The MT-07 and MT-09 share Yamaha's naked bike DNA, but they are built for different riders. The MT-07 is a lightweight, approachable street bike with strong urban manners and genuine fun factor across a wide range of experience levels - including a LAMS-compliant version available in Australia for learner riders. The MT-09 is a more aggressive machine with a triple-cylinder engine, a full electronics suite, and the kind of performance that rewards experience. If you are new to nakeds, returning to riding, or primarily commuting in the city, the MT-07 is almost certainly the right choice. If you have solid experience and want more power, sharper tech, and a bike that keeps rewarding you as your skills grow, the MT-09 delivers that convincingly. Yamaha MT Overview: Core Differences Between MT-07 and MT-09 The two bikes share a platform philosophy - aggressive styling, mid-set ergonomics, naked bodywork - but diverge sharply on mechanical specification. Spec Yamaha MT-07 Yamaha MT-09 Engine 689cc parallel-twin 890cc inline-triple (CP3) Peak power 74 hp 117 hp Wet weight ~183 kg ~193 kg Electronics YRC riding modes, TC, ABS IMU-based full suite LAMS variant Yes No Full specifications including suspension, fuel economy, wheelbase, and instrumentation are in the comparison table at the end of this article. The MT-09 costs more at the point of purchase and continues to cost more in fuel and insurance across ownership. The MT-07 holds resale value well in Australia and has lower running costs overall - with fuel economy of approximately 23 km/L compared to the MT-09's 18-19 km/L, a meaningful difference across a daily commute. Both bikes are available in standard and Y-AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) variants. The MT-07 also comes in a LAMS-approved configuration for learner and provisional licence holders. First Impressions and Fun Factor for the Yamaha MT Range Both bikes carry Yamaha's streetfighter aesthetic - angular headlights, exposed frame, aggressive proportions. Standing next to each other, the MT-09 reads as the more imposing machine; wider, taller at the seat, with a front end that conveys intent. The MT-07 looks sharp and purposeful but feels more approachable in the way it presents itself. Shorter riders can gauge the seat height visually and feel more confident before they even sit on it. The MT-09's extra seat height and mass communicate - accurately - that it expects more from the rider. First rides reflect this. The MT-07's immediate character is light, responsive, and forgiving. The MT-09's first impression is one of contained power - the CP3 triple has a distinctive sound and feel that makes itself known even at low throttle openings. Yamaha MT-07: Urban-Focused Fun Factor and Personality The MT-07's 689cc CP2 parallel-twin delivers 74 hp and 67 Nm of torque in a way that feels immediate and accessible rather than sharp or demanding. The power arrives early in the rev range, which makes city riding satisfying without requiring deliberate gear management. At approximately 183 kg wet, it is one of the lighter bikes in its class. That weight is felt in every low-speed interaction - filtering, slow turns, car park manoeuvres - and it makes the bike confidence-inspiring rather than something you manage carefully. The 805mm seat height is manageable for a wide range of rider heights, and the commanding riding position keeps visibility and comfort balanced for daily use. The 2025 generation MT-07 arrived with a comprehensive overhaul. It features a 5-inch full-colour TFT display with smartphone connectivity, Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) riding modes - Sport, Street, and Custom - ride-by-wire throttle (YCC-T), and a switchable traction control system. Hardware upgrades include 41mm inverted forks, radially mounted front brake calipers, lightweight SpinForged wheels, and a revised chassis. Acoustic amplifying technology is also built in to optimise intake noise and enhance the CP2's distinctive exhaust note. The bike retains its accessible character but has been brought up to a genuinely high specification for its class. For longer rides, the MT-07 has limits. The seat becomes firm over extended distances and wind protection is minimal. It is a bike that genuinely rewards city and weekend riding rather than touring. Riders planning regular long-distance highway runs should factor that into their decision. The MT-07HO and the MT-07 LAMS variant are both available at Procycles. The MT-07HO Y-AMT adds Yamaha's automated clutchless transmission and cruise control for riders who want a different experience on longer runs. Yamaha MT-09: Aggressive Fun Factor With Tech Emphasis The MT-09's CP3 inline-triple produces 117 hp and 93 Nm of torque, and it delivers that power with a character that is immediately distinct. The triple-cylinder configuration produces strong midrange torque with a howling top-end note - it is a responsive engine that communicates clearly through the throttle. The electronics package reflects the MT-09's positioning as a more serious performance tool. A six-axis IMU underpins traction control, slide control, lift control, and cornering ABS. Customisable ride modes adjust throttle response and intervention thresholds. The 5-inch colour TFT display features smartphone connectivity and navigation, and the Third Gen Quick Shift System allows seamless up