When it comes to choosing a motorcycle, the Yamaha MT-07 often comes up in conversations. It’s known for its affordability, versatility, and performance. But is the MT-07 a bad bike? In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics to provide a comprehensive Yamaha MT-07 review. We’ll explore its features, weigh its pros and cons, and compare it to its competitors to give you a clear picture of where it stands in the motorcycle world.
Overview of the Yamaha MT-07
The Yamaha MT-07, introduced in 2014, quickly became popular among both new and experienced riders. It is part of Yamaha’s MT (Master of Torque) lineup, which is designed to offer a thrilling riding experience. As a middleweight bike, it strikes a balance that appeals to a broad range of riders, from novices to seasoned motorcyclists. Its rise in popularity can be attributed to its blend of performance, design, and practicality, making it a staple in Yamaha’s lineup.
The MT-07’s appeal extends beyond just its specifications; it embodies a philosophy of providing a dynamic yet accessible riding experience. Yamaha has crafted a bike that caters to the emotional thrill of riding while ensuring that it remains approachable for those looking to step up from smaller displacement bikes. The MT-07’s success is a testament to Yamaha’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of riders while maintaining a high standard of quality and innovation.
Key Features
- Engine and Performance: The MT-07 is powered by a 689cc parallel-twin engine, delivering a punchy 74 horsepower. This engine configuration offers a smooth torque curve, making it enjoyable for both city commuting and spirited rides on winding roads. The engine’s crossplane philosophy is designed to maximize linear torque development, providing a thrilling yet predictable power delivery that enhances rider confidence. This makes the MT-07 not only a great city bike but also a capable machine for more adventurous rides.
- Design and Aesthetics: The MT-07 features a modern, aggressive look. Its minimalist bodywork, sharp lines, and LED lighting give it a distinctive appearance that appeals to many riders. The naked bike design emphasizes the mechanical elements, giving it a raw, purposeful look that many enthusiasts appreciate. Additionally, its compact form factor makes it maneuverable and less intimidating for newer riders, without sacrificing the visual impact that attracts more experienced motorcyclists.
- Handling and Comfort: With its lightweight frame and well-balanced design, the MT-07 is known for its agile handling. The comfortable seat and upright riding position make long rides less taxing. Its compact dimensions and low seat height make it accessible and easy to manage, even in challenging traffic conditions. This combination of comfort and agility ensures that the MT-07 is not only practical but also fun to ride, whether on a daily commute or a weekend escape.
- Braking System: Equipped with dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc, the MT-07 provides reliable stopping power. ABS is available in newer models, adding an extra layer of safety. This braking setup ensures that the bike can handle emergency stops with composure and confidence, a critical feature for new and experienced riders alike. The MT-07’s braking system is designed to inspire trust, allowing riders to enjoy their journey without undue worry.
- Fuel Efficiency: One of the standout features of the MT-07 is its fuel efficiency. Riders report getting around 50 miles per gallon, making it a cost-effective option for daily commuting. This efficiency is not just a boon for the wallet but also makes the MT-07 an environmentally friendlier choice compared to less efficient bikes. Its impressive range between fill-ups allows riders to focus on enjoying their rides rather than constantly planning for fuel stops.
Yamaha MT-07 Review: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordability: The MT-07 is competitively priced, offering great value for the performance and features it provides. It’s often recommended as a first bike or for those looking to upgrade without breaking the bank. The combination of its initial purchase price and low operating costs makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious riders. Additionally, its strong resale value means that the MT-07 remains a wise investment in the long run.
- Versatile Performance: Whether you’re navigating city streets or enjoying weekend rides in the countryside, the MT-07 adapts well to different environments. Its engine characteristics and chassis design provide a balance of power and agility, making it suitable for a variety of riding styles. This versatility is one of the reasons the MT-07 is loved by both commuters and enthusiasts who seek a bike that can do it all.
- Customizability: The MT-07 has a strong aftermarket support. Riders can easily find parts and accessories to personalize their bikes, from exhaust systems to cosmetic enhancements. This customization potential allows owners to tailor the bike to their personal tastes and riding needs, enhancing the sense of ownership and connection with their machine. Whether it’s improving performance or simply adding a personal touch, the MT-07’s modifiability is a significant draw for many riders.
