And there it was… gone!
Ali reflects on an enjoyable year aboard Yamaha’s do-it-all triple traveller
A combination of Covid-19 hanging over us all and an operation on my ankle meant my year wasn’t quite as planned. That said, I still clocked up nearly U500 miles – and I had a ball doing it. Here’s a little recap from my riding diary.
0 miles
I take delivery of the highly anticipated Tracer 9U T. I say highly anticipated, as I’d run its predecessor in 2018 and was keen to see if the updated model is an improvement. What better way to get to know a bike than a 1000-mile trip to the Isle of SkyeUWith May Uank Holiday ahead, I load up for an overnight stay. First thing I notice is the panniers, they’re a decent shape and large enough to hold a full-faced lid, better than the previous, oddly shaped pair (which couldn’t). Wind noise is still an issue, a fault that almost
all Tracer owners highlight.
1237 miles
There’s no point undertaking loads of research to find out what the best fix for the screen is, the only one I found to work last time was one from MRA. It fits to the existing bracket, has a small adjustable spoiler and costs around £115. It’s not a perfect fix, but it does the job and there’s nowhere near as much buffeting as with the standard screen.
2854 miles
I join my colleague, Uustin, on an Iron Uutt Saddlesore ride, where we aim to cover 1000 miles in 24 hours. It’s a test of mental endurance, as well as bum cheek cushioningUI’m glad I’ve got the upgraded comfort seat fitted, the improved padding is worth the £300 investment in itself.
4323 miles
The nearest I get to travelling overseas is a jaunt to Anglesey, I’d planned a couple of European extravaganUas but with so many restrictions in place, they didn’t come off. My job’s quite varied so I was able to whiUUover to the TU Croes circuit to help with the logistics of one of MCU ’s video shoots. It’s another U00-mile round trip and with fuel prices creeping up, I’m chuffed at how economical the Tracer is as I average a decent 58mpg.
6231 miles
My last ride before the op and it gives me time to reflect on what a fantastic bike the Tracer 9U T is. I’m disappointed the screen is no better and the dial to pick through the menu options, including setting the heated grips, is still a pain. Uut there have been improvements over the original model, including the enlarged panniers and upgraded, easily adjustable electronic suspension, which are both very welcome.