Living with the hugely impressive 2023 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ | Long-term test
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- čas přidán 8. 02. 2024
- #Yamaha #9GT #Tracer
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Is the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ your favourite sports tourer? Tell us below!
had a Gen1 and got a Gen 3 GT, wasn’t prepared to pay £3500 extra for the plus just for a radar and dash.
mine’s just turned 1 y/o and I’ve done 19k miles, here are my cons, on top of what’s already been said…
build quality, subframe on mine has been rusty for months, the slightest hint of salt wrecks the finishes and the paint chips very easily.
suspension is too firm and poorly damped and difficult to set preload on the front, the rear preload adjuster also has a tendency to seize.
1st gear is too long, takes a lot of revs to pull off when carrying a pillion and the judder from the slip assist clutch mechanism is a pain in the ass. I run mine of 15/47 gearing which makes it much more user friendly and lively in the twisties, downside being lower mpg and top speed.
the brakes are still dire, vague and woolly, EBC HH pads do help though.
would I have another? probably 🤷🏻♂️
would I pay GT+ money? doubt it
For the money, it is so far. I am very excited to see the reviews for the new Suzi GX+
We don't want radar, we want this display on Tracer 9
FANTASTIC testing from Steve, especially that dissection of the radar cruise implementation on this.
very intelligent and detail explanation on how adaptive and radar capable cruise control can benefit you as a rider.
Great review!! Love all the details. Thanks for the honesty!
Interesting comments about the tires. Good to know and hear about your experience with the oem treads. I too love the modern tech on bikes. Really helps us old codgers with declining reaction times and other age related impairments keep riding safely.
Great in-depth review🎯
Dude is great as a tester of these electronic systems. Great points.
Good series.Thks.
What really surprised me is that neither of the guys mentioned the electronic suspension. That good that you don't notice it, or just a lack of awareness of the feature?
I mounted a Dominator HP8 on my Tracer 9 GT+. The Bike sounds and feels incredible. Quickshifting feels more smooth now.
I have an older one (68 GT) and it is the perfect all-rounder. Absolutely rapid, sounds great with my straight pipe Akra, with the Puig screen and an extender there is no turbulence, I have ridden for hours with my flip face open at 50-60mph.
Got a link for your screen and extender?
I own this exact bike. Second one I've had too. Got a decent Akra system on it and sounds good. Puig screen sorted the turbulence out and adjustable Gillies leavers sort the clutch problem.
I fell into the 2022 and not a bike I would've ever seen myself on. Aside form the dash (and that font ..ugh) and the saddle angle, it has turned out to be the perfect fit for what I needed. I will admit that one of the things that sold me, was it was all there: Electronics, saddlebags, shift assist... all of it. The only thing I've modified it larger wind hand guards, rear fender extension and rear shock guard. My partner loves the comfort of pillion seat and we have spent hours about hours of riding in comfort and fun.
Awesome video! I looked at the Tracer when I was shopping for a new bike. The niggles you mentioned , the turn signals , lights , looks, and windscreen may not seem like a lot but I lost interest. Which is quite sad , isn't it? Considering the engine. It wouldn't take much from Yamaha to fix?? Great review. Best!
To the extent that my 2021 Tracer 9GT is similar to the 2023 GT +, I agree with your assessment. I've put close to 20,000 miles on the bike and love it too. I knew going in that an adventure style, sport tourer, with upright seating, would have issues with wind noise. I replaced the stock windscreen with Yamaha's touring version, and I also added a Puig clip on. It reduces much of the noise although it will never achieve that bubble of calm of my BMW RT. You can't alter the laws of aerodynamics. The other issue for me was the stock seat. I've significantly improved the seat by sending it to a seat specialist in California. The adaptive cruise control of the + version would be nice, but it's not a necessity for me. And the aesthetics of the split TFT was never an issue because the information that I need to see at a glance is easy to read, and accurate. Importantly, the bike is not only fun to ride and tour with but also stone cold reliable. Yeah, it's not beautiful. If I wanted to buy a bike to look at, I would have bought a Panigale.
The seat is so bad I can’t ride mine and the Seargent seat did not help I wish I could find a seat that would work or I’m gonna have to sell it
I’m considering buying this bike…also in CA. Who did your seat ?
@@itnoked I had my seat done by Seargent and it’s better but still not great I have considered Corbin but almost $700.00 and no guarantee or return
@@itnoked Russell Cycle Works in Shasta, California.
I'm so tempted by this bike, comes with everything I need (inc laugage).
I had a 2020 and loved it, except for the location of the key (which has thankfully been moved). The new dash and adaptive cruise are fantastic.
