The Yamaha MT-07 and MT-09 sit side by side in Yamaha's naked bike lineup, and choosing between them comes down to more than engine size. One is a lighter, simpler twin; the other is a triple with a full electronics package. Here is how the MT-07 vs MT-09 compare, using Yamaha's published US specifications.
Quick Answer
- Choose the MT-07 if you want a lighter, less expensive bike with a lower seat, for commuting, newer riders or relaxed back-road riding.
- Choose the MT-09 if you want more performance and a more complete electronics package, including an IMU, quickshifter and cruise control.
Specs Compared (2025 US models)
| MT-07 | MT-09 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 689cc inline twin | 890cc inline three |
| Wet weight | 403 lb | 425 lb |
| Seat height | 31.7 in | 32.5 in |
| Fuel capacity | 3.7 gal | 3.7 gal |
| MSRP (2025) | $8,599 | $10,799 |
Source: Yamaha Motor USA 2025 specifications. Yamaha US does not publish horsepower figures.
Engine and Performance
The MT-07 uses Yamaha's 689cc CP2 parallel twin, the same engine family found in the Ténéré 700. In Motorcycle.com's dyno test of the 2025 MT-07, it produced 65.1 hp and 46.3 lb-ft at the rear wheel.
The MT-09 uses an 890cc three-cylinder engine (CP3), introduced with the 2021 redesign. Rider Magazine reported Yamaha's claimed figures for the 2024 model as 117 hp and 69 lb-ft. In other words, the MT-09 offers a big step up in performance over the MT-07.
Weight and Ergonomics
The MT-07 is 22 lb lighter (403 lb vs 425 lb wet) and its seat is 0.8 in lower (31.7 in vs 32.5 in). For shorter riders or newer riders, that lower seat and lighter weight make the MT-07 easier to manage at low speed.
For 2024, Yamaha revised the MT-09's riding position with a lower handlebar and footpegs moved back, both adjustable to two positions.
Electronics
MT-07 (2025)
The 2025 redesign brought the MT-07 its first ride-by-wire throttle, selectable ride modes, switchable traction control and a 5-inch TFT screen. ABS is standard. A quickshifter is available as an accessory.
MT-09 (2025)
The MT-09 has a six-axis IMU that enables lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, wheelie control and brake control, plus ride modes, an up/down quickshifter, cruise control and a 5-inch TFT screen.
Chassis
The 2025 MT-07 received a new steel frame, a 41mm KYB inverted fork and radial-mount brakes. The MT-09 uses an aluminum frame, which was redesigned for 2021.
Price
The 2025 MSRP gap is $2,200: $8,599 for the MT-07 and $10,799 for the MT-09. For that difference, the MT-09 adds a third cylinder, an IMU-based electronics package, a standard quickshifter and cruise control.
Protecting Either Bike
Both are naked bikes, with radiators and engine covers exposed in a fall. Our guides cover the details: MT-07 crash protection and MT-09 crash protection.
MT-07
- Front and rear axle crash protectors (2014 to 2023)
- Windshield deflector, an ABS panel that mounts above the headlight
- Side radiator guard panels
MT-09
- Frame crash protectors for the current CP3 generation
- Front and rear axle crash sliders
- Front windshield wind deflector
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MT-09 too much for a new rider?
That depends on the rider, but the MT-07 is lighter, lower and less powerful, which makes it the more forgiving choice for most newer riders.
Which is better for commuting?
The MT-07 is lighter, cheaper and has a lower seat. The MT-09 adds cruise control, which helps on longer highway commutes.
Were they always called MT-07 and MT-09 in the US?
No. Yamaha sold them in the US as the FZ-07 and FZ-09 before renaming them MT-07 and MT-09 for the 2018 model year.
Shop MT-07 accessories and MT-09 accessories.