and down gear changes without the clutch. The standard MT-09 also includes cruise control, making it a more complete package for mixed highway and city use. Hardware highlights include a die-cast aluminium Deltabox chassis, fully adjustable KYB suspension front and rear, a Brembo master cylinder for improved braking feel, and Acoustic Amplifier Grilles that enhance the CP3's engine note. The bike can be dialled in for different riding scenarios rather than accepting a fixed factory setup. For less-experienced riders, the MT-09 demands respect. The power arrives confidently and the electronics, while excellent, are there to manage the consequences of mistakes rather than prevent them entirely. The bike rewards riders who are already comfortable with throttle control, braking technique, and cornering lines. The MT-09 and the MT-09 Y-AMT are both stocked at Procycles. The Y-AMT variant pairs the CP3 engine with Yamaha's automated clutchless transmission for a different riding experience. City Riding and Daily Usability (MT-07 vs MT-09) MT-07 in Urban Use The MT-07 is one of the better commuter nakeds in its class. Light weight, immediate low-speed torque, and a compact chassis make filtering through traffic natural rather than effortful. The throttle response at low openings is smooth and predictable - there is no sudden surge that demands careful management in slow-moving conditions. Fuel economy of approximately 23 km/L gives the MT-07 a practical range of approximately 320 km on a full 14L tank under normal riding conditions, which reduces the frequency of refuelling stops on a daily commute. Running costs are lower than the MT-09 across the board, including insurance - a consideration worth factoring into total ownership cost rather than just purchase price. MT-09 in Urban Use The MT-09 is capable in city conditions but it is not its natural environment. The CP3 engine is composed at low throttle openings, and the electronics package manages traction confidently in low-grip urban scenarios. Stability through faster urban stretches - arterial roads, highway on-ramps, fast lane changes - is where the MT-09's chassis and electronics work together most effectively. The trade-off is weight, width, and cost per kilometre. The MT-09 is not unwieldy in traffic, but it does not have the effortless agility of the MT-07 in tight spaces. Fuel economy is lower, and the more powerful engine requires 95 RON premium fuel. Highway, Touring, and Long-Distance Comfort Neither bike is a tourer, but they differ in how they handle extended riding. The MT-09's suspension and chassis manage highway speeds with more composure than the MT-07. The fully adjustable KYB suspension can be stiffened for stability at pace, and the power reserve means the engine is relaxed rather than buzzing at highway cruise. The seat, while not touring-spec, holds up better over distance than the MT-07's. The MT-07 is highway-capable but less comfortable over long stints. At sustained highway speeds the engine is working harder relative to its capacity, and the minimal wind protection leads to rider fatigue on extended trips. Both bikes accept aftermarket luggage solutions, though neither offers factory mounting systems. For riders who want to know more about managing a step-up in power after LAMS, our guide on upgrading from your LAMS bike covers what to expect in practical terms. Performance, Handling, and Aggressive Riding MT-07 Handling Characteristics The MT-07 earns its reputation as a flickable, playful bike at pace. The chassis responds quickly to direction changes and the light weight makes cornering feel intuitive rather than committed. It is a bike that builds confidence progressively - the more you push it, the more it rewards. The stock suspension is non-adjustable and represents the clearest limit for riders who want to push the MT-07 harder. An aftermarket fork spring and rear shock upgrade transforms the bike's cornering composure and feedback at pace. For riders who regularly ride spirited mountain roads or track days, that upgrade is worth doing early. MT-09 Handling Characteristics The MT-09 handles in a more direct, point-and-shoot manner. The fully adjustable suspension, combined with the IMU-based electronics, means the bike can be set up precisely for the conditions and asked to do more without losing composure. Cornering ABS and slide control provide a safety net that allows riders to explore the chassis limits more confidently. For track days and fast road riding, the MT-09 is the stronger tool. Adjusting suspension settings for a particular road or track takes time to learn, but the payoff in performance and feedback is significant for riders who invest in understanding the bike. Electronics and Rider Aids The 2025 MT-07 now offers a comprehensive electronics package. YRC riding modes - Sport, Street, and Custom - allow the rider to adjust throttle response and traction control intervention. The ride-by-wire throttle (YCC-T), switchable TCS, 5-inch TFT with smartphone connectivity, and acoustic amplifying technology all come standard. It is not an IMU-based system, but it covers everything most riders need day to day without demanding deep configuration. Cruise control is available on the Y-AMT variant for riders who want it on longer runs. The MT-09's suite goes further: a six-axis IMU underpins traction control, slide control, lift