P114
RIDE REVIEW I 2025 YAMAHA YZF-R9
machine, as opposed to a short-ratio race-inspired six-speed unit.
You can thus hold gears for a long time (at least in the wet),
keeping the motor surfing its buxom torque curve and
keeping the bike driving forward. Racers may find these
ratios not aggressive enough, although Stefano Manzi
would probably disagree, having taken the R9 to victory
lane on his very first attempt at Phillip Island.
The performance, as usual, is metered through
the Bosch six-axis IMU-fettled electronics and the
expansive Yamaha rider suite system. In it sit three
modes in Sport, Street and Rain, a couple of
customizable Rider modes and an extra four
racetrack modes. These give you access to the
engine power modes, slide, traction, launch-
and wheelie-control levels, ABS that can be
disengaged on the rear and your quickshifter
levels. And for the road riders out there, don't
forget you get cruise control as standard.
Cruise control comes standard on the R9. Hallelujah!
The MT-09-derived swingarm gets replaced
by the longer Tracer swingarm if you're
serious about going racing. You'll gain
50mm of wheelbase as a result.
Higher-set handlebars
and lower-set footpegs
make a massive
difference in comfort.