- User-Friendly: Its lightweight design and manageable power make it a friendly choice for new riders while still satisfying more experienced bikers. The intuitive handling and forgiving nature of the MT-07 make it an excellent platform for learning and growing as a rider. Even seasoned bikers appreciate the MT-07 for its fun factor and ease of use, making it a versatile choice for a wide audience.
Cons
- Suspension: Some riders find the stock suspension too soft, especially for aggressive riding. This can affect handling performance on twisty roads or when carrying a passenger. For those who push the bike’s limits, upgrading the suspension can significantly enhance the MT-07’s capability. However, for everyday riding, the stock setup is generally adequate, offering a comfortable and compliant ride.
- Wind Protection: The minimalistic design means limited wind protection. This might not be ideal for those planning long highway trips. Riders who frequently travel at high speeds or on highways may find the wind fatigue to be a challenge. Fortunately, there are aftermarket solutions available, such as windshields and fairings, which can improve aerodynamics and rider comfort.
- Seat Comfort: While the seating position is generally comfortable, the seat itself can become uncomfortable on longer rides. This is a common issue with many bikes in this category, and aftermarket options are available to address it. Investing in a custom seat or seat pad can transform the MT-07 into a more comfortable touring machine, making long-distance rides more enjoyable.
Real-World Experiences
Many riders appreciate the MT-07 for its versatility and reliability. Owners report minimal issues and praise its low maintenance costs. Here are a few real-world experiences from MT-07 riders:
- City Commuter: “I’ve been using my MT-07 for daily commuting, and it’s perfect. The bike is nimble, easy to park, and saves me a lot on fuel.” The lightweight nature and slim profile make it ideal for weaving through traffic, while the reliable engine ensures that it performs consistently day after day.
- Weekend Warrior: “For weekend rides, the MT-07 is an absolute blast. It’s agile and responsive, especially in the twisties.” The bike’s engaging ride and predictable handling make it a joy on winding roads, allowing riders to explore and enjoy the limits of what their machine can do.
- Long-Distance Rider: “I’ve taken my MT-07 on several long trips. While I love the bike, I had to invest in a better seat for comfort.” This highlights the MT-07’s capability for longer journeys, provided a few comfort tweaks are made. With the right modifications, many owners find it to be a fantastic all-rounder that can handle extended adventures.
Comparing the MT-07 to Its Rivals
The MT-07 competes with several other middleweight bikes in the market. Here’s how it compares to a few of its rivals:
- Kawasaki Z650: Both bikes offer similar performance, but the Z650 has a slightly sportier feel. However, the MT-07 often wins in terms of comfort and fuel efficiency. The Z650’s sharper handling might appeal to those looking for a more aggressive ride, but the MT-07’s blend of comfort and practicality makes it a more versatile choice for everyday use.
- Honda CB650R: The CB650R offers more horsepower but at a higher price point. The MT-07 remains a more budget-friendly option. While the CB650R might cater to those seeking top-end performance, the MT-07’s accessible price and running costs make it a more appealing option for a wider audience.
- Suzuki SV650: The SV650 is another strong competitor, with similar performance and price. The choice often comes down to personal preference in styling and brand loyalty. Both bikes have their own unique charm, but the MT-07’s modern aesthetics and strong aftermarket support give it an edge in terms of customization and personalization.
Conclusion: Is the MT-07 A Bad Bike?
The Yamaha MT-07 is far from being a bad bike. Its combination of performance, affordability, and versatility makes it a solid choice for a wide range of riders. While it has some drawbacks, such as the suspension and wind protection, these are often minor and can be addressed with aftermarket modifications. The MT-07’s ability to cater to both new and experienced riders without compromising on fun or practicality is a testament to its thoughtful design.
For those seeking a reliable and enjoyable ride without spending a fortune, the MT-07 stands out as a compelling option. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, the MT-07 offers a rewarding experience that is hard to beat in its class. Its strong reputation and loyal following underscore its status as a beloved member of the motorcycle community, proving that it is anything but a bad bike.