting comfortably at 70, there’s a little buffeting so adding an extension to The windshield would help. Having spent nearly three hours on one ride the seating position is relaxing and upright, arms are not overly extended and legs sit very comfortably on the begs. Upon stopping and getting off there was no discomfort or numbness anywhere.

Engine 5 out of 5

Wow! It’s fantastic. As I said this is my first bike at the age of 52, and it’s supported me to feel confident and capable of meeting all my expectations. The engine’s performance will let you ride to suit your individual needs, given that cruising Comfortably or wanting to put your knuckles to the sky and feel the Acceleration extend your arms by two inches.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Been caught in a few showers though it’s not used during winter months) and so far I have not seen and parts corroding as yet. It starts every time even after the long winter sitting in the shed.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

I wasn’t expecting the serving to be as expensive. At over two hundred pounds for the six thousand miles service I was informed the twelve thousand miles service would cost more given the extra work required.

Equipment 5 out of 5

The best feature has to be the styling, it looks modern and grabs people’s eyes. The lights at the front make it stand out in the crowd and provide an awareness of where you are on the road. I’ve fitted panniers which has not compromised any of the styling or performance, I plan to get a windshield extension to limit the buffering soon.

Buying experience: Bought from a dealer, the bike was five months old with 200miles on it. The advertised price was £7295, I purchased it for £7000 for a cash price. It was as expected, clean all paper work in order and serviced prior to collection.

4 out of 5
24 July 2023 by Moz

Year: 2021

Annual servicing cost: £150

No bike deserves a 5/5. But this is damn close.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Out of the showroom I found the suspension good. The rear shock was slightly 'crashy' compression wise so I upgraded. But honestly it's not 'really' worth the money as the stock shock was good enough and I do do lots of miles a year on bad roads. The screen is an issue, or should I say, an issue for me, If you're used to these upright bikes then it's probably normal. This bike is the most comfortable bike I've ever owned. I can do all day touring with only a slight 'arse' ache which can be alleviated to a degree as the seat is easy to move around on without loosing handling. Put some ebc pads in then job sorted. I had to change the chain and sprockets on the bike after 7000 miles and was amazed how little wear the pads had - says it all. This is one of the ultimate do it all bikes, it really will do everything. Light enough to pop to the shops, sporty enough to embarrass garage queens if you can ride and don't rely on BHP, it is all day comfy and as quick as anything on the road.

Engine 5 out of 5

Brilliant engine. And I love thrashing it as it revs out well. Torque and it revs out is a winner. Is it better than the CP3... Having owned the CP3 I think the CP3 is 'better' but it usually comes with extra weight and tech which I'm not interested in. Yamaha just seem to know how to build an exciting engine.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

15,000 miles and counting in 2 years. There can be a rattle where the screen mechanism meets the fairing but it's an easy fix. Take the T bar slider off and add some additional rubber. Absolutely nothing else has gone wrong inclusive of winter riding. It has started every time.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

For most people, if MCN are to be believed about annual milage, then depending where you live it's around £200 in the South East so cheaper in the provinces. What has to be mentioned is the valve clearance check - like most Yamahas its every 24k. Good luck with your Tiger 900 at 12k.

Equipment 5 out of 5

It has none. Which is why it is so good. Have a constant stream of 'service reminders' or engine warning lights then you'll know. Roadtec 01se's make it handle all year around.

4 out of 5
30 January 2023 by Davesbike

Year: 2020

Comfortable and easy to live with on a day-to-day basis, but equally involving and real world fast enough for weekend blasts. A bit basic in standard form, poor screen for a sports tourer and a lack of range to empty display is irritating.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Braking progressive and powerful enough. Ride quality is excellent, the suspension smooths out poor road surfaces and is confidence inspiring

Engine 5 out of 5

The cross plane twin is brilliant. Tractable in almost any gear and with a smooth linear power delivery. Sounds great too.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

No problems to report and finish is good

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Great fuel economy and the engine is a peach

Equipment 4 out of 5

A bit basic but the bike is great value for money. Definitely recommend heated grips and lack of a centre stand is something that annoys me (to be fair, that's not just Yamaha). And range to empty display on the dash would be nice, especially when touring. The Michelin Pilot 4 tyres are great.

Buying experience: Excellent. Bought second hand from a dealership. No problems at all. Bike was well priced at £6999 with very low mileage so I paid the asking price.

