Motorcycle specifications Yamaha MT-09 SP 900 2021 The truth of shadows

With a bigger, more powerful, more generous engine, the new MT-09 and its character are going to make life hard for the suspension. Especially since these have always struggled to keep pace with previous versions (particularly the first). It was partly to remedy this shortcoming that Yamaha developed an SP version.

The idea was kept and transposed to the 900. The recipe having proved satisfactory to Yamaha, the right ingredients were added. With a few extras, to raise the bar a little.

At first glance, the MT-09 SP is a special color. These deep, colorful hues are directly inspired by the R1-M. As with the R1-M, and new this year, the swingarm is stripped of all paint to proudly display its brushed, anodized aluminum. More "precious", the machine continues to differentiate itself from its sister with smoked brake fluid jars, a double-stitched seat, black handlebars and control levers, as well as darkened fork tubes.

Choosing an SP also means (above all?) choosing an MT-09 with a different kind of suspension. The 41 mm KYB fork isn't gold and black just for show: the darkness comes from the DLC coating, allowing the tubes to slide more smoothly in the fork pockets. For smoother, more responsive handling. Compression, preload and rebound adjustment - nothing new there.
At the rear, we're switching manufacturers to take advantage of the Öhlins touch. The monoshock should be much more rigorous with this component, which is also fully adjustable. A practical plus is the preload adjustment by means of an easily accessible remote knob.

when you see the MT-09 as standard, you'll quickly realize that it's full of electronics. Color TFT screen, IMU inertial unit, more advanced traction control, glide control, front wheel control, brake control, speed control..... on the SP. Yam has also added a cruise control that can be adjusted in 2 km/h increments. Why not? But who's going to stick to a set speed when the bike's just waiting to explode?

SP inflation is higher ( +500 euros) than on the standard MT-09 (+30 euros) compared to the 850 models it replaces. This is justified by the installation of cruise control plus swingarm and fork treatments. All other improvements are part of the original SP recipe. Buying these treats means putting an extra 1,500 euros on the table.

It won't be long before this machine is ready for battle, with greater confidence in its road performance. So much the better! It would be a shame not to take advantage of the 119 horsepower provided by its 889 cm3 3-cylinder engine. Need torque? The maxi delivers 9.5 mkg. Looking for a bit of a kick? The new MT-09 offers it to every scoundrel who ogles its miserable face*. Sensations? Just add another layer.

M.B- manufacturer's photos
* Miséroïde ???? Copyright "Les inconnus