Friday bike

Now and again a new bike comes along that catches my eye.....

Yamaha MT-07 Tracer

The Tracer is a 'sports touring' version of the MT-07, similar to the MT-09 based Tracer. (I think the MT-07 is called the FJ-07 in the US). I like how it marries together the running gear of a sports bike with the riding position of an adventure sports.

Judging by the pictures on their website one being ridden through mountains with pillion and panniers,  Yamaha are clearly pitching it as a capable tourer with handling suitable for winding roads.

I really like the look of this bike, and if it's priced appropriately, should sell well. I particularly like the combined hand guards/ indicators/'wings'.

But the lack of rear mudguarding will ensure plenty of huggers will be available aftermarket! Just imagine how dirty the rear of the bike will get after a ride in the rain!

And don't start me on the lack of centrestand! If one doesn't become available as an option then it'll be off a lot of buyers' lists.

Technical specifications                                      

Engine

Engine type	2-Cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valves
Displacement	689cc
Bore x stroke	80.0 mm x 68.6 mm
Compression ratio	11.5 : 1
Maximum power	55.0 kW (74.8PS) @ 9,000 rpm
Limited power version	35.0 kW 7,500 rpm
Maximum Torque	68.0 Nm (6.93 kg-m) @ 6,500 rpm
Lubrication system	Wet sump
Clutch Type	Wet, Multiple Disc
Carburettor	Fuel Injection
Ignition system	TCI
Starter system	Electric
Transmission system	Constant Mesh, 6-speed
Final transmission	Chain
Fuel consumption	4.3 l/100km
CO2 emission	100 g/km

Chassis

Frame	Diamond
Front suspension system	Telescopic forks
Front travel	130 mm
Caster Angle	24.8º
Trail	90 mm
Rear suspension system	Swingarm, (link suspension)
Rear Travel	142 mm
Front brake	Hydraulic dual disc, Ø 282 mm
Rear brake	Hydraulic single disc, Ø 245 mm
Front tyre	120/70 R17 M/C 58W (tubeless)
Rear tyre	180/55 R17 M/C 73W (tubeless)

Dimensions

Overall length	2,138 mm
Overall width	806 mm
Overall height	1,270 mm
Seat height	835 mm
Wheel base	1,450 mm
Minimum ground clearance	140 mm
Wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank)	196 kg
Fuel tank capacity	17.0 L
Oil tank capacity	3.0 L