Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2022 Yamaha MT-09 Tracer 900 GT, a bike that has been making waves in the sport-touring world. If you're looking for a versatile machine that can handle your daily commute, weekend adventures, and even longer tours, this might just be the perfect fit. Let’s explore everything this incredible bike has to offer!

Overview of the Yamaha MT-09 Tracer 900 GT

The Yamaha MT-09 Tracer 900 GT is designed as a comfortable yet sporty ride. It bridges the gap between a naked bike and a full-fledged touring motorcycle. It’s powered by a potent inline-triple engine, and it comes loaded with features that enhance both comfort and performance. The 2022 model refines the existing platform, offering improvements in technology, ergonomics, and overall riding experience. From its adjustable windscreen to its comprehensive electronics package, this bike is built for riders who demand versatility and value.

Key Features and Highlights

• Engine: 847cc inline-triple engine
• Suspension: Fully adjustable KYB suspension
• Electronics: Ride-by-wire throttle, multiple riding modes, traction control, and ABS
• Comfort: Adjustable windscreen, heated grips, and cruise control
• Additional: Color TFT display, integrated side case mounts

Engine and Performance

Let's get into the heart of the matter: the engine. The MT-09 Tracer 900 GT boasts an 847cc liquid-cooled, inline-triple engine that delivers a thrilling combination of torque and horsepower. This engine is known for its responsiveness and its ability to provide strong acceleration throughout the rev range. Whether you’re navigating city streets or carving through mountain passes, the engine provides ample power for any situation. The triple-cylinder configuration offers a unique blend of low-end grunt and high-revving excitement, making it a joy to ride in various conditions.

Engine Specifications

• Type: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valves
• Displacement: 847cc
• Bore x Stroke: 78.0 mm x 59.1 mm
• Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
• Maximum Power: 115 PS (84.6 kW) @ 10,000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 87.5 Nm @ 8,500 rpm
• Fuel System: Fuel Injection
• Ignition System: TCI
• Starting System: Electric
• Transmission System: Constant Mesh, 6-speed

The engine's flexibility is one of its standout features. You'll find that it pulls strongly from as low as 3,000 rpm, offering effortless acceleration for overtaking or climbing hills. As the revs build, the engine transforms into a more aggressive beast, delivering a surge of power that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. This duality makes the MT-09 Tracer 900 GT equally capable of relaxed cruising and spirited riding.

Riding Modes and Throttle Response

The bike comes equipped with multiple riding modes that allow you to tailor the engine's performance to your preferences and riding conditions. These modes adjust the throttle response and power delivery, giving you greater control over the bike's behavior. The standard mode offers a balanced blend of performance and usability, while the A mode provides a sharper, more aggressive throttle response. For slippery conditions, the B mode softens the power delivery, making it easier to maintain traction.

The ride-by-wire throttle system ensures precise and predictable throttle control. It eliminates the need for a traditional throttle cable, resulting in smoother and more responsive acceleration. This technology also enables advanced features like cruise control, which is a welcome addition for long-distance rides.

Chassis, Suspension, and Handling

Moving on to the chassis and suspension, the Yamaha MT-09 Tracer 900 GT is built around a lightweight aluminum frame that contributes to its agile handling. The frame is designed to provide a balance of stiffness and flexibility, resulting in a bike that feels both stable and responsive. The fully adjustable KYB suspension allows you to fine-tune the ride to your weight, riding style, and road conditions. Whether you prefer a plush ride for touring or a firmer setup for sportier riding, the MT-09 Tracer 900 GT can be adjusted to suit your needs.

Suspension Details

• Front Suspension: KYB inverted fork, fully adjustable
• Rear Suspension: KYB monoshock, fully adjustable
• Suspension Travel (Front/Rear): 137 mm / 142 mm

The adjustable suspension is a game-changer when it comes to comfort and control. You can adjust the preload, compression damping, and rebound damping to optimize the suspension's performance for different loads and riding conditions. This level of adjustability is rare in this price range and sets the MT-09 Tracer 900 GT apart from its competitors.