The looks are subjective but I can say that this dark grey and black is one of the best looking paint job Yamaha has made for the T9. Although it’s not a stunning beautiful bike, and the one eyed running lights it’s something that I can’t overcome about this bike’s aesthetics. The rest of the bike including the engine is all very satisfying and the price for what we’re getting seems reasonable. Would be interesting if Yamaha could study a better solution in terms of aerodynamic protection. Overall this is a very well balanced market proposal to the segment that it fits.
I have a little Z400. I think it’s hideous. But over the years, the looks grew on me. Mostly because the fond memories creating a positive association.
Sounds like my first gf
Not in the uk myself but I was going to get one of these. Went 2 dealers that carry yamaha cash in hand ready to place an order. Both didn’t want my money. They literally don’t know delivery timelines. They said it can take 2,4,8 9 months or they randomly get an email from yamaha saying they are getting two.
Ordered an nt1100 instead. Still have a waiting time (6months, 3 to go) but they know when its due and honda sticks to delivery dates.
Fabulous overview well done...I’ve the 9GT with the Groucho Marx look! Find the same, the engine is the star of the show but the screen is awful as is the seat slope and the looks aren’t inspiring! Only had mine a year and 5k miles and its already only worth £8k in part exchange. Undecided whether to keep it or part ex for the 2024 Tiger GTpro, Africa Twin or Guzzi Stelvio... is the grass greener or have I already got the best sports tourer? 🍻👍
I bought a 9GT new 18 months ago. It's a good all round bike that can do big distances or you can have a fun afternoon on. It sounds good as is quicker than you'd expect. The windscreen is rubbish, most have replaced or modified it. It also, as you alluded to, doesn't look the best either. I haven't got a problem with the twin screen display. What I have got a problem with is the quality of the finish on the bike and Yamaha's response to dealer supported warranty claim for corrosion. £15k for the GT+? It's definitely not worth it!
That exhaust needs to gooooooooo
The OE tyre is the reinforced GT version of the T32 for heavier ST bikes presumably as Y expect it to be frequently used fully loaded. The non-GT version of the T32 is better suited to a 70kg solo rider. The replacement Angel GT II tyres you fitted are also available in a reinforced (A) version but I am guessing you fitted the standard non-A version.
I just got a 21 Tracer GT. The screen is much quieter than my ninja 1000 sx.
I own this bike and really enjoy it, the only way it could be improved is get rid of the chain.
Nice review. I'm more of an FJR man and wondered when you mentioned the pulling away issue, it could be a failed TPS sensor. This is quite common for Yams.
i road an FJR for 6 jears and switcht to a Tracer in 2015 and then the Tracer 900 gt and now the Tracer 9GT+, and i have no regrets the tracer is so briliant and nimble to ride specially with pillion
@@svboy8132 Glad you are enjoying it. I couldn't stand the buzziness through the bars and the wind turbulence. Not to mention the lack of shaft drive. It's such a godsend on a proper tour.
I like the Looks.... Not as much as the original 900 but they had to make some changes for aerodynamics so you can go over 120mph without the weave problem.
One of the best bike you can buy today
Most riders are complaining about the screen - interesting for me it's the best oem screen I have had. I usually had to change a few screens on a bike, but not with Tracer GT, it's perfect for me.
I would say everyone needs to try it before, a seat or a screen, it's really an individual thing.
What's your height? Maybe that's the key.
@@MadChalet Well it's not just the height that matter, but also upper/lower body torso measurement...178cm, longer legs, smaller torso.
Can you get a base model of the GT Plus, not the twin display model, but the Plus, without panniers for example, to lower the price a bit?? They should have put the new dash on the base model, also. Some people just want the new iteration without so much tech.
I bet (hope) the Groucho Marx (Not Karl as Neeves mentions😀) clocks get replaced in the next update of the 9 and the GT, AFAIK if you get the. plus you have to get the panniers.
One of these were available locally for £13500 new which is a steal! But the screen problem is a deal breaker for me... I couldn't buy one of these unless I rode someone else's first, to confirm that their replacement screen solved the noise and buffeting problems. I am tired of spending money of on screens to solve problems that shouldn't be present in the first place!
I have the '22 and put on the Ermax screen, no more buffeting and quieter. I prefer lower screens so for me it is great.
That dive u felt when turning is very common thing to feel when you ride a bike of someone that don’t wear it evenly, usually because they don’t lean it as much or often
Nice one lads. You’d think Yamaha would have got the screen right by now as I haven’t heard a positive comment about it. So, to get my own perspective I borrowed a friends one and yes it’s crap. Nothing worse than turbulence around the helmet.
