An announcement earlier this year stated that the Yamaha YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M would no longer be offered as street-legal models in Europe, but the brand has now announced upgrades to the platform for the U.S. market in 2025. Upgrades include new braking components, redesigned suspension, and the addition of aerodynamic winglets.
Both models receive Brembo braking components for 2025, and the YZF-R1 gets a redesigned and fully adjustable KYB fork.
The most significant upgrade is to the brakes. Both models will now feature Brembo components befitting supersports of their caliber, including radial-mounted Brembo Stylema monoblock front calipers and a new Brembo master cylinder.
The YZF-R1 also benefits from a redesigned and fully adjustable 43mm KYB fork. The YZF-R1M returns with an Öhlins NPX fork, as well as the Öhlins Electronic Racing Suspension, which gathers data from the motorcycle’s IMU to adjust front and rear damping in real time. The R1M’s ERS also provides dynamic tuning modes for street and track, as well as manual modes.
New for 2025 are carbon-fiber winglets.
The R1 and R1M also receive carbon-fiber winglets, a feature that’s become popular on sportbikes in recent years and are designed to provide downforce for enhanced front-end feel when braking and cornering. The R1s also get new rider- and passenger-seat covers, claimed to balance grip with ease of movement.
The new rider- and passenger-seat covers feature a new texture.
Both models will remain powered by the 998cc CP4 inline-Four with crossplane crankshaft technology, titanium connecting rods, titanium intake valves, and forged-aluminum pistons. They share an aluminum Deltabox frame and 10-spoke cast-magnesium wheels wrapped in Bridgestone RS11 tires, as well as a titanium muffler and heat shield.
Technology on the R1 and R1M includes a 4.2-inch TFT display, full LED lighting, lean-sensitive brake control, three-level engine brake management, four-level Power Delivery Mode, lean-sensitive traction control, four-level slide control, four-level lift control, three-level launch control, and three settings for the up/down quickshifter.
2025 Yamaha YZF-R1M
The R1M includes GPS data logging, through which vehicle data can be recorded and wirelessly downloaded to a smartphone app where it can be analyzed. Then the rider can adjust system settings and upload the changes to the motorcycle.
2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 in Matte Raven Black
The 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 will be available in Team Yamaha Blue or Matte Raven Black, arriving in dealerships in November with an MSRP of $18,999. The 2025 Yamah YZF-R1M will be available in a Carbon Fiber colorway and will arrive in dealerships in March with an MSRP of $27,699.
2025 Yamaha YZF-R1M in Carbon Fiber
More 2025 Yamaha R-Series supersport announcements are expected in the coming weeks, so keep a look-out on our Motorcycle Reviews page for these announcements and more motorcycle news and reviews.
Suzuki announced the first wave of returning 2025 models in June, including the GSX-R family, Boulevard cruisers, the Burgman scooter, RM-Z motocross bikes, and youth dirtbikes. The second wave of returning Suzuki motorcycles includes the GSX-8R sportbike and the V-Strom 650, 650XT, and 650XT Adventure. This announcement includes new colors available for these returning models, as well as pricing.
2025 Suzuki GSX-8R
2025 Suzuki GSX-8R in Pearl Ignite Yellow
The Suzuki GSX-8R sportbike, which was introduced for 2024, makes its return for 2025 with a new color option. The GSX-8R is a sportier version of the naked GSX-8S introduced in 2023 and remains powered by a liquid-cooled 776cc parallel-Twin that makes a claimed 82 hp at 8,500 rpm and 57.5 lb-ft of torque at 6,800 rpm.
The GSX-8R is fitted with Showa suspension (including a SFF-BP fork), Nissin brakes (including dual radial-mount 4-piston front calipers with 310mm discs), standard ABS, and Dunlop RoadSport 2 radial tires. The 8R features Suzuki Intelligent Ride System, which includes rider aids such as three ride modes, four-mode traction control, and the Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.
In addition to the returning Metallic Triton Blue and Pearl Ignite Yellow colors, the 2025 Suzuki GSX-8R will also be available in Metallic Matte Black No. 2, which replaces Metallic Matte Sword Silver for 2025. MSRP is $9,669.
2025 Suzuki V-Strom 650 Models
2025 Suzuki V-Strom 650 in Glass Sparkle Black
The three V-Strom 650 models (V-Strom 650, V-Strom 650 XT, and V-Strom 650 XT Adventure) return for 2025, also with new paint colors. These adventure bikes are powered by a liquid-cooled 645cc V-Twin with a 90-degree crankshaft. The 6-speed transmission has narrow 1st-5th gear ratios and a tall top gear. The V-Strom 650’s aluminum twin-spar frame and subframe include integrated mounting points for Suzuki’s accessory luggage.
