The 2021 Yamaha MT-09 is finally available in Malaysia for a price of RM54,988 (excluding road tax, insurance and registration).

The new price is a significant increase of more than RM7,000 than the previous generation MT-09.

Looking at the differences with the previous-gen model, it would be easier to say that the 2021 Yamaha MT-09 is a completely new model built from the ground up. Its key features are more power, less weight, and cleverer than ever before.

First and foremost, its firepower has been increased to 117hp and 93Nm of torque thanks to the newer and bigger 890cc inline-three engine. New upgrades to its pistons, conrods, camshafts, and crankcase also mean that this engine is lighter than its smaller predecessor.

In other words, the new 890cc unit is lighter but more powerful, even though it is now Euro5-compliant.

All this power is sent to the rear wheel via a six-speed manual transmission, which is now upgraded with the presence of a slip/assist clutch. All of this is now housed within a new diecast aluminium Deltabox frame matted to a new subframe and swingarm (which are also made out of aluminium).

In total, the 2021 Yamaha MT-09 weighs only 189kg (kerb).

Also new to the 2021 model is its braking package which consists of dual 298mm discs up front paired with Nissin callipers and radial master cylinders. The suspension comes in the form of a fully adjustable KYB front fork and a rear shock unit with preload and rebound adjustability.

The biggest upgrade for the 2021 Yamaha MT-09 has to be its electronic riding aids, which is inspired by the brand’s top-of-the-line superbike, the Yamaha YZF-R1. The MT-09 now features a six-axis IMU unit that works together with its lean-angle sensitive traction control, slide control, cornering ABS, and rear-lift mitigation features.

Other features include a 3.5-inch TFT screen, quickshifter, and auto-blipper for clutchless up and down gear shifts. The front headlight design now houses the main projector headlight and two sides DRLs that present a completely new presence for the new MT-09. Looking at the specs, we don’t mind the looks on a single bit.

According to Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM), the new models will make their way to the authorised Yamaha dealership beginning November 11.