Keeps aftermarket companies in work!
@@Begbiespintpot Very true. However, same friend has already spent money on 3 different well known aftermarket screen manufacturers and still hasn’t been able to fix this. An improvement? Yes. However, when you are spending this type of money you’d think Yamaha with all their extensive pre-launch tests would’ve improved this purely based upon the negative feedback.
@@marcusgeorge1825 is there no acceptable alternative? Looking for my next bike at the moment and this is one of them on the shortlist
@@Begbiespintpot It was on my list. However the turbulence and additional noise around any of my helmets has taken it off my list. It might just be due to my height at 189 cm. How tall are you? As if you’re shorter it might not be as big a problem for you. For me I prefer a screen that still enables smooth airflow around the helmet with a screen that offers wind protection from chest height and below or just a naked depending on what I’m wanting to achieve from a motorbike.
I have a 22 Tracer 9GT which is a great motorcycle. Yamaha has done a fantastic on the Tracer, but I just think the new Tracer has to much electronics with the assistive cruise and braking.
Very interesting, thanks. If my old bones finally cry enough of my R1, I'd be seriously tempted by this bike.
For 15k this bike is perfect and I don't care what anyone says the bmw ktm or ducati equivalent are not worth 8k+ more... not a chance
Where do you get 8k+ for £15k a BMW S1000XR TE would only be £18.5k and the excitement you get over that slow Yam, but maybe you now like it in the slow lanes😂
@@petewatson9866what additional tech do you get on a XR over this? I agree 120 bhp is nothing these days, like riding a 125. Need 200 bhp minimum if you are a real man like you Pete.
@@petewatson9866 I test ridden the xr. Very bland bike.. the 8k+ came from the super adventurer.. gs and multistrada.
The 9gt is all the bike you need. I had a ninja h2 way to powerful for the road who needs a bike that can go 80 in first.. pointless
Super adventure for 23k? Where? You can easily get one for 15-17k
I think 15 is a lot for this personally
Are you not able to adjust the clutch bite point at the lever and where the cable goes into the case?
yes, you can adjust at the cable, but it causes issues with the cruise as it has a switch on the clutch lever, if there’s too much play it either won’t engage or will randomly disengage. I fitted adjustable levers which solved the issue
7.57 highlights the main reason why I didn't buy one (that and the screen). Every Tracer that I've looked at, that has seen any sort of winter use, the exhaust looks really scabby and spoils the overall appearance.
Thanks for putting it out there 6:45 It can be serious danger if using the radar in wrong situation as you point out. Radar assist should be used on big highways not in city traffic or small country roads. It has its limitations.
I’m biased as I own a Ninja 1000sx, like the Tracer but I think the Ninja has better build quality and suspension although not being semi-active
Love the SX and they're selling them for £9,999 with a 4 year warranty! No contest.
There is a design flaw in all but the latest models.
I'm surprised Kawasaki haven't released a "SE" model yet. Both Rear and Front suspension needs some love. Its built for a 70 kilo/ 165 lb. I rather pay for Öhlins regular then huge premiums for electronic suspension.
Found the Kawasaki too heavy
We shouldn't defend Yamaha or Bridgestone for putting lesser tyres on the bike. If I buy a bike with Bridgestone t32:s they should be the same as if I buy them anywhere else! I believe many or pretty much every tire manufacturer does the same but we should shame them all for doing it, as motorcyclists we should be able to trust our tires!
The feel of washing out at the corner is caused by the computer controlling the engine and brake?
Dear Joseph Wright. I keep asking and will keep asking. For the love of God mate. Captions/Subtitles please. I like to catch up with MCN when I finish work at night. When everybody is in bed and I can't turn the volume up. Meaning I still can't catch up at night because videos edited by you don't give me the option. Send me the vids early and I'll even transcribe them and send them to you🤣
Agreed. Hearing issues here. Me and millions of others.
The looks, that colour, wind noise, the looks and £15,000 are a deal breaker for me.
You need to know the difference between Carl and Groucho
Nice review:) Disagree on one point. I think it looks pretty great 👍
Wish it was shaft like the Tenere. Still amazing machine.
Groucho? :)
Yamaha should do this with the MT10
Nice exhaust, said no one ever
I had 4 of these for long term loans over the last year, 2 GTs and 2 standards, all with various mileages but none were over 15k miles.
These are absolutely atrocious for longevity... Suspension damn near locked up on a 13k mile bike? ridiculous. and it wasn't just that one bike, it was very noticeable the quality of the suspension, switch gear, levers, etc between the various mileages and it made a huge difference over not a huge mileage difference.
