Yamaha MT-09 SP 900 2024 — Specifications

What justifies spending close to €12,799 on a Yamaha MT-09 SP 900 when the standard version already gets the job done? The answer comes down to a few details — but significant ones. Yamaha has widened the gap between the two variants on this fourth generation, and the result clearly favors riders who like to clip apexes on weekends.

The big upgrade sits up front. The Brembo Stylema calipers, radially mounted on 298 mm discs, represent virtually the top of the Italian supplier's catalog for road use. Only the Stylema R units do better, but those are reserved for hypersports in the league of a Ducati Panigale V4 SP2. On a 194 kg roadster, it's a smart choice that delivers sharp, progressive bite — exactly what's needed to exploit the 119 horsepower from the 889 cc triple without second-guessing yourself on the brakes. The Brembo radial master cylinder completes the package. Against a Triumph Street Triple RS or a Kawasaki Z900 SE, the MT-09 SP clearly plays in a higher league when it comes to braking.

On the electronics side, the SP doesn't settle for the usual three riding maps. It adds four Track modes that unlock fine-tuning of traction control, two-level engine braking management, slide control, anti-wheelie, and even rear ABS deactivation. Everything is adjustable from the 5-inch TFT screen or via smartphone. For a roadster at this price, it's an arsenal worthy of a pure sportbike. The third-generation bi-directional quickshifter and cruise control serve as reminders that this machine can also devour tarmac on long rides. And for those wondering what the average fuel consumption of the Yamaha MT-09 SP 900 is, the CP3 triple remains reasonable despite its 93.2 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm, thanks to a bore-and-stroke ratio (78 x 62.1 mm) that favors mid-range efficiency.

The suspension steps up a notch without going full Öhlins. The rear shock is still entrusted to the Swedish specialist, adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound with 122 mm of travel. The 41 mm KYB inverted fork gets a DLC coating on the inner tubes and gold anodizing reminiscent of the "Icon Performance" livery, directly inspired by the R1-M. The springs are firmer, the settings revised. We would have liked to see Öhlins take charge of the front end as well, but Yamaha is keeping that card for potential future evolutions. The aluminum perimeter frame, 825 mm seat height, and height-adjustable footpegs create a committed riding position that suits average builds. The 14-liter tank limits range somewhat — the usual compromise in this segment.

A notable first for a Yamaha roadster: the Smart Key system does away with the physical key. The bike detects the transponder in the rider's pocket, and a switch handles starting as well as fuel cap locking. A welcome convenience in daily use. With its Bridgestone S23 tires in 120/70 and 180/55, brushed aluminum swingarm, and a claimed top speed of 220 km/h, the MT-09 SP targets a specific audience: the rider who pushes hard on the road, hits the occasional track day, and wants a chassis that matches the engine. What is the price of the Yamaha MT-09 SP 900 in France? At €12,799, it sits above a Street Triple R but below a Speed Triple 1200 RS, in a niche where few competitors offer as much standard equipment. For the experienced rider who refuses to choose between daily enjoyment and track thrills, this SP remains one of the best compromises on the market.