Motorcycle unveils sleeker design and ride-by-wire tech

You can recognize the new Yamaha MT-07 at first glance. It's still edgy and distinctive, but the new design clearly sets it apart from the previous version. The small, aggressively styled front lights are integrated into an element resembling a mask, and the very modernly drawn fuel tank will surely attract attention on the street. Although the styling was a strong point of the Yamaha MT-07 before, despite significant changes, it remains a highlight.

Let's focus on the technical aspects. Although the MT-07 has many new features that might suggest an increase in weight by 10 pounds, in reality, the motorcycle weighs 403 pounds, which is 2 pounds lighter than before. Engineers have worked hard to reduce weight wherever possible. As a result, the bodywork parts, the wheels (which are unsprung mass), and some structural elements made of aluminum are lighter.

The suspension is also new, and in conjunction with the entire revised construction of the motorcycle, it should translate into better handling. The seating position has changed too—the handlebars are wider, positioned lower and further back, while the footpegs are now 0.4 inches lower. Despite these changes, the fuel tank retains its 3.7-gallon capacity. Meanwhile, an improved clutch means gear changes will be smoother, requiring 22% less force to press its lever.

Today's motorcycle, of course, cannot do without the right amount of electronics. In the case of the Yamaha MT-07, you get a 5-inch display with extensive options and the ability to connect a smartphone via the MyRide app. However, the more important new features are different. Most notably, the popular Yamaha naked bike now offers an electronically controlled throttle (ride-by-wire) and ride modes—Sport, Street, and Custom. The Custom mode allows you to set the engine map and traction control to your preferences.

The power remains supplied by the 690 cc CP2 engine. Yamaha has taken great care in the acoustic aspects. Both the engine operation, its components, and the bodywork have been designed to enhance the motorcycle's sound.

An important new feature is the optional Y-AMT automated transmission (Yamaha Automated Manual Transmission), which collaborates with the CP2 engine for the first time. Yamaha, like others, focuses on automation, but in practice, Y-AMT is closer to a DCT gearbox than Honda's new E-Clutch (in terms of operation, not technology). Yamaha's device can be operated manually with a hand switch for shifting gears, or alternatively, there is a fully automatic mode.