The Yamaha MT-07 is a middleweight naked bike powered by a 689cc parallel twin. Whether it is your first big bike or your daily commuter, low-speed drops happen: in driveways, in parking lots or the first time someone forgets to put the kickstand down. Frame sliders and a few smart guards make those moments far less expensive.
This guide covers the crash protection that makes the most sense on the MT-07 (and FZ-07), from frame sliders to axle sliders, radiator guards and engine covers.
MT-07 vs FZ-07: Same Bike, Different Name
In the US, the MT-07 was sold as the FZ-07 for its early model years before Yamaha adopted the global MT-07 name. Mechanically, it's the same platform with the 689cc CP2 parallel twin. The bike received bodywork updates over the years, so always check the model years listed for any protection part.
Frame Sliders for the MT-07
Frame sliders are the most searched MT-07 protection part. They bolt into the engine mounting points and stick out just enough to touch the ground first in a low-side slide, protecting the frame, engine covers and tank.
How to choose MT-07 frame sliders:
- Fitment by year: the mounting points are similar across many years, but bodywork changes can affect clearance.
- Slider length: longer sliders protect more but are more likely to catch and flip the bike on rough ground.
- Replaceable pucks: the puck wears in a slide and should be replaced afterwards.
Not sure if sliders or full crash bars suit your riding? Our crash bars vs frame sliders guide explains the trade-offs.
Axle Sliders: The Cheapest Protection You Can Buy
When an MT-07 goes down, the fork bottoms, front brake caliper and rear swingarm often grind along the pavement. Axle sliders thread through the axles and take that contact instead. They're simple to install and cost far less than a fork leg or caliper.
Our front and rear axle crash protectors for the MT-07 / FZ-07 (2014 to 2023) mount on the front fork axle and the rear swingarm axle. Combined with frame sliders, they give you front-to-rear protection in a slide.
Radiator Guard
Like most naked bikes, the MT-07 leaves its radiator largely exposed, especially at the sides. Gravel and road debris can bend the fins or damage the core. Our side radiator guard panels for the MT-07 / FZ-07 are a pair of ABS covers that mount to the left and right sides of the radiator. If you're worried about cooling with radiator protection, read our radiator guard guide.
Engine Cover and Coolant Tank Cover
The engine side cases are often the next part to touch the ground after the sliders. Two covers worth knowing about:
- engine cover for the MT-07 / FZ-07 (2014 to 2021), which shields the engine case from road debris and impacts;
- coolant tank cover for the MT-07 / FZ-07 (2014 to 2021), a shaped ABS panel that hides the stock coolant expansion tank for a cleaner look.
Small Finishing Parts
- Frame hole cover caps for the MT-07 keep dirt and water out of the frame.
- Passenger peg hole cover plates clean up the rear if you've removed the passenger pegs.
- A throttle body cover plate cleans up the throttle body area without touching any mechanical parts.
- Bar-end mirrors are popular on the MT-07 for the look. Check local mirror laws first.
Comfort and Style Add-Ons
- A windshield deflector for the MT-07 (2021 to 2027) takes some pressure off your chest on the highway.
- The front fairing winglets spoiler kit (2021 to 2024) gives the front end a sharper look. Curious whether they do anything? See our winglets explained guide.
Recommended MT-07 Protection Kits
New rider kit
Frame sliders, axle sliders and a radiator guard. This combination covers the most common drop and slide damage for a small budget.
Daily rider kit
Add engine covers and frame hole caps for extra protection against road grime and minor knocks.
Track day kit
Frame sliders, axle sliders and engine covers. Check your track day organizer's rules for required protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need frame sliders on an MT-07?
They're strongly recommended, especially for newer riders. A low-speed drop without sliders can damage the tank, frame, radiator side and engine covers.
Do MT-07 sliders fit the FZ-07?
Many do, because the two share the same platform. Always check the years listed on the product.
Are axle sliders worth it on an MT-07?
Yes. They're inexpensive and protect the forks, caliper and swingarm, which are costly to replace.
See all our Yamaha MT-07 parts and accessories.