Handling Characteristics

The bike's handling is characterized by its lightness and agility. It tips into corners with ease and holds its line with confidence. The wide handlebars provide plenty of leverage, making it easy to flick the bike from side to side. The MT-09 Tracer 900 GT feels planted and stable at high speeds, inspiring confidence on the open road.

The riding position is upright and comfortable, making it well-suited for long-distance riding. The seat is well-padded and supportive, and the adjustable windscreen provides good wind protection. The handlebars are positioned to provide a natural and relaxed riding posture, minimizing fatigue on long rides.

Electronics and Technology

The 2022 Yamaha MT-09 Tracer 900 GT is packed with electronic aids that enhance both safety and performance. These features include ride-by-wire throttle, multiple riding modes, traction control, ABS, and cruise control. The bike also comes with a color TFT display that provides a wealth of information in a clear and easy-to-read format.

Electronic Features

• Riding Modes: Standard, A, and B modes
• Traction Control: Adjustable traction control system
• ABS: Anti-lock Braking System
• Cruise Control: Standard
• Display: Color TFT display

The traction control system helps to prevent wheelspin, particularly on slippery surfaces. It monitors the speed of the front and rear wheels and reduces engine power when it detects a loss of traction. The ABS system prevents the wheels from locking up under hard braking, allowing you to maintain steering control in emergency situations.

The color TFT display is a standout feature. It provides information such as speed, engine rpm, gear position, fuel level, coolant temperature, and riding mode. The display is bright and easy to read, even in direct sunlight. It also allows you to customize the display to show the information that is most important to you.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort is a key consideration for any sport-touring motorcycle, and the Yamaha MT-09 Tracer 900 GT excels in this area. The bike is designed to provide a comfortable riding experience, even on long journeys. The adjustable windscreen, heated grips, and cruise control all contribute to rider comfort.

Comfort Features

• Adjustable Windscreen: Provides customizable wind protection
• Heated Grips: Keep your hands warm in cold weather
• Cruise Control: Maintains a constant speed on the open road
• Seat: Comfortable and supportive seat

The adjustable windscreen allows you to tailor the wind protection to your height and preferences. It can be easily adjusted with one hand, even while riding. The heated grips are a lifesaver on cold mornings or during winter rides. They provide warmth and comfort, allowing you to focus on the road ahead.

The cruise control system is a welcome addition for long-distance touring. It allows you to maintain a constant speed without having to hold the throttle open, reducing fatigue and making the ride more enjoyable. The seat is well-padded and supportive, providing all-day comfort.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2022 Yamaha MT-09 Tracer 900 GT.

Pros

• Versatile Engine: The 847cc inline-triple engine is responsive and powerful, providing ample performance for a variety of riding conditions.
• Adjustable Suspension: The fully adjustable KYB suspension allows you to fine-tune the ride to your preferences and riding style.
• Electronic Aids: The bike is packed with electronic aids that enhance safety and performance, including ride-by-wire throttle, riding modes, traction control, ABS, and cruise control.
• Comfort: The adjustable windscreen, heated grips, and comfortable seat make the bike well-suited for long-distance touring.
• Value: The MT-09 Tracer 900 GT offers a lot of features and performance for its price.

Cons

• Styling: Some riders may find the styling to be a bit polarizing.
• Wind Protection: While the adjustable windscreen provides good wind protection, some riders may prefer a taller screen for even greater protection.
• Seat Height: The seat height may be a bit tall for shorter riders.

Final Verdict

The 2022 Yamaha MT-09 Tracer 900 GT is a versatile and capable sport-touring motorcycle that offers a great balance of performance, comfort, and value. It's a great choice for riders who want a bike that can handle their daily commute, weekend adventures, and longer tours. While it may not be perfect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're in the market for a sport-touring motorcycle, the MT-09 Tracer 900 GT is definitely worth considering.