Yamaha MT-09 SP

The Yamaha MT-09 SP is the range-topping version of Yamaha’s flagship Hyper Naked triple, taking the standard bike’s addictive character and adding sharper equipment and a more premium finish throughout. It is built for riders who already know they want an MT-09 but are not prepared to settle for the base specification, and who want their bike to look as exclusive as it feels to ride.

It shares the standard bike’s formidable 890cc liquid-cooled triple, with a 78.0mm by 62.1mm bore and stroke, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, an 11.5 to 1 compression ratio and electronic fuel injection, producing 119PS (87.5kW) at 10,000rpm and 93Nm of torque at 7,000rpm through a six-speed gearbox, wet multiple-disc clutch and chain final drive, so the acceleration and characterful mid-range punch that define the MT-09 remain fully intact. Yamaha’s Y-AMT automated transmission is again available for riders who prefer clutchless changes without losing control over gear selection.

The same controlled-fill die-cast aluminium frame carries a 41mm KYB inverted fork, adjustable for preload and compression damping, and a fully adjustable horizontal rear shock, rolling on 120/70 front and 180/55 rear tyres, while twin 298mm front discs with four-piston calipers and a 245mm rear disc handle braking duties. At 194kg, just a kilogram heavier than standard, with a 1,430mm wheelbase and an 825.5mm seat height, the SP loses none of the standard bike’s light, agile feel, so nothing about the extra equipment compromises the way it handles.

Where it truly distinguishes itself is in its equipment: a full-colour five-inch TFT display offers five themes, including an SP-specific TRACK mode for days spent on circuit, while updated Emergency Stop Signalling triggers the hazard lights automatically under hard braking for extra visibility to following traffic, and integrated handlebar switches keep smartphone connectivity, navigation and riding modes close at hand. Fuel consumption of around 5.0 litres per 100km keeps running costs reasonable for a bike with this much performance, and it suits riders who want the ultimate MT-09 experience with genuine exclusivity built in. Discover the MT-09 SP at GT Motorcycles, your Yamaha dealer in Plymouth, with finance and test rides on offer for riders across Devon and Cornwall.