2025 Yamaha MT-07 First Ride Review: Key Updates and Performance

First Impressions and Ride Modes

• 🏍️ The 2025 Yamaha MT-07 offers familiar fun with new features like custom ride modes (Street, Sport, Custom) that surprised the reviewer.
• 💡 The bike is described as an already great machine that Yamaha has successfully made even better, retaining its core strengths.
• 🚦 The reviewer notes the medium to low seat height is accessible for riders around 5'10" with a 32-inch inseam, allowing for flat-footed ground contact.

Riding Dynamics and Performance

• 💨 The CP2 parallel twin engine (689cc, 72 hp, 50 lb-ft torque) is praised for its punchy, low-end power delivery, making it ideal for city riding.
• 🛣️ Highway performance is adequate, with the bike maintaining 80 mph comfortably, though the lack of cruise control is a noted drawback.
• 🛠️ A significant upgrade is the KYB front and rear suspension, which is now more adjustable and provides a firmer, more stable ride compared to previous models.
• 🕹️ The transition to ride-by-wire throttle is seamless, with Yamaha successfully replicating the connected feel of the older cable throttle.

Technology and Ergonomics

• 📱 The new 7-inch TFT dash is a major highlight, offering a fantastic display and functionality, a feature the reviewer wishes Yamaha would implement across more models.
• ⚙️ Controls are generally well-placed and feel good, though the turn signal cancellation mechanism is noted as a minor point of contention.
• ⚠️ While the bike is praised for its overall performance, the brakes are considered functional but not exceptional, and the seat is on the firmer side for all-day comfort.

Chase Score Breakdown

• 🚀 Throttle Response (8/10): Crisp and indistinguishable from cable throttle due to ride-by-wire.
• ⚡ Agility (9/10): An urban MVP, darting through traffic with ease.
• ✋ Brakes (5/10): Functional but the weakest aspect of the motorcycle.
• 💨 Acceleration (6/10): Respectable punch, but 72 hp keeps it in the zippy, not fast, class.
• 🌟 Suspension (7/10): Much improved and firmer, though not premium spec.
• 😊 Comfort (6/10): Good ergos for longer rides, but firm seat and lack of wind protection are factors.
• 📈 Tech (7/10): Major upgrades with TFT and ride modes, but missing cruise control.
• 👍 Ease of Use (9/10): Beginner-friendly yet engaging, with excellent control feel.
• 🔄 Versatility (7/10): Handles commuting and spirited rides well; touring is the main limitation.
• 💰 Fun for the Money (10/10): Considered the most fun per dollar under $10,000.
• 🏆 The 2025 MT-07 achieves a total Chase Score of 74, topping the leaderboard.