5 out of 5
05 December 2022 by Sly113

Version: Yamaha Tracer 700

Year: 2021

Annual servicing cost: £150

Value for money. I had the opportunity to test the Honda NC 750 and I can say that the tracer is a much better choice. you get the most for your money. the engine is light and manageable. a trusted companion. you can't find much fault with it. he does everything right and as needed. great for traveling as a couple. the passenger is comfortable. fuel consumption 3.5 liters. I would recommend tracer to my closest friend.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

ride quality is good but more average. I do not recommend tracer 7 for drivers who want more sportiness. brakes are good. the suspension is a weak point tracer 7. very very too soft. an extremely weak point is the wind visor. it's too small and even though I swapped it with Puig it still wasn't good. at a speed of 140 km/h and further, the helmet came into a kind of turbulence. very unpleasant.

Engine 5 out of 5

probably one of the best in not the best 2 cylinder inline engines on the market right now. responsive in every moment. high torque and consumption. never poor on horse power. perfect.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Never let me down.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

it is cheap to maintain. consumption of 3.5 to 4 liters even with a passenger. service 120 euros. I didn't change the rest. when I sold the tracer it had 4000 km.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Wind visor is nightmare ( not GT version).

Buying experience: Good

5 out of 5 Exceeded my expectations: a keeper
08 October 2021 by Trevor, Suffolk

Version: GT

Year: 2021

Annual servicing cost: £200

Staggeringly capable bike, and huge fun despite its 'worthy' reputation. Comfortable, and capable of town filtering, country road scratching or one up touring. Really hard to criticize: I guess wind protection could be improved; some might not be wowed by colours available, though I like the understated 'tech camo' scheme - just as well as I'm not a fan of bright blue wheels!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Excellent feel, well braked front and rear, progressive not snatchy. Good for up to 2 hours before a break, but would happily spend all day on it with those comfort and coffee breaks. GT version has panniers and decent pillion accommodation, though I might be looking at a bigger bike for 2 up touring comfort.

Engine 5 out of 5

It's a peach, pure and simple. It's all been said before, and the engine's great reputation is justified.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

All good here. Perhaps should re-visit when it's gone through a winter, but overall finish looks high quality.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Not over-laden with tech, eg rider modes, and screen is black and white, not colour. So what?

Buying experience: Bought new from Mototechniks of Stowkmarket. All good.

5 out of 5 Brilliant bike - Give it a try
04 September 2021 by Moz

Year: 2021

Annual servicing cost: £150

I think that it's probably a 4.5* bike but one has to take into account that this cost me £7500! To put my review into perspective I also own much bigger bikes and a dual sport. Harley, Ducati and Honda. It's so easy in the macho egotistical world of motorbikes to dismiss 74hp, but believe me this bike can do it all as long as your idea of touring is not sitting on multiple laned roads all day. If you're hell bent on going everywhere at 130mph look elsewhere; equally if you MUST stay in 6th gear for the entire journey.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

I'm giving it a 4 as if I was being totally critical then the shock is occasionally under damped. But I am being harsh as it's the first Yamaha that I've owned where I don't feel the need to upgrade the suspension - It's very good as stock. The brakes are brilliant, I own 2 bikes with Brembo's and these Nissin brakes are superb. 8 hours a day is no problem for me on this bike. The lightweight handling nature of it means that I don't get as tired as I would on my bigger bikes after a long day of Welsh mountain roads. This bike will sit comfortably on the motorway at legal and maybe 100mph but it really shines when one avoids the 'big' roads and goes on A/B/Unclassified/Single track roads. I have taken it on gentle green lanes but as usual, tyres and clearance make it slow going. No slower than a GS or Multi though.

Engine 5 out of 5

Could Yamaha make a boring engine if they tried?! I still believe that the CP3 is my favourite UK road engine but this is phenomenal. How an engine with such 'little' power, comparatively, can work in absolutely every single situation is remarkable. There's always enough power - Whatever the situation. There's a reason all the journo's love it. Fuelling is good, surprisingly it has great engine braking which some bikes with slipper clutches seem to lack nowadays.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

It's a Yamaha. If only my European and American bike was as well made.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I'm guessing a bit at the annual service cost but this is dealership prices down south. Would cost a pittance at an independent one would imagine. It's a low stressed parallel twin and Japanese.

