Yamaha MT-07 – First Ride Review

When Yamaha announced that they were doing away with the FZ prefix for the US models of their hyper naked line, it was reasonable to ask, “Why?” If it’s not broken, why fix it? Think about it this way — if it can be better, make it so. Taken to task, that is exactly what they did with the Yamaha MT-07.

Why Yamaha Renamed the FZ-07 to the Yamaha MT-07

Understanding what MT stands for explains half of the theory. MT translates to Master of Torque. What we know in the US as the FZ lineup has been known globally as the MT. The FZ models sold tremendously well in the American market, topping 15,000 units since their introduction in 2014 — more than any other Yamaha model in North America.

Launched globally in 2015, the MT line had a stellar 2017, breaching 24,000 units sold worldwide. Unifying the FZ and MT under one name connected owners across the globe and opened the door for a cohesive international brand identity. Masters of Torque, unite.

What’s New on the 2018 Yamaha MT-07

Straight away, the 2018 Yamaha MT-07 embodies the true spirit of the hyper naked class. On its side stand, the bike looks like it is begging for a street fight — and it has the muscle to back it up. The entire bike has been redesigned relative to prior model years, with a new tank, updated rider and passenger seats, revised headlights, new radiator covers, and relocated turn indicators.

Powered by a 689cc parallel twin, four-stroke, four-valve engine, the Yamaha MT-07 produces 50.2 foot-pounds of torque. That commanding acceleration is courtesy of Yamaha’s cross-plane philosophy — characterized by uneven firing intervals that give the engine a distinctive, responsive pull. In other words, plenty of get up and go.

Agility and confidence come courtesy of the tubular backbone frame and a well-matched suspension setup. Up front, 41mm KYB forks work in tandem with an adjustable KYB rear shock for a sportier feel. At a wet weight of 403 pounds, the MT-07 is not just stable — it’s rock steady, which does wonders for rider confidence.

Riding the Yamaha MT-07: First Impressions from Spain

The press launch for the 2018 MT-07 took place in Marbella, Spain — where it rained for the duration of the road test. Riding through small towns and up into the mountains with rain attacking sideways, confidence in the machine was key. Despite the waterworks, the MT-07 performed extremely well.

Acceleration through the ascending and descending turns was smooth and consistent. Powering out of the twisties, the inline twin pulled with strength and commitment. The now-standard ABS braking system was much appreciated in the wet — it proved to be a genuinely solid machine in unfavorable conditions. And to be honest, that torrid atmosphere only made me want to get the MT-07 out under better skies.

Yamaha MT-07 Verdict: Built for More Than Beginners

At 83 inches long, 43 inches tall, and a 32-inch seat height, my large frame found the MT-07’s ergonomics slightly compact — but most riders will find the dimensions dialed in. The bike fits well and inspires confidence quickly, which is a large part of the point.

The 2018 model launched at $7,599 — a price that made it easy to classify as entry-level. That label sells it short. The MT-07’s user-friendliness and accessible power delivery make it approachable, but it has the substance, personality, and performance range to carry experienced riders just as well.

Looking to get your hooliganism on? The MT-07 has the stones. It checks several boxes ranging from commuter to asphalt slayer, and it has the range to meet you wherever your riding style takes it.

Yamaha has embraced its dark side with this machine. In Japanese philosophy, darkness carries aggression, edge, and a willingness to push limits. The MT-07’s style, presence, and attitude all lean into that energy — engineering a specific emotion and connecting rider to machine on a level that goes well beyond spec sheets. The Dark Side of Japan is calling.

Images: Yamaha

About The Author

Allan Lane

Philadelphia born and bred, Allan Lane is the Publisher and Editor in Chief of digital magazines. He launched his first publication, SportBikes Inc Magazine in 2010, followed by dosage MAGAZINE in 2019. Recently, Allan launched his third online publication, Club For Man. As a journalist, Allan covers fashion, lifestyle, culture, art, and motorcycles.

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