Yamaha MT-09 (2021-2022) Review: The Torque-Fueled Hyper Naked Revolution

Introduction

The Yamaha MT-09 has always been a disruptor in the naked bike segment, and the 2021-2022 iteration takes this rebellious spirit to new heights. With its redesigned CP3 engine, sharper electronics, and radical styling, this generation solidifies Yamaha's "Dark Side of Japan" philosophy. After spending a week wrestling this torque monster through mountain passes and city streets, it's clear: Yamaha didn't just update the MT-09—they weaponized it.

Engine Performance: The CP3's Brutal Symphony

At the heart beats the 890cc inline-triple, now lighter and angrier than ever. The 11.5:1 compression ratio and redesigned pistons deliver 117 hp at 10,000 RPM, but numbers don't capture the experience. Crack the throttle at 4,000 RPM, and the world blurs—87.5 Nm (64.5 lb-ft) of torque slingshots you forward with a primal growl that transitions to a metallic howl at redline.

Fuel efficiency surprises at 4.8L/100km (49 mpg), though you'll rarely see it when exploiting the new Quick Shifter. The up/down system is butter-smooth, enabling clutchless aggression that turns traffic lights into drag strips. The Assist & Slipper clutch? A wrist-saver during canyon carving marathons.

Chassis & Handling: Controlled Chaos

Yamaha's new Deltabox frame is witchcraft. The 1430mm (56.3") wheelbase and 25° rake balance flickability with stability—I threw it into decreasing-radius turns expecting drama, only to find Zen-like composure. Much credit goes to the Spin Forged wheels (11% lighter rear) and fully adjustable KYB suspension.

The 41mm inverted forks ate up mid-corner bumps I deliberately targeted, while the rear shock kept the 180-section Michelin Pilot Road 5 glued. Braking? The radial-mount Nissin calipers biting 298mm discs inspire suicidal confidence. This 189kg (417lb) machine stops harder than its spec sheet suggests.

Electronics Suite: IMU Wizardry

The 6-axis IMU is the brain behind the madness. Lean-sensitive traction control became my safety net during rainy commutes—Mode 1 allows playful slides, while Mode 2 intervenes like an overprotective parent. Slide Control (SCS) and Lift Control (LIF) are invisible guardians, though purists can disable them via the stunning 3.5" TFT display.

Yamaha's D-MODE throttle maps:
- Mode 1: Raw, unfiltered violence
- Mode 2: Tamed for wet leaves and paranoia
- Mode 3: Makes Harleys feel hooligan

Ergonomics & Design: Functional Aggression

The 826mm (32.5") seat height welcomes shorter riders, though the scooped design locks you in during acceleration. Adjustable handlebars (10mm range) let you choose between café racer crouch and upright cruising. That tank design? Pure genius—your knees slot into recesses like they're magnetized.

LED lighting isn't just for show. The Y-shaped DRLs cast an ominous glow, while the adaptive headlight should be illegal (in a good way). Color options like Cyan Storm aren't paints—they're dopamine injections.

Competition: Hyper Naked Thunderdome

Triumph Street Triple RS

The Brit's 765cc triple is surgical—precise, rev-happy, with sublime suspension. But it lacks the MT-09's low-end grunt and tech arsenal. Perfect for track addicts, less so for torque junkies.

Kawasaki Z900

A 948cc inline-four symphony with silky power delivery. However, its steel frame feels heavy compared to Yamaha's aluminum ballet. Tech? Stuck in 2018.

KTM 890 Duke R

The Austrian's punchiest contender. Similar power, superior WP suspension, but ergonomics that punish anyone over 30. The MT-09 is the grown-up choice—wild, but house-trained.

Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Hungry

Critical Service Points

• Oil Changes: Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) with Yamalube 10W-40. The 3.4L capacity is generous, but watch for metal flakes during break-in.
• Chain Care: DID 525 chain needs adjustment every 800 km (500 miles)—stretch is real with all that torque.
• Valve Checks: Every 42,000 km (26,000 miles). Shim-under-bucket design means less frequent adjustments than rivals.
• Brake Fluid: Flush every 2 years. Those radial calipers deserve fresh DOT4.

MOTOPARTS.store Upgrades

• Suspension: Öhlins STX46 shock transforms rear-end feel ($850)
• Exhaust: Akrapovič Titanium Slip-On (saves 3.2kg/7lbs, unlocks the CP3's true voice)
• Protection: R&G Engine Covers + Swingarm Spools ($220 combo)
• Comfort: Puig Touring Screen (cuts highway fatigue without ruining aesthetics)

Conclusion: The Naked Apex

The 2021-2022 MT-09 isn't just a motorcycle—it's a personality test. If you grin while backing it into corners and laugh when the front wheel defies gravity, this is your soulmate. Yamaha took the "Hyper Naked" brief and built a shapeshifter: commuter by Monday, canyon assassin by weekend, showstopper 24/7.

Does it have flaws? The mirrors vibrate at triple digits, and the stock seat becomes a medieval torture device after 90 minutes. But these are mere footnotes in a love letter to combustion madness. In a world drifting toward electric neutrality, the MT-09 is a glorious middle finger to conformity.

Ride hard. Stay twisted. Let MOTOPARTS.store fuel your rebellion.

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Specifications sheet

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