2025 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT in Pearl Vigor Blue / Pearl Brilliant White
The V-Strom 650 models have an adjustable windscreen, a ground clearance of 6.7 inches, a seat height of 32.9 inches, and a claimed curb weight of 470 lb. Electronics include traction control, the Easy Start System, the Low RPM Assist system, and ABS.
The 2025 Suzuki V-Strom 650 will be available in Glass Sparkle Black with an MSRP of $9,299.
The V-Strom 650XT features blue-anodized aluminum rims on spoked wheels with tubeless radial dual-sport tires, handguards, and a protective engine cowl. It will be available in Pearl Vigor Blue / Pearl Brilliant White with an MSRP of $9,799.
2025 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Adventure in Glass Sparkle Black
The V-Strom 650XT Adventure has gold-anodized aluminum rims with tubeless spoked wheels, and it comes with aluminum side cases, a handlebar cross-brace, and mirror extensions. It will be available in Glass Sparkle Black with an MSRP of $10,999.
Visit Suzuki’s website for more information about all Suzuki motorcycles.
The track-only KTM 450 SMR, built on the platform of the KTM 450 SX-F, has been updated for 2025, with improvements to the frame, fork, and styling.
The most significant update to the KTM 450 SMR is the frame, which now has visible cutouts and tube-wall-thickness changes around the front. The engine and rear shock mounts have also undergone some changes. These upgrades shave a bit of weight off the bike, which weighs 240 lb without fuel, while also improving chassis flex characteristics and cornering behavior, according to KTM. Also new are smaller footpegs to maximize lean angles.
The SMR’s suspension has also been updated for 2025. The previous AER 48mm fork has been replaced with a fully adjustable 48mm WP XACT closed-cartridge spring fork with a new mid-valve piston concept for optimized oil flow. The new hydro stop in the last part of the stroke is said to help keep a maximum of reserve for scenarios like big jumps and hard landings. The WP XACT shock returns with an updated linkage featuring new seals and smaller-diameter linkage bolts. Suspension travel is 11.1 inches in the front and 10.4 inches out back.
Air intake has improved with a one-piece inlet sleeve and snorkel design to prevent deformation thanks to a more robust and stiffer construction. The updated fuel tank mount is said to help protect the frame. Fuel capacity is 1.9 gallons.
The bike also receives new tank shrouds with bi-composite plastics on the upper and lower flanks, which contribute to the SMR’s new look. The full-orange bodywork with red and black graphics and a black seat, which KTM says is more durable than the previous seat, also contribute to the bike’s updated look.
Returning to the SMR are the Metzeler Racetec SM K1 Supermoto tires, which replaced the Bridgestone tires used since the 2023 update. The Metzelers are wrapped around 16.5-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels.
The KTM 450 SMR remains powered by a liquid-cooled 449.9cc Single with SOHC that makes a claimed 63 hp. Braking is provided by Brembo, with a 310mm front disc paired with a 4-piston radially mounted caliper. The bike also features a quickshifter that allows clutchless upshifts from 2nd to 5th gears, two ride modes, traction control, and launch control.
Pricing for the 2025 KTM 450 SMR has not yet been announced, but KTM says the bikes will be arriving in dealerships starting in November 2024.
The 2024 Honda CB650R (seen here in Pearl Smoky Gray) and Honda CBR650R have been upgraded with the addition of the Honda E-Clutch system for clutchless shifting.
Previously introduced in Europe, Honda E-Clutch will become available in the U.S. on the 2024 CB650R and CBR650R. This new system removes the need to use the clutch lever at all and eliminates the possibility of stalling, among other operational conveniences. In the same announcement, Honda released information about the upgraded 2025 CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, as well as four returning street models for 2025. All models in this announcement will be available at dealers in the U.S. starting in September 2024.
Honda E-Clutch
The new Honda E-Clutch system is something in between Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission and a quickshifter. While using the E-Clutch, the rider won’t need to operate the clutch lever, whether shifting up or down, coming to a stop, or pulling away after a stop. The rider need only switch gears using the foot control. A clutch lever remains operational, so riders can choose to use it if they prefer.
If the rider uses the clutch lever, the Honda E-Clutch system will reactive after less than a second at higher engine rpm or after five seconds at lower engine speeds. For even more control, the rider can select Manual mode from the switch cluster on the left side of the handlebar to eliminate any E-Clