The 2025 Yamaha MT-09 is back with a fresh face, upgraded suspension, and Yamaha’s legendary CP3 triple at its heart. This test ride review by Liam Simm puts it through its paces on UK roads to see if the hooligan streetfighter has finally matured – or if it’s still the wild one of the middleweight naked class.

Ridden on B-roads, through town, and with a proper eye on day-to-day usability, this is a hands-on look at how the MT-09 really performs in Britain.

Summary

• Engine 890cc CP3 Triple
• Power 117 hp @ 10,000 rpm
• Torque 93 Nm @ 7,000 rpm
• Weight 193 kg (wet)
• Fuel Capacity 14 L
• Price £10,100 (UK OTR)

Buying Advice: Who is this bike for? Who should skip it?

The 2025 MT-09 is perfect for riders who want a lightweight, flickable naked bike with a characterful engine and everyday usability. It thrives in the UK on twisty B-roads, can handle commuting, and still feels playful when you push it. If you’re after refinement or touring comfort straight out of the box, rivals like the Triumph Street Triple RS or Kawasaki Z900 might be better choices.

Design & Aesthetics

Yamaha have reworked the front end, adding new plastics and DRLs that make the MT-09 look more purposeful than before. Some riders will love the bold wheel designs, others not so much – but the overall stance matches the hooligan personality of the bike. The tail unit is neater than the previous version, with covers that give it a more finished look.

If you want to personalise it further, Yamaha and the aftermarket offer plenty of add-ons. Check out our 2025 Yamaha MT-09 parts & accessories to make it yours.

Engine & Performance

The CP3 triple remains the beating heart of the MT-09. It balances low-end grunt with smooth high-rev performance, making it versatile for both city and country roads. Even in higher gears, it pulls strongly – exactly the kind of behaviour that makes it so loved by UK riders.

Suspension & Handling

The 2025 updates bring a stiffer headstock and revised brackets for improved chassis response. Fully adjustable 41 mm forks up front and a linkage-type rear shock make the MT-09 more planted than older models, especially when pushed on bumpy roads. It’s not as refined as the SP model, but still a massive improvement over the earlier “pogo stick” feel.

Brakes

Brembo’s new master cylinder adds sharper feedback to the twin 298 mm discs. For most riders, the stopping power is more than enough – progressive, confidence-inspiring, and reliable.

Sound & Acoustic Amplifiers

Modern emissions rules limit exhaust character, but Yamaha’s acoustic amplifiers help channel intake and exhaust notes to the rider. It’s not dramatic, but it adds a little character. If you want more, an aftermarket system will be the natural upgrade.

Ownership, Running Costs & Reliability

Servicing is every 6,000 miles, with valve checks at longer intervals. The MT-09 comes with a 2-year Yamaha warranty, extendable in the UK. Fuel economy averages 50 mpg, giving around 150 miles of real-world range from the 14-litre tank. Resale values are typically strong, with the MT range enjoying a loyal following. Comfort is acceptable for commuting and weekend blasts, but touring riders may want to add a screen and luggage.

How the 2025 Yamaha MT-09 compares to its rivals?

Against the Triumph Street Triple RS, the Yamaha is less refined but more playful – the Street is sharper on track, the MT more fun on the road. Compared with the Kawasaki Z900, the MT-09 feels lighter and more characterful, though the Z900 offers better value on paper. Suzuki’s GSX-8S is smoother and beginner-friendly, but lacks the sheer excitement of Yamaha’s CP3.

Verdict

The 2025 Yamaha MT-09 hasn’t lost its edge – it’s still the hooligan of the middleweight naked class, just with a more polished package. It looks sharper, rides better, and still makes you grin every time you twist the throttle. For UK riders who want a playful yet practical naked bike, it’s hard to ignore.