control, and cornering ABS, with a wider range of customisable ride modes. The Third Gen Quick Shift System, cruise control, Brembo master cylinder, and 5-inch TFT with smartphone connectivity and navigation round out a feature set that is among the best in its class. Both bikes share a 5-inch colour TFT with smartphone connectivity, so the instrumentation gap has largely closed. The MT-09's interface remains more feature-rich - particularly for riders who want to actively manage IMU-based aids and navigation on the fly - but the MT-07 is no longer meaningfully behind on everyday usability. Maintenance and Ownership Both bikes are well-regarded for reliability. Yamaha's reputation for build quality applies across the MT range, and neither model has significant known failure points under normal use. Regular oil changes and basic maintenance keep both running dependably across high kilometres. The MT-07's electronics are more capable than earlier generations but remain less complex than the MT-09's IMU-based system. Service tasks are accessible for confident home mechanics, and parts availability is strong given the bike's global sales volume. The ride-by-wire system and YRC modes are dealer-serviceable without specialist equipment in most cases. The MT-09's complexity is manageable but requires more attentive ownership. Suspension setup, electronics calibration, and software updates are best handled by a dealer with appropriate tooling. Service intervals are similar between models, but the MT-09's higher performance demands premium consumables - tyres, brake pads, and oil - that cost more than the MT-07's equivalents. Insurance costs favour the MT-07 in most brackets, particularly for younger or less-experienced riders. Depreciation is modest on both, with the MT-07's strong resale demand in the used LAMS and post-LAMS market providing a clear floor. Price, Trims, and Value Proposition for Yamaha MT Models The MT-07 is available in standard HO trim, the LAMS-compliant LA variant, and the Y-AMT automated transmission model - which also adds cruise control. The MT-09 is available in standard and Y-AMT variants. When budgeting for either bike, factor in accessories from the outset. Both bikes benefit from a quality helmet, protective gear, and at minimum a decent tail bag or top box for daily practicality. Aftermarket exhausts and suspension upgrades are popular on both models and can be added progressively over time. On the used market, both bikes hold value well. Check service history, tyre condition, and any aftermarket modifications when assessing a used MT. Modifications are not inherently a negative, but confirm they are appropriate for the bike's intended use and have not voided any warranty. Decision Guide: Which Yamaha MT Should You Choose? Choose the MT-07 if you: Are on a learner or provisional licence (LAMS variant available) Primarily ride in the city with occasional weekend rides Prioritise lower running costs and simpler ownership Want a bike that is easy to modify and personalise Are returning to riding after a break and want a forgiving reintroduction Choose the MT-09 if you: Hold a full licence and have intermediate to advanced riding experience Want a bike that keeps rewarding you as your skills develop Ride a mix of city, highway, and spirited roads regularly Value advanced electronics and a premium instrument package Are comfortable with higher running costs in exchange for greater performance Test ride checklist for both bikes: How does low-speed throttle response feel in a car park? Can you comfortably place at least one foot flat at a stop? Does the seat height and handlebar reach suit your body? How does the bike respond to a smooth, gradual acceleration from 40 to 80km/h? For the MT-09: navigate the rider mode menu during the ride to assess usability The MT line is covered in depth in the Yamaha MT series explained guide on the Procycles blog, which is worth reading alongside this comparison. If you are also considering alternatives, our Kawasaki Z650 vs Yamaha MT-07 comparison covers that matchup directly, and the ultimate guide to Yamaha motorcycles provides broader context across the full range. Ready to get on one? Visit the Procycles showroom at Hornsby or St Peters to sit on both bikes and book a test ride. You can also reach the team directly through our contact page to ask about current availability, pricing, and finance options for either model. Full Spec Comparison: MT-07 vs MT-09 Feature Yamaha MT-07 Yamaha MT-09 Engine 689cc CP2 parallel-twin 890cc CP3 inline-triple Peak power 74 hp 117 hp Torque 67 Nm 93 Nm Wet weight ~183 kg ~193 kg Seat height 805mm 825mm Fuel capacity 14L 14L Wheelbase 1,400mm 1,430mm Chassis Revised frame Die-cast aluminium Deltabox Front suspension 41mm KYB inverted forks Fully adjustable KYB Brakes (front) Radially mounted calipers Brembo master cylinder Wheels Lightweight SpinForged Lightweight SpinForged Electronics YRC modes (Sport/Street/Custom), YCC-T, switchable TCS 6-axis IMU, TC, slide/lift control, cornering ABS, customisable ride modes Display 5-inch colour TFT 5-inch colour TFT Smartphone connectivity Yes Yes Quick-shifter Not listed Third Gen Quick Shift (up/down) Cruise control Y-AMT variant only Standard Acoustic technology Acoustic amplifying technology Acoustic Amplifier Grilles LAMS variant Yes (MT-07LA) No Fuel economy (est.) ~23 km/L ~18-19 km/L
