Yamaha MT-07 (2021-2022) Review: The Hyper Naked That Redefines Middleweight Thrills

When Yamaha unleashed the MT-07 in 2021, it wasn’t just an update—it was a declaration of war on mediocrity in the middleweight naked bike segment. As part of the "Dark Side of Japan" philosophy, this machine blends rebellious styling with an engine that feels like it’s been injected with pure adrenaline. After spending a week wrestling its tapered handlebars through canyon roads and urban jungles, I’m convinced this remains the gateway drug to Yamaha’s Hyper Naked empire. Let’s dissect why.

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Riding Experience: Where Torque Meets Telepathy

The Heartbeat of Tokyo’s Streets

Slip into the MT-07’s saddle (a manageable 805mm/31.7" seat height), thumb the starter, and the 689cc CP2 engine awakens with a guttural bark through its 2-into-1 exhaust. This isn’t just any parallel twin—the 270-degree crank delivers a firing order that mimics a V-twin’s soulfulness, complete with a exhaust note that transitions from bassy growl at idle to metallic howl at the 9,000 RPM redline.

Key Stats (Metric/Imperial):
- 74 HP (54 kW) @ 9,000 RPM / 68 Nm (50.2 lb-ft) @ 6,500 RPM
- 184 kg (406 lbs) wet weight
- 4.06 L/100km (57.94 MPG) claimed fuel efficiency

The magic lies in the torque curve—68 Nm peaking at 6,500 RPM means you’re surfing a tsunami of mid-range thrust. From 4,000 RPM onward, cracking the throttle feels like someone detonated a rocket in your backpack. Yet it’s never intimidating, thanks to the Mikuni throttle bodies’ crisp response. In stoplight dashes, only supercars in the next lane will mock your progress.

Handling: Lightness as a Religion

Yamaha’s mass-centralized chassis (wheelbase: 1,400mm/55.1") turns physics into a suggestion. Flicking through tight corners feels like guiding a laser beam—the 41mm KYB forks and rear monoshock (both with 130mm/5.1" travel) strike a genius balance between sporty tautness and bump absorption. Michelin Road 5 tires (120/70-17 front, 180/55-17 rear) offer tenacious grip, even when attacking rain-slicked hairpins.

The 32mm-wider tapered handlebars (now 780mm/30.7" wide) give Harley-level leverage for parking lot U-turns yet disappear beneath you at speed. At 184 kg (406 lbs) fueled, this is a bike that dances on its toes, rewarding aggressive countersteering but forgiving minor rider errors.

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Design & Features: Cyberpunk Meets Functionality

Face of the Future

The MT-07’s LED headlight isn’t just illumination—it’s a statement. The central projector flanked by Y-shaped DRLs creates a menacing cyborg stare that makes other commuters instinctively clear lanes. LED turn signals (now standard) complete the futuristic look while reducing weight.

Color options like Storm Fluo (neon accents on black) and Matte Raven Black appeal to riders who’d rather stand out than blend in. The sculpted tank shrouds and minimalist tail section scream “Tokyo after dark,” though the 14L (3.7 gal) fuel capacity reminds you this is no café racer poser.

Tech That Doesn’t Distract

Yamaha’s inverted LCD dash is a masterclass in simplicity—large gear indicator, crisp tach bar graph, and fuel gauge visible at a glance. No touchscreens here, just essential data presented with industrial clarity. The only nitpick: lack of a gear position sensor for the six-speed box, forcing you to count shifts during aggressive riding.

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Competition: Middleweight Gladiators Compared

Kawasaki Z650

• Pros: Slightly smoother inline twin, lower seat (790mm/31.1")
• Cons: 67 Nm torque @ 6,500 RPM can’t match Yamaha’s mid-range punch
• MT-07 Edge: 7kg lighter, more aggressive ergonomics

Suzuki SV650

• Pros: V-twin character, $500 cheaper MSRP
• Cons: Ancient suspension, 1970s-grade brakes
• MT-07 Edge: Modern electronics, superior cornering clearance

Honda CB650R

• Pros: 16 HP advantage from inline-four engine
• Cons: 12kg heavier, torque doesn’t arrive until 8,000 RPM
• MT-07 Edge: 50% cheaper chain maintenance (108 links vs. Honda’s 114)

Verdict: The MT-07 dominates for riders prioritizing torque accessibility and flickable handling over peak horsepower bragging rights.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Hungry

Critical Service Intervals

• Engine Oil: Every 6,000 km (3,700 mi) with SAE 10W-40 (3L/3.17 qt with filter)
• Chain: Clean/lube every 500 km (310 mi); 525-size with 16/43 sprockets wears faster than premium alternatives
• Valve Clearance: Every 42,000 km (26,000 mi)—DOHC design requires shims but stays stable
• Coolant: Replace every 2 years/20,000 km (12,400 mi) using 1.85L (0.49 gal) of ethylene glycol

MOTOPARTS.store Upgrade Recommendations

1. Chain & Sprockets Kit: Swap to DID 525VX3 chain (+20% lifespan) and steel rear sprocket
2. Brake Pads: EBC HH sintered pads for stronger bite vs. OEM organic compound
3. Air Filter: High-flow DNA unit wakes up the Mikuni injection’s mid-range
4. Bar End Mirrors: Reduce vibration over stock units while enhancing the naked look

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Conclusion: The Urban Samurai’s Steed

The 2021-2022 MT-07 isn’t just transportation—it’s a middle finger to conformity. From its cybernetic styling to an engine that pulls like a deranged donkey, this bike makes every commute feel like a scene from Akira. While rivals focus on specsheets, Yamaha delivered a machine that speaks directly to your lizard brain through its grips, pegs, and exhaust wail.

Ready to make it yours? MOTOPARTS.store has every upgrade to sharpen its claws further—because stock is for showroom floors, not the streets that matter.

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Specifications sheet

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