Yamaha’s Tracer 9 delivers a compelling blend of reliability and road manners that rivals the best in the touring segment. While Honda is known for dependability and BMW for handling, the Tracer 9 brings both qualities to a middleweight platform, offering a versatile and engaging ride. This bike stands out by combining practical touring features with sporty performance, making it ideal for riders who want a capable machine without the bulk of a full-size tourer.
Why Middleweight Touring Makes Sense
Full-size touring motorcycles are often excessively large and heavy, designed to accommodate two-up comfort and maximum luggage capacity. This results in massive chassis and larger engines, adding weight and complexity. The Tracer 9 avoids this by offering a more manageable size, making it easier to handle in traffic, on mixed surfaces, and simply more enjoyable for solo riders. A smaller package doesn’t mean sacrificing capability—it means prioritizing practicality and fun.
The Tracer 9: Honda Reliability Meets BMW Road Manners
Launched alongside the discontinuation of the V-Max, the Tracer 9 represents Yamaha’s commitment to blending touring comfort with sporty dynamics. It takes the proven chassis and engine from the MT-09 and adds features geared towards long-distance riding, such as wind protection and a larger TFT display. The result is a bike that feels planted on the road while still being engaging in corners.
The Tracer 9 is priced at $12,599 for the base model in the US, which includes standard luggage. While it lacks high-tech features like adaptive cruise control, it still offers excellent value for its capabilities.
The CP3 Engine: Proven Power and Durability
The heart of the Tracer 9 is Yamaha’s 890cc CP3 inline three-cylinder engine. This powerplant has been in production for over a decade and has earned a reputation for bulletproof reliability. It produces 117 horsepower at 10,000 RPM and 68.6 lb-ft of torque at 7,000 RPM, providing ample power for touring and spirited riding. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission and chain drive. With a five-gallon fuel tank and a claimed 48 MPG, riders can expect over 200 miles per tank.
The CP3 engine has proven its durability over the years. Many owners report high mileage without major issues, with some exceeding 50,000 or even 100,000 miles. This engine’s longevity is a key factor in the Tracer 9’s appeal.
Chassis and Handling
Yamaha retained the twin-spar chassis from the MT-09 but modified it for better touring capability. The suspension features 41mm inverted forks and a rear monoshock, adjustable for preload and rebound damping. The brakes include 298mm twin discs with four-piston calipers at the front and a 267mm disc with a single piston caliper at the rear. The bike’s compact dimensions (85.6 inches long, 35.4 inches wide) and 483-pound wet weight contribute to its agility.
Tech and Features
The US market Tracer 9 comes standard with a seven-inch TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and a manually adjustable windshield. The “matrix” LED headlight features cornering functions, while self-canceling indicators add convenience. The bike also includes a six-axis IMU, ride modes, cornering traction control, cornering ABS, and anti-wheelie/slide control. A two-way quickshifter is available as an optional upgrade.
Competition
The Tracer 9 competes with motorcycles like the Triumph Tiger 900 GT, Honda NT1100 DCT, and BMW F 900 XR. The Honda offers a full-size sport tourer with a dual-clutch automatic transmission, while the BMW provides more power in a lighter package. However, the Tracer 9 strikes a balance between performance, reliability, and value that makes it a strong contender in the middleweight segment.
The Yamaha Tracer 9 is a well-rounded touring motorcycle that delivers on its promise of Honda reliability and BMW-level road manners. It’s a versatile machine that excels in both comfort and performance, making it an excellent choice for riders who want a capable and enjoyable touring experience.
