Yamaha’s new hyper naked has arrived, looking meaner than ever
As promised during the launch of the Yamaha TMAX 560 in October, Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has launched the new and upgraded Yamaha MT-09 naked bike to the Malaysian market.
Appearance-wise, the MT-09 now sports a cyclops-like face thanks to a single, bifunctional LED headlight flanked by light strips that act as daytime running lights. This is matched with the LED taillight, which projects a signature Y-shaped illumination.
For the new model year, the MT-09 is still powered by a liquid-cooled three-cylinder crossplane engine but with a displacement of 889 cc, the revised engine is 42 cc larger than before. Mated to a six-speed gearbox, the engine makes 119 PS at 10,000 rpm and 93 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm, representing an increase of 4 PS and 5.5 Nm.
The Deltabox aluminium frame is also new and 2.3 kg lighter than that of the previous model. Up front, there’s a fully-adjustable 41 mm Kayaba forks while at the rear, you’ll find a newly designed linkage to match with the new high-rigidity swingarm. The new forged wheels are 700 grams lighter, which helps to reduce the moment of inertia at the rear by 11 percent.
Tech-wise, the MT-09 is equipped with Yamaha’s newly developed 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), which comprises three rider aids; Traction Control System (TCS), Slide Control System (SCS), and front-wheel Lift Control System (LIF).
There is also a 3.5-inch TFT display that features a bar-type tachometer that changes colour as rpm rises or falls, as well as multi-functional displays for fuel, average mileage, gear indicator and more. Riders can switch between displays and their preferred mode for electronic aids via a handlebar-mounted switch.
Available in Ice Blue and Storm Fluo, the new Yamaha MT-09 is priced at RM54,998 excluding insurance and registration. First 300 units of the MT-09 come with an exclusive key pouch by Royal Selangor while each new owner will receive a free safety disc lock.
