‘Get it on fast and smooth road like the B660 and it reveals a whole new side’
‘Feed in the revs and the GT revels in being let off the leash’
Stratford I’ve done over an hour and a half in the saddle and I’m not feeling any discomfort at all. The seat has gained extra padding for 2018 and it’s very cosseting. But the screen is rubbish and even on its highest setting, the motorway miles reveal a bit of buffeting (I’m 6ft 2in), and not for the first time I’m left wishing for an extra few inches of extension.
While the M40 tests the GT’s touring credentials, the run from Stratford to Cirencester is ripe to test its sporting attitude and I’m having so much fun I have to force myself to stop at the Cotswold Diner. Despite being in the saddle for nearly three hours I’m not uncomfortable at all, and the fuel gauge is still showing loads left. On these smooth and fast corners the GT’s firmer suspension is right at home, though I can’t help but feel the Tracer’s handling has lost a bit of its edge. By extending the swingarm by 60mm for improved stability, Yamaha have made it a little less eager to turn. It’s not by much, but where the older model dropped on its side with minimal input, the new one feels like it needs a bit more encouragement. Approaching Witney the Tracer’s fuel light finally illuminates, which is a relief as I was starting to wonder if it had one, so it’s a quick splash and dash and I’m off towards Buckingham. During this run I find myself getting quite irritated by the quickshifter, which isn’t as slick as other units. It requires the revs to be over 7000rpm to perform a slick upshift and if you aren’t working the motor it’s generally best to use the clutch.
The Tracer’s main selling point, aside from its price, has always been that triple and throughout the MCN250 I’m constantly reminded how good it is. Gearbox aside, the sound, midrange and spirited top-end make it perfect for sports touring. But get it on fast and smooth road like the B660 and it reveals a whole new side.