Equipment 4 out of 5

I think that it should have come with the USB outlet. Not a huge expense but it would have been nice and a must for touring. A touring screen would be welcome but at least the stock screen has no real buffeting as it directs the air at my clavicle - preferable for me over the torture felt from the buffeting screens of a V-Strom thou or 1260s. The stock PR4's are good and they have taken me down some shabby roads and 'off road' without issue - there's just something about them that when you're leant right over they seem to 'dip in' so I will most likely change for some 01SE's. In an ideal world I would have CC but then that would take away from the beauty of this bike which is back to basics, lightweight fun.

Buying experience: Bought from Freestyle Chichester. They're brilliant. Put my local 'non-Japanese' dealers to shame.

4 out of 5 What a bike should be …
03 July 2021 by Ziggy Jung

Version: It’s called a Tracer 7 now not 700!

Year: 2021

This a very responsive machine and you get great, very accurate feedback from rubber to the seat of your trousers. It’s also great around town and filtering is a doddle. The downsides come in places that Yamaha could so easily have improved. The short screen while not useless really isn’t up to the job at any setting height. However, unforgivable is the lack of an adjustable clutch lever - how much would that have added to the price Yamaha?

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Heading up hill to through the twisties the Tracer 7 reminds you of the first day you rode a real motorcycle. There will be a big grin in that helmet. Coming down the other side there is nothing wrong with the way the Tracer brakes. However, there are times when the front can feel a little long when you’ve been put some heat into the discs. The bike sits totally on the line of sport touring. It’s clearly neither and yet it’s just the right mix of both. Fun on the bends and well behaved on a long run.

Engine 5 out of 5

The 7 leaves you with a smile. You chose a middle weight for a reason. That reason is the 700cc Yamaha twin power unit.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

The matte finish looks lovely in the showroom I’m less convinced now it’s out on the road. Switch gear is horrid. The turn indicators switch feels cheap and is so small it gets lost in your glove. For me horn is far too far to RH side.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Nothing here is going to break the bank.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Great and clearly laid out screen with info in all the right places. However, the list of extras you’ll probably want is going to add up. Comfort seat, touring screen and adjustable clutch lever will probably be your top 3.

5 out of 5 Tracer 700 review
22 March 2021 by JeffB74

Year: 2020

Annual servicing cost: £220

Best feature is without a doubt the engine, you just know it is going to start first time every time. Comfort seems to have been a priority for Yamaha when designing the bike, with the adjustable suspension and rear sets it just puts you in the most comfortable position for sitting and riding. I think it is let down a bit by the instrument gauge surround, seems a bit cheap and plasticy but overall it is a well built bike with a good quality feel.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

I find the brakes a bit grabby sometimes on the front, and also the throttle can be jumpy if you are not used to it. The suspension is clean and crisp and there is plenty of lower end torque to get you moving in pretty much any gear. I have the lowered seat and the weekend pack with the soft panniers. They extend the bikes usability and look really good. The USB port is a must if you are going for a long ride and going to be using satnav or your phone as a satnav. Bike is comfortable for a few hours at a time but a break is recommended just to stretch the legs.

Engine 5 out of 5

Plenty of bottom end torque, revvy range and will sit at 70mph all day if thats what you want from it or bend it like Beckham and have a bit of fun on corners, it can do both!

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Because its still under warranty, i always have it serviced at a Yamaha Dealership which can be a lot more expensive than an independent garage.

Equipment 5 out of 5

The higher screen on the weekend pack is still noisy but it does keep the air off you, and riding in the wet isn't too bad either as the shape of the fairing keeps most of the rain off your legs. The instrument screen is great, crystal clear in any light. If i had one complaint, it would be to make the indicators just a bit bigger as they can be hard to see.

Buying experience: Bought from a dealer who installed the lowered seat and weekend pack for me. I have a no haggle approach because the bike was worth the asking price.

5 out of 5 Early days....
19 February 2021 by Andy Gibbs

Year: 2020

Did 115K miles on old model and this is the same but better

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Suspension feels better than old bike. brakes powerful enough for me.

Engine 5 out of 5

briliant through the range

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Only a 1,000 miles so far but everything solid. The plastics now use less bolts and more plastic clips - easyt to get apart but not sure about longf term.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I do my own servicing - mostly easy

Equipment 4 out of 5

Buying experience: the clock display selector on handlebar is great improvement

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