MT-09 SP
$12,299
*Product specifications and price may vary; this is an approximate reference.
Full Specifications
| Engine | 890cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder; 4 valves per cylinder |
| Displacement | 890cc |
| Power | 117 HP @ 10,000 rpm |
| Torque | 93 Nm / 69 lb-ft |
| Weight | 194 kg / 428 lbs |
| Seat Height | 825 mm / 32.5" |
| Fuel Capacity | 14L / 3.7 gal |
| Transmission | 6-speed with Gen-3 Quick Shift System |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Electronics
Rider Modes
Performance & Efficiency
- Top Speed
- 155 mph
- 0-60 mph
- 3.1 sec
Reliability & Ownership
Reliability The CP3 engine is widely regarded as one of the most reliable modern powerplants in motorcycling. Yamaha’s build quality on the SP trim is exceptional, with premium finishes that resist weathering better than the base model. Valve clearance intervals are generous at 26,600 miles (42,000 km), and the liquid-cooled triple is known for its ability to handle high-mileage abuse without oil consumption or mechanical failure.
Maintenance Oil and filter every 6,000 miles; Spark plugs every 12,000 miles; Major valve service every 26,600 miles.
Comfort & Ergonomics
The 2025 model features a more engaged, sporty riding position compared to earlier generations. The footpegs are moved slightly back and up, while the handlebars are lower, offering two adjustable positions. Despite the aggressive stance, the seat is supportive for mid-range touring, and the tank shape provides excellent knee grip. Heat management is superior for a naked bike, with the radiator ducting air away from the rider's legs effectively.
Overview
" The Triple Threat Masterpiece "
The 2025 Yamaha MT-09 SP represents the zenith of the 'Dark Side of Japan' philosophy. While the standard MT-09 is already a class-leader, the SP elevation introduces high-end componentry that transforms a great hooligan bike into a precision instrument. With the inclusion of Brembo Stylema calipers, a fully adjustable Öhlins rear shock, and a DLC-coated KYB front fork, the SP addresses the only historical criticism of the MT platform: its suspension. This bike isn't just about the addictive crossplane triple engine anymore; it's about a chassis that can finally keep up with that engine's relentless character. For 2025, Yamaha has also refined the aesthetics and ergonomics, making it more aggressive yet more intuitive. It bridges the gap between a daily commuter and a weekend track-day weapon with a level of polish that rivals European competitors costing thousands more.
WikiMoto Verdict
"Quite simply the best value-for-performance naked bike on the market today."
In-Depth Review
The Heart of the Beast: The CP3 Engine
At the core of the MT-09 SP is the legendary 890cc CP3 engine. This crossplane triple remains the gold standard for street-focused powerplants. It offers a unique character that combines the low-end grunt of a twin with the screaming top-end of an inline-four. For 2025, the fueling is smoother than ever, eliminating the ‘snatchy’ throttle response that plagued earlier iterations. The torque is immediate and ubiquitous; whether you are exiting a tight hairpin or merging onto a highway, the CP3 provides a surge of linear acceleration that is genuinely addictive. The acoustics have also been tuned via a revised airbox with three unequal-length intake ducts, creating an induction roar that makes the rider feel like they are part of the machine.
Precision Instruments: SP Handling
What separates the SP from the standard model is the ‘Special’ hardware. The 41mm KYB front forks are treated with a Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating for stiction-free movement, while the rear is handled by a gold-standard Öhlins shock with a remote preload adjuster. On the road, this translates to a ride that is firm yet incredibly communicative. The chassis no longer ‘pogoes’ under hard acceleration or dives excessively under heavy braking. Speaking of braking, the upgrade to Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers provides a level of bite and modulation usually reserved for superbikes. The feedback through the lever is surgical, allowing for confident trail-braking deep into corners. The lightweight ‘SpinForged’ wheels further enhance the agility, making side-to-side transitions feel effortless.
Silicon and Screens: Advanced Tech
The 2025 SP features a suite of electronics managed by a 6-axis IMU derived from the YZF-R1. This includes lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, and front-wheel lift control (wheelie control). The new 5-inch full-color TFT display is a massive step up, offering multiple themes including a dedicated ‘Track’ layout that highlights lap times and vital stats. One of the most underrated additions to the SP is the Smart Key system, allowing for keyless ignition and fuel cap access—a luxury touch that makes daily use much more convenient. The third-generation quickshifter is flawless, allowing for seamless up and downshifts even under light throttle loads, which is often a weak point for other systems.
Final Verdict
The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2025 is a rare machine that manages to be both a value proposition and a premium experience. It retains the ‘hooligan’ DNA that made the MT line famous but adds a layer of sophistication and control that allows expert riders to push their limits. While the styling remains polarizing, the performance is undeniable. It is a motorcycle that rewards every input with precision and character, making it perhaps the most well-rounded naked bike in the sub-liter category. If you want a bike that can commute on Monday and dominate a B-road on Sunday, the SP is the definitive choice.