The Yamaha MT-07 has long been a standout in the world of middleweight motorcycles, offering a compelling combination of performance, design, and affordability. Since its debut in 2014, this naked roadster has evolved to become one of Yamaha’s most iconic models. In this article, we delve into the Yamaha MT-07’s launch details, specifications, design, safety features, engine performance, technology, efficiency, pricing, mileage, and its rich heritage.
Yamaha MT-07 Launch Details
The Yamaha MT-07 was first introduced in 2014 as part of Yamaha’s “Masters of Torque” series. Known as the FZ-07 in North America until 2017, the bike quickly gained popularity for its versatility and affordability. Over the years, Yamaha has continued to refine the MT-07 with updates to its engine, design, and technology. The latest 2025 model represents the pinnacle of this evolution, featuring advanced electronics and a redesigned frame.
In India, the MT-07 is expected to launch soon as part of Yamaha’s premium lineup. It will compete with rivals like the Kawasaki Z650, Honda CB650R, and Triumph Trident 660. The anticipated price is around ₹7.5 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking a high-performance yet affordable motorcycle.
Yamaha MT-07 Specifications and Design
The Yamaha MT-07 is powered by a 689cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin CP2 engine with a crossplane crankshaft. This engine produces approximately 74 bhp at 9,000 rpm and 68 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. Its lightweight design—just 182 kg wet—contributes to nimble handling and impressive agility.
The design philosophy of the MT-07 is rooted in minimalism and aggression. The 2025 model features a stripped-back aesthetic with a minimalist LED headlight inspired by Yamaha’s “Dark Side of Japan” styling theme. The muscular fuel tank, wide handlebars, raked tail section, and compact exhaust further enhance its streetfighter appeal.
Yamaha MT-07 Safety Features
Safety is a key focus for the Yamaha MT-07. It comes equipped with dual-channel ABS as standard, ensuring confident braking in all conditions. The braking system includes twin 298mm discs at the front with radially mounted calipers and a single 245mm disc at the rear.
Additionally, the bike features an assist-and-slipper clutch to prevent wheel lock-up during aggressive downshifting. The new model also introduces switchable traction control modes via Yamaha Ride Control (YRC), providing enhanced stability on various road surfaces.
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Yamaha MT-07 Engine and Performance
The heart of the Yamaha MT-07 is its CP2 engine—a masterpiece of engineering that balances power and efficiency. With its 270-degree crankshaft design, the engine delivers linear torque across the rev range, making it ideal for both city commutes and spirited rides on winding roads.
The six-speed gearbox ensures smooth shifts, while fuel injection settings are optimized for precise throttle response. The bike’s top speed is approximately 120 mph (193 km/h), making it one of the fastest in its segment.
Yamaha MT-07 Technology and Features
The 2025 Yamaha MT-07 boasts cutting-edge technology aimed at enhancing rider experience. A new five-inch TFT display offers two customizable screen modes—Street and Touring—providing essential information like speed, gear position, and fuel level at a glance. Smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth allows riders to receive notifications and access navigation on the go.
Yamaha’s Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) ensures seamless power delivery while enabling advanced electronic aids like customizable throttle maps and traction control levels. Optional features include a quick-shifter for clutchless gear changes.
Yamaha MT-07 Efficiency and Practicality
Despite its sporty nature, the Yamaha MT-07 is surprisingly practical for everyday use. Its lightweight frame and compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The suspension setup—41mm telescopic forks at the front and a link-type rear monoshock—offers a comfortable ride without compromising handling.
With a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters and an estimated mileage of around 22 km/l (depending on riding conditions), the MT-07 strikes an excellent balance between performance and efficiency.
Yamaha MT-07 Price and Availability
The global success of the Yamaha MT-07 can be attributed to its competitive pricing. In international markets like Europe and North America, it is priced around £6,199 or $8,200 respectively. For India, where it is expected to launch soon, an ex-showroom price of ₹7–7.5 lakh positions it as an affordable alternative to premium middleweight bikes.
Availability will include multiple color options like Cyan Storm and Matte Black to cater to diverse rider preferences.
Yamaha MT-07 Mileage
One of the standout aspects of the MT-07 is its fuel efficiency—a rarity in high-performance motorcycles. Riders can expect an average mileage of approximately 20–22 km/l under mixed riding conditions. This makes it an economical choice for long-distance touring as well as daily commutes.
Yamaha MT-07 Heritage and Evolution
The Yamaha MT-07 has come a long way since its inception in 2014. Initially designed as an entry-level middleweight bike for enthusiasts seeking performance without breaking the bank, it quickly became a bestseller worldwide.
Over the years, significant updates have included improved suspension (2018), enhanced electronics (2021), and redesigned aesthetics (2025). Despite these changes, the core philosophy remains unchanged: delivering unmatched value through a perfect blend of power, comfort, and technology.
The MT series itself traces its roots back to iconic models like the RD350 two-stroke twins that defined Yamaha’s performance legacy in the ’70s and ’80s. Today’s MT-07 carries forward this rich heritage while embracing modern innovations.