RiDE (UK)

Yamaha MT-07

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In 2014 Yamaha boldly changed middleweig­ht tack, killing off their flagging four-cylinder XJ6 and FZ6 roadsters and introducin­g the all-new MT-07. It boasted a new, original 689cc parallel twin in a unique backbone-style steel frame, screaming youthful confidence with its aggressive styling and bright, bold paint-schemes.

Less powerful than the four-cylinder bikes it replaced, but lighter, gruntier, more characterf­ul and more affordable than any of its twin-cylinder rivals, it quickly proved to be an enormous sales success for Yamaha. More than 15,000 were sold in the first 10 months and within two years the MT-07 had grown several relations including the stunt-style MT-07 Moto Cage, the retro XSR700 and the practical all-rounder Tracer 700. Yamaha’s recent ‘T7’ concept virtually guarantees a towering adventure sibling within the next six months, too, filling a Ténéré-shaped hole in the firm’s range. The light, punchy, agile MT-07 appears to be an ideal starting point.

SPEC Price £6239 Engine 689cc 8v dohc parallel twin, l/c Power 74bhp @ 9000rpm Torque 50lb.ft @ 6500rpm Transmissi­on 6-speed, chain Chassis Steel backbone Front suspension 41mm forks, 130mm travel Rear suspension Monoshock, adjustable preload Front brakes 282mm discs, four-piston calipers Rear brake 245mm disc, single-piston caliper Front tyre 120/70 ZR17 Rear tyre 180/55 ZR17 Wheelbase 1400mm Rake/trail 24.8°/90mm Seat height 805mm Kerb weight 182kg Fuel capacity 14 litres

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