
Meet the MT-07
The Yamaha MT-07 has been the people’s champ of middleweight nakeds for years. The 2024 model keeps the winning formula: a compact chassis, approachable seat height, low weight, and that punchy 689cc parallel-twin that makes every throttle twist feel lively. If you want a bike that’s fun in the city and grins on a twisty back road, this is the one.

What’s new & tech at a glance
A big draw is the 5-inch color TFT display with switchgear that’s easy to use on the move. Pair your phone and you’ll get Yamaha’s Y-Connect features like call/text alerts and ride-log data, depending on region. Lighting is full LED, and pre-wiring makes adding the upshift-only quickshifter plug-and-play. No complicated ride modes or IMU here—just a clean, rider-focused setup.

The heart: CP2 engine
Yamaha’s “CP2” parallel-twin is the MT-07’s soul. With a 270° crank, it fires unevenly for V-twin-like character, tractable torque, and great engine braking. On paper, it’s a 689cc, liquid-cooled DOHC four-valve motor with 11.5:1 compression—numbers that translate into real-world drive from 3,000 rpm upward and a zingy top-end rush. Expect an eager, flexible powerband that flatters newer riders and still entertains veterans.

Power, torque, and weight (real-world feel)
In European trim the MT-07 produces 54.0 kW (73.4 hp) at 8,750 rpm and 67 Nm at 6,500 rpm. Fully fueled weight is a slim 184 kg, helping the bike feel light on its feet and easy to maneuver at parking-lot speeds or mid-corner. That generous midrange is why riders call it “torque-rich”—roll on and it goes, no drama.

Chassis, brakes & suspension
The steel diamond frame keeps things narrow and confidence-inspiring. Up front you get a 41 mm telescopic fork; the rear shock offers preload and rebound adjustment—handy for passengers or luggage. Stopping duty is handled by dual 298 mm front discs with ABS and a 245 mm rear disc. Tyres are the classic 120/70ZR17 front and 180/55ZR17 rear—plenty of sporty choices out there.

Ergonomics & everyday comfort
Seat height sits at about 805 mm (31.7 in), with a neutral bar-peg-seat triangle that suits a wide range of riders. The tank cut-outs make it easy to grip with your knees, while the slim mid-section helps shorter riders get feet down. Wind protection is minimal (naked life!), but a small flyscreen or touring screen add-on can tame highway air without dulling the bike’s agility.

On the road: city to canyons
In town, the MT-07’s light clutch and friendly fueling make commutes smooth. The engine’s shove means fewer shifts—just surf the midrange. On twisty roads it’s playful and flickable; point it and it responds. Braking power is strong and predictable. Suspension is set for everyday roads: comfortable with enough control for spirited riding. Track days? Sure, but its happy place is fast back roads and daily duty.

Ownership, range & price
With a 14 L tank and frugal twin, real-world range is solid for weekend loops. Service access is straightforward, and parts/aftermarket support is huge. In France, typical dealer pricing for the 2024 MT-07 was around €7,999, with an A2-friendly 35 kW version available. As always, local fees or promos can shift the final out-the-door number—check your dealer.

Accessories & easy upgrades
Yamaha offers a factory quickshifter (upshift-only), small windscreens, comfort seat, sliders, and luggage options. Popular aftermarket mods include slip-on exhausts, fork kits, and tail tidies. Keep it sensible if it’s a daily: a screen, crash protection, and USB/phone mount pair nicely with Y-Connect to make commuting slick. (Remember that louder isn’t always better on long rides.)

Rivals & who it suits
Cross-shoppers will look at Kawasaki’s Z650 (lighter, revvier), Honda’s CB650R (inline-four smoothness), and Aprilia’s Tuono 660 (sportier electronics). The MT-07 sits bang in the sweet spot: approachable pricing, strong torque, and a simple spec that lets you just ride. It suits new A2-to-full-license riders who want a bike to grow with—and experienced riders who value light weight and character over spec-sheet arms races.

Quick spec snapshot (for reference)
- Engine: 689cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin (CP2), 11.5:1 compression.
- Power/Torque (EU): 54.0 kW (73.4 hp) @ 8,750 rpm / 67 Nm @ 6,500 rpm.
- Wet weight: 184 kg (EU).
- Brakes: Dual 298 mm front discs, ABS.
- Seat height: 805 mm (31.7 in).
- Tank: 14 L.
About the Creator
Enjoyed the story? Support the Creator.
Subscribe for free to receive all their stories in your feed.
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.