Next-gen MT-09 is go! Yamaha’s popular three-cylinder roadster gets bold new facelift, fresh ergonomics and updated tech

Ten years after the launch of the original, game-changing MT-09 naked motorbike, Yamaha have revealed the third generation – treating the popular naked triple to a new face, revised riding position and updated electronics. 

• We’ve ridden it! Read our full 2024 Yamaha MT-09 review

Although the heart of the bike is unchanged from the 2021 model (its characteristic 117bhp ‘CP3’ three-cylinder engine received a makeover and it also gained a cast aluminium Deltabox frame) the rest of the 2024 MT-09 is virtually all-new. 

Most obvious is the bodywork and styling, with new LED lights, a sportier riding position, sharper steering geometry, uprated brakes, a new dash and switchgear, and extra tech including cruise control.

When the original MT-09 was launched in 2013 it heralded a new dawn for Yamaha. It became an immediate bestseller and spawned the smaller MT-07 parallel-twin, and spin-offs like the Tracer 9 sports-tourer.

The MT-09 has undergone a series of updates since, with this ‘new-look’ MT-09 probably the most significant yet. Starting up front, the slimmer, sharper new look is said to be inspired by Yamaha’s YZ motocrossers.

There’s a new fuel tank, a new LED front light cluster comprising projector headlamp and twin riding lights housed in a redesigned cover – plus a novel, new rear LED unit with separate tail and brake lights. There’s also a new two-piece seat with matching, minimalist bodywork.

The riding position has been updated too. The handlebar is lower and two-way adjustable, with the steering angle increased slightly. 

New footrests are 30.6mm further back and 9.5mm higher, and can be adjusted through two different positions. To improve passenger comfort, the pillion footrests have been re-designed, as have the rear brake pedal and gear levers, with the latter still incorporating a quickshifter.

There are significant practical updates too. The biggest is surely the five-inch TFT dash and corresponding switchgear. Based on those on the 2023 Tracer 9 GT+ and Niken GT, the screen has four different themes, a clean design, built-in communications interface via Yamaha’s free MyRide app and can also display Garmin’s StreetCross satnav app system.

Along with the three standard riding modes, two custom modes allow personalisation of the power, traction and slide control among other settings.

Other new arrivals are cruise control, Back Slip Regulator (which essentially assists when the rear wheel locks under excessive engine braking), a Brembo radial master for improved front braking, Bridgestone’s latest Battlax Hypersport S23 tyres and an acoustic amplifier grille designed to enhance the exhaust note.

The new MT-09 will be available in three colours, Midnight Cyan, Icon Blue and Tech Black. You can see it at Motorcycle Live show at the NEC (Nov 18-26) but price and availability have yet to be revealed.

2024 Yamaha MT-09 in detail

• Looking sharp: The 2024 MT-09 gets a fresh, sharp new look inspired by Yamaha’s motocrossers and comprises a new fuel tank, new LED lights front and rear (the front with a new cowling, and the rear with novel twin lights) and new two-piece seat and rear bodywork. Three colours will be available.
• Sportier positions: The riding position is sharper and sportier than before thanks to lower handlebars (which are two-way adjustable), higher and more rear-set footpegs and the new two-piece seat. Pillion pegs are designed to be more comfortable, and the brake pedal and gear lever have also been treated to a redesign.
• New tech: Along with the new dash/switchgear, the 2024 MT-09’s equipment has also been enhanced with new standard-fit cruise control, Back Slip Regulator (see above) and an acoustic amplifier grille to enhance its sound. There’s also a new Brembo radially mounted front brake master cylinder.
• Flash dash: New 5in TFT dash is developed from that of the 2023 Tracer 9 GT+ and can be fully connected to your mobile. Rider interaction comes via new, more ergonomic and intuitive switchgear that also debuted on the 2023 Tracer 9 GT+ and Niken GT.