From our Old Bike Archives – Issue 119 – first published in 2025.
Ride impressions: Jim Scaysbrook. Photos: Sue Scaysbrook, Yamaha Motor Australia
A decade has passed since the launch of Yamaha’s highly-successful MT-07 parallel twin, and for that period it has been one of the best-selling bikes in Australasia. So it’s fitting that the new-for 2025 MT-07 has a bold new look, but there’s much more to this package.
The chassis is subtly revised, with a stronger asymmetrical swing arm, but the suspension is all-new, with 41mm inverted forks, with a revised shock absorber and linkage at the rear. Front brakes are now four-piston radially-mounted. Virtually every component has come in for weight-pruning, including the adoption of Yamaha’s patented SpinForged wheels. The bodywork is lighter, and overall weight in down by a kilogram.
There are plenty of important features that are basically invisible, but a significant shift is the adoption of ride-by-wire throttle, which allows the new MT-07 to employ a host of electronically-controlled rider aids. There are three different engine modes available Street, Sport and Custom, switchable two-level traction control, and an optional up-and-down quick-shifter. A standard fitment is a new Assist & Slipper clutch, giving a lighter feel at the handlebar lever and enhanced stability under braking and downshifting.
Up front is a new 5-inch TFT full-colour dash with the choice of four different themes, which can connect with smartphones using the MyRide app. Riders can also install the free Garmin StreetCross app and pair it to the MT-07’s dashboard for navigation with real-time traffic information. The seat is a two-piece assembly, with a revised size, shape and padding for both rider and passenger. One little tweak is what Yamaha call Acoustic sound enhancers – slots let into the tank to amplify the unique engine sound towards the rider under acceleration.
One feature that I really love is the self-cancelling turn indicators (blinkers) which switch off automatically after 15 seconds if the bike has travelled more than 150 metres. This is a major safety feature, especially for city use. In terms of comfort, the footrest and handlebar positions have been altered to provide a better riding position for most users. Handlebar switches are also brand new, with more functions despite being the same size as previously. Both LA (Learner 655cc) and HO (689cc) models will now carry the same price – $14,899.00 Ride-Away (Australia).
There are more than twenty genuine accessories available to suit the MT-07, including a completely new Akrapovic under-belly muffler, a multi-mount system that support various accessories, a flyscreen, middle screen, aluminium visor, bar-end base and knuckle deflectors. There’s no doubt that the fourth generation MT-07 has big shoes to fill, but also that it will have no problems doing just that.
Specifications: 2025 Yamaha MT-07 (HO model)
Engine: DOHC parallel twin DOHC, liquid cooled
Capacity: 689cc
Bore x stroke: 80.0mm x 68.6mm
Compression ratio: 11.5:1
Lubrication: Wet sump.
Fuelling: EFI
Fuel capacity: 14 litres
Transmission: 6-speed, chain final drive.
Frame: Steel, diamond pattern
Suspension: Front: USD 41mm Telescopic forks, 130mm travel.
Rear: Link suspension swing arm, 130mm travel
Brakes: Front: 2 x 298mm discs ABS
Rear: 1 x 245mm disc ABS
Tyres: Front: 120/70 ZR 17 Rear: 180/55 ZR 17
Seat height: 805mm
Wheelbase: 1395mm
Wet weight: 183kg
Colours: Ice Storm, Icon Blue, Tech Black.
Price: $14,899 inc GST Ride-away (Australia)
