2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP Specs & Review

The 2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP is a high-performance naked sport machine built around a charismatic three-cylinder engine. It’s aimed at riders who want middleweight agility with serious punch for twisty backroads, fast commutes, and weekend blasts. Here’s a clear look at the 2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP specs and how they translate to the road.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 4-valves, 3-Cylinder, DOHC
• Displacement: 890 cc
• Maximum power: 87.5 kW / 119.0 PS @ 10,000 rpm
• Maximum torque: 93.0 Nm / 68.6 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm
• Transmission: Constant Mesh, 6-speed; final drive: Chain
• Wet weight: 190 kg / 418.88 lbs
• Seat height: 825 mm / 32.48 in

Engine & Performance

At the core of the MT-09 SP is an 890 cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC triple that delivers a muscular 87.5 kW (119.0 PS) at 10,000 rpm and a strong 93.0 Nm at 7,000 rpm. In real-world riding, this translates to a flexible, eager midrange that shrugs off city traffic in higher gears and fires out of corners with satisfying thrust. The triple layout gives you the best of both worlds—revvy energy up top with meaty torque in the middle.

Fueling comes via Electronic Fuel Injection, paired with a TCI ignition system for crisp response. The constant mesh 6-speed gearbox works with a wet, multiple-disc clutch to keep shifts smooth and predictable, whether you’re slicing through urban streets or stretching its legs on the highway. Efficiency is respectable for a bike with this level of performance, with a listed 5.0 L/100 km (47.0 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 116 g/km.

Riders with A2 licenses aren’t left out: there’s an A2 Version restricted to 35.0 kW / 47.6 PS @ 6,000 rpm, and an A2 Version unrestricted at 70.0 kW / 95.2 PS @ 9,000 rpm, providing a clear progression path as experience grows.

Handling, Comfort & Yamaha MT-09 SP Seat Height

The MT-09 SP’s Diamond frame teams a 25º caster angle with 108 mm of trail and a 1,430 mm wheelbase, striking a tidy balance between flickable agility and mid-corner stability. Suspension is straightforward but effective: a telescopic fork up front with 130 mm (5.12 in) of travel and a link-type swingarm at the rear offering 122 mm (4.80 in). The setup supports confident cornering and absorbs urban bumps well enough for daily use.

The Yamaha MT-09 SP seat height is 825 mm (32.48 in). That’s manageable for average-height riders, offering a commanding view and good leverage over the front end. Shorter riders may find it a touch tall at parking-lot speeds, but the relatively slim 795 mm overall width and 190 kg wet weight help keep low-speed maneuvers predictable. Ground clearance is 140 mm (5.51 in), useful for spirited riding and uneven city streets.

Tyre sizes—120/70 ZR17 front and 180/55 ZR17 rear—are confidence-inspiring choices, providing a broad footprint and fast warm-up for aggressive cornering without sacrificing everyday usability.

Equipment & Features

Braking hardware is robust: hydraulic dual front discs at Ø 298 mm (11.73 in) and a hydraulic single rear disc at Ø 245 mm (9.65 in) deliver strong, consistent stopping performance. The bike runs Electronic Fuel Injection, a TCI ignition system, and a wet sump lubrication design—simple, proven components aligned with reliability and responsiveness.

Other practical touches from the 2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP specs include:

• Front suspension: Telescopic fork (130 mm travel)
• Rear suspension: Swingarm, link suspension (122 mm travel)
• Frame: Diamond
• Transmission: Constant Mesh, 6-speed; chain final drive
• Fuel tank capacity: 14 L (3.7 gal)
• Tyres: 120/70 ZR17 front, 180/55 ZR17 rear

Who Is the 2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP For?

This MT-09 SP targets riders who value a punchy triple, compact dimensions, and sharp handling. It’s ideal for experienced riders seeking an engaging naked that commutes without complaints and thrills on weekends. Newer riders can consider the A2-compliant versions (35.0 kW restricted or 70.0 kW unrestricted), which preserve the platform’s character while dialing back output to match skill level.

Torquepedia Verdict

As a Yamaha MT-09 SP review in a sentence: it’s a torque-rich, agile naked with serious real-world pace. The 890 cc triple’s 93.0 Nm midrange and 119.0 PS peak pair beautifully with measured geometry to create a bike that’s as happy carving backroads as it is slicing through urban congestion.

Strengths include the flexible engine, confidence-building chassis numbers, stout brakes, and sensible fuel economy. Potential drawbacks? The 825 mm seat height may challenge shorter riders, and the 14 L tank leans more toward sporty day rides than extended touring. Overall, in the middleweight naked class, it’s a compelling, well-rounded choice that rewards spirited riders without punishing them on the daily grind.

FAQ

• Is the 2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP good for beginners? With 87.5 kW (119.0 PS), the standard model is potent. However, A2-compliant versions are available: 35.0 kW restricted and 70.0 kW unrestricted, offering more approachable power for newer riders.

• What is the seat height of the 2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP? 825 mm (32.48 in).

• How heavy is the 2023 Yamaha MT-09 SP? Wet weight is 190 kg (418.88 lbs).

• What are the power and torque figures? Maximum power is 87.5 kW / 119.0 PS @ 10,000 rpm, and maximum torque is 93.0 Nm / 68.6 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm.