P94
RIDE REVIEW I 2021 YAMAHA MT-09
ALL ATE UP
WITH MOTOR
Did we mention that the MT-09
boasts one of the great engines
in motorcycling? It's the defining
feature of the bike, and makes a
ride through tight, rocky canyons
and every tunnel an exercise in
volume control as much as it is a
test of your riding skill. Induction
racket is sublime—almost comical-
ly good. You can play the MT-09
like an instrument.
Displacement is up a nudge,
from 847cc to 890cc. Other
significant changes include a
new cylinder head with improved
cooling, a new intake, and new
intake and exhaust camshafts.
Yamaha claims a number of ac-
complishments from its changes.
The most important update is the
least compelling for a rider, which
is Euro 5 emissions compliance.
Even after clearing that humon-
gous regulatory hurdle, Yamaha
claims the 2021 MT-09 managed
a six percent increase in torque.
Frankly, it all goes unnoticed.
The bike doesn't feel more or
less powerful. The CP3 engine
still thrills when you let it rip. But
then, it's never really been the mill
that's held back the MT-09.
There's still a hint of
teenage angst in the
design but the MT-09
is a far better bike in
2021 than it was when
it debuted in 2014.
