The Yamaha MT07 is THE BIKE OF THE DECADE

Summary

In this video, the host takes an in-depth look at the Yamaha MT-07, exploring its evolution, unique design, and impact on the naked bike market. From its 270-degree crossplane crankshaft engine to its accessibility for both new and experienced riders, the MT-07 has become a benchmark in the motorcycle world. The video also highlights its affordability, riding experience, and influence on competitors like Suzuki and Honda. With a humorous and engaging style, the host delves into why the MT-07 remains a favorite, despite growing competition in the mid-weight naked bike segment.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Yamaha MT-07, known as the 'Master of Torque,' has become one of the most popular motorcycles in its class, loved for its smooth power delivery and fun riding experience.
• 😀 Yamaha’s history in motorcycle production goes back to 1955, with key models like the XS650 and FZ750 leading to the development of the MT-07.
• 😀 The MT-07’s defining feature is its 270-degree parallel twin engine with a unique firing order, giving it a smooth and distinctive V-twin-like rumble and making it more accessible to a wide range of riders.
• 😀 Launched in 2014, the MT-07 was designed to fill the gap left by the Suzuki SV650, offering a fun, affordable middleweight naked bike with 75 horsepower and 50 ft-lbs of torque.
• 😀 The MT-07 offers excellent value, priced at just $7,200 when it first launched, making it an accessible option for newer riders looking for both performance and affordability.
• 😀 Over the years, the MT-07 has evolved with updates like LED lighting, ABS, a TFT display, and improved KYB suspension, while keeping the same fun-to-ride character.
• 😀 The MT-07's success has influenced other manufacturers to release similar bikes, including the Suzuki GSX-8S, Honda Hornet 750, and Kawasaki Z650, which all adopt similar engine configurations and designs.
• 😀 The 270-degree parallel twin engine of the MT-07 gives it a smooth, linear power delivery, especially in the lower RPM range, and enhances its ability to deliver predictable throttle response.
• 😀 Despite being a relatively budget-friendly bike, the MT-07 stands out for its overall riding experience, which is often considered better than its competitors in terms of engagement and fun.
• 😀 The MT-07’s popularity and impact have helped to revitalize the naked bike category, pushing Yamaha’s rivals to innovate and offer their own takes on the formula, creating a crowded but exciting market.

Q & A

What makes the Yamaha MT-07 unique in the naked bike category?

The Yamaha MT-07 stands out for its 689cc parallel twin engine with a 270-degree cross-plane crankshaft, which provides a smooth and linear power delivery, mimicking the sound and feel of a V-twin engine. This engine design offers improved throttle response and accessibility, making the MT-07 engaging for both new and experienced riders.

How did Yamaha's history in motorcycle production influence the MT-07?

Yamaha's long history in motorcycle production, starting in 1955, laid the groundwork for the MT-07. Notable predecessors, such as the XS650 and FZ750, helped refine Yamaha's engineering expertise. The MT-07 incorporates elements of Yamaha's sportbike legacy, particularly the R1's cross-plane crankshaft technology, into a more affordable and accessible naked bike.

What were some of the early design challenges Yamaha addressed when developing the MT-07?

Yamaha needed to create a middleweight naked bike that was affordable, fun, and approachable for a wide range of riders. This meant balancing power with accessibility, which is why the MT-07 uses a 689cc engine that offers 75 horsepower and 50 foot-pounds of torque, making it fun yet not too powerful for beginners or inexperienced riders.

What is the significance of the 270-degree cross-plane crankshaft in the MT-07's engine?

The 270-degree cross-plane crankshaft design is key to the MT-07’s distinctive engine characteristics. It creates an uneven firing order, which results in reduced vibrations and improved power delivery, especially at lower RPMs. This design makes the bike feel smoother and more predictable, while also giving it a unique, rumbling exhaust note similar to a V-twin engine.

How has the Yamaha MT-07 evolved since its launch in 2014?

Since its 2014 debut, the MT-07 has received several updates. The most notable improvements include the addition of KYB suspension, a TFT display, LED lighting, and ABS. These updates have enhanced the bike’s performance and modern appeal while maintaining its fun and approachable nature. However, the MT-07 has not undergone drastic changes, which has allowed it to retain its core identity.

What are some of the key differences between the MT-07 and its competitors, like the Suzuki GSX-8S or the Honda Hornet 750?

While the MT-07 remains focused on affordability and accessibility, competitors like the Suzuki GSX-8S and Honda Hornet 750 offer more advanced features, such as bi-directional quick shifters, TFT displays, and multiple ride modes. However, the MT-07 maintains its edge by being more accessible to new riders and offering a more straightforward, fun-to-ride experience at a lower price point.

What role did the MT-07 play in the revival of the naked bike segment?

The MT-07 played a pivotal role in revitalizing the naked bike market by offering an affordable, fun, and accessible alternative to sportbikes. Its success inspired other manufacturers, such as Suzuki and Honda, to develop their own middleweight naked bikes with similar configurations. The MT-07's balance of power, price, and usability set a new benchmark in the segment.

Why is the MT-07 considered a bike that can appeal to both beginner and experienced riders?

The MT-07's accessible power delivery, light weight (under 400 pounds), and forgiving nature make it an excellent choice for new riders. At the same time, its engaging handling and smooth engine response keep it exciting for more experienced riders who want a fun, yet manageable bike for everyday use or weekend rides.

What improvements were made to the MT-07 for the 2023 model year?

The 2023 MT-07 features several improvements, including a more refined KYB suspension, adjustable rear shocks, a new TFT display, and LED lighting. These updates bring the MT-07 more in line with current technological standards, while maintaining the bike’s core characteristics of simplicity, fun, and accessibility.

How does the MT-07 compare to the Yamaha R7, which uses the same 689cc engine?

While the MT-07 and Yamaha R7 share the same 689cc engine, the R7 is geared more toward sport riding with its full-fairing, aggressive styling, and focus on track performance. The MT-07, on the other hand, is more versatile, offering an upright riding position and a lighter, more accessible feel that is better suited for everyday riding and casual enthusiasts.