They're nice bikes, too bouncy for my liking, same feeling of rapid tipping in but it was present for me on different tyres too, engine is nice but imo it WAS jerky especially in 1st gear 10-20mph stop and go traffic, but by far the biggest problem is that they won't last 2 years with proper all year usage like they're meant to be used for...
See my comment about the finish on my Tracer
That longevity finish is what most reviewers don’t get to say I remember the bmw X-r no tester mentioned the vibrations
@@mengaw-yong2490 I owned a first generation 2015 S1000XR and never had problems with vibrations. The tracer is easily worse, yet it's not mentioned either. Apparently some XR's came from the factory with over torqued engine mounts, re-torquing them and fitting heavier bar ends eliminated 90% of the vibes. Unlike the tracer my XR with 45,000 miles and multiple years of riding through the winter on salty roads looked nearly brand new.
Yes dear.
I checked out the Tracer 900GT but preferred the Tiger 800XRT.
I've had it since 2019 and the quality shines through.
I did think the Yamaha had a superb engine though but so has the Triumph.
I’d wait the price down, yams don’t hold their money. $10-12k usd tops.
Needs a paint job, the boring gray color needs to go.
Sooo... he doesn't like CC in situations where no one should be using CC?😂
I hated the Tracer front end feel and handling no matter how much every journo tell it’s amazing. It isn’t.
Think you meant Groucho Marx, not Karl Marx, Neevsey! ;)
You mean Groucho Marx.
😂. Yeah Karl Marx is an entirely different story
@@NZsarge1 yeah i had no idea what he was on about. I was thinking where is the beard for KM?
More for your money than the new Suzuki GX but seriously Yamaha, get that screen sorted out!
MRA Vario solved the screen issue for me
@@MrToastedBluepuig screen did it for me.
Stop quoting monthly payments on PCP deals without stating duration, it's meaningless! What you quoted would see you spending over £8k over 3 years and probably still have the same again to pay in the balloon payment if you decide not to just rent it.
Lol Karl Marx dash?!? Surely Groucho not Karl!!
Your reviewer goes ga-ga over the radar cruise control, then almost as an afterthought points out the clutch is juddery, handling depends on tyre choice and the screen is a pain! Those (ahem!) issues aside, if it had shaft drive it might impress the touring community, but most don't want to go back to chains with shaft-driven bikes being so good. Years ago, Yamaha's Diversion 900 had good shaft drive - manufacturers seem to be going backwards! Looks-wise I think it's fine I don't know what you two are expecting - a tourer is never going to look like a Panigale. Surprised to read fuel consumption is only 44 mpg, my RT does 56-58 and I ride it pretty fast.
The tracer is more suited to under 65's and people who like reliability.
@@alrightdave6135 Fair point, youngsters will put up with cheap, high maintenance engineering like chain drive. Re reliability: my last decade on Beemers has been trouble free. I upgraded one starter-motor because mine was a bit lazy - that's it! Talk to Freddie Dobbs - his Transalp won't start and his Bonnie is in ER!
Meh this talk of cruise contol. Im waiting for speed limiter to trickle down from the mt10. Set the limit for the road and keep your eyes up and just drive.
Really fancied the GSX-S1000 GX, but I feel most reviews have given it a bit of a lukewarm reception. The Yamaha on the other hand always gets very positive reviews, I just don't like the looks as much, the name is a bit w@nk as well.
The engine is a peach ! Spot on power and usability! I have the mt09 sp 2021 and I'm very satisfied
Don’t care about reviews. Get out there and test both bikes, mate!
By the way: the GX got great reviews in Germany. As I said…ride the bikes and make up your own mind.
The GX is a different animal with its legendary engine. Hard to compare. Both bikes are great for how different they are.
Suzuki wants $950 for heated grips in the US, that got me looking for other bikes and picked a 9 GT, I love that bike
The Karl Marx dash? What does it do, allow you to read the Communist Manifesto? 😉
I really disliked adaptive cruise in a car, and cannot expect I will like it on a bike. Neither BMW or Yamaha have worked out how to integrate it in an aesthetically pleasing way.
Not a cheap bike, but the tire inflating valves, just HAD to be the cheapest ! - straight - to torture the owners 🤬🤬
Almost all the other bikes in the price range have ANGLED valves - NOT this one 🤮🤮
So true , especially the front
Karl Marx dash? Slip of the tongue obviously, but funny!
Good bike, but it looks awful.
Damn 5 minutes talking about cruise control.
The elephant in the room is the hidden transponder within the bike and all modern bikes which will communicate with the new ulez / pay per mile cameras. Accelerating into the apex sounds a bit scarey. If it was a 125, not too bad but a 100bhp bike no thanks