2021 Yamaha MT-07 | First Look Review

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review

Since its launch in 2014, the Yamaha MT-07 has been quite the crowd-pleaser in the naked middleweight class, thanks to its wonderfully tractable yet wickedly fun parallel-twin engine, sporty handling and affordable pricing. This year, the 2021 Yamaha MT-07 is set to receive a styling and ergonomic update, larger front brake discs and a few Euro 5 spurred tweaks to the peppy parallel-twin engine. Note that the MSRP is still an approachable $7,699, too — a $100 increase above last year’s price tag.

The news of the 2021 Yamaha MT-07 comes shortly after the tuning-fork-brand announced a nearly complete overhaul to the popular Yamaha MT-09.

RELATED: 2021 Yamaha MT-07 Road Test Review

For the model year 2021, the 689cc liquid-cooled CP2 parallel-twin engine returns with some massaging, undoubtedly done to meet Euro 5 emissions standards. Mechanically, the engine is virtually identical to prior generations with its fun-loving 270-degree Crossplane Concept crankshaft design and 80mm bore and 68.6mm stroke. However, there are some notable upgrades.

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review

New to the party is a redesigned air intake, partially brought on by the aesthetic refresh and a new 2-into-1-exhaust system. Going hand-in-hand with those changes are updates to the ECU specifications and fuel injection settings, which Yamaha says have improved low-rpm throttle response. Hopefully, the FI updates have cured the throttle abruptness that we have noticed on past MT-07 generations. Also, new exhaust valve seats are introduced. Lastly, the six-speed gearbox is said to boast improved shifting feel due to the new cut angles in the dog gears.

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review

The Master of Torque styling is in its third-generation, and the MT-07 borrows heavily from its big brother, the 2021 Yamaha MT-09. Notable styling changes include revised bodywork throughout, with the most noticeable update to the all-new LED headlight. Importantly, LED turn signals are featured, ridding the MT-07 of its polarizing pumpkin-esque indicators. MSRP is $7,699, and three color choices are available: Storm Fluo, Matte Raven Black, and Team Yamaha Blue.

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review

Other aesthetic changes come in the form of its updated negative LCD instrument panel. While still an LCD readout, the 2021 MT-07’s dash appears to be far easier to read, benefitting from larger displays of the clock, gear indicator, trip/odometers and tachometer. Also, 10,000-12,000 rpm is indicated in red, which is shown in white on prior models.

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review

Ergonomically, the 2021 Yamaha MT-07 will encourage a more neutral, upright riding position with a new tapered handlebar that is 32mm wider and 19mm taller than before. For taller riders, this will surely open the cockpit up and increase comfort. Meanwhile, the approachable 31.7-inch seat height remains the same.

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review

What has not changed is the steel-trellis chassis and non-adjustable 41mm KYB fork with 5.1-inches of travel. In the rear, the single KYB shock featuring spring-preload and rebound damping adjustment and 5.1-inches of travel returns as well. With its 406-pound claimed wet weight, the MT-07 has always been nimble and accommodating for a variety of riders.

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review

Braking performance is not ignored either, as the front discs grow in size from 282mm to 298mm. ABS is still standard. 

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review

Lastly, high-quality Michelin Road 5 120/70 and 180/55 tires will be part of the package in 2021.

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review

We’re quite excited about the 2021 Yamaha MT-07, which is expected to hit dealers in January 2021 and can’t wait to put these changes to the test. Until then, feast your eyes on Yamaha’s updated MT-07.

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review

2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Review Photo Gallery:

2021 Yamaha MT-07 Specs:

Base Price: $7,699
Website: yamahamotorsports.com
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, parallel twin, DOHC, 4 valves per cyl.
Bore x Stroke: 80.0 x 68.6mm
Displacement: 689cc
Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated wet clutch
Final Drive: Chain
Wheelbase: 55.1 in.
Rake/Trail: 24.8 degrees/3.5 in.
Seat Height: 31.7 in.
Wet Weight: 406 lbs. (claimed)
Fuel Capacity: 3.7 gals.
MPG: 86 PON min. (avg) NA

1 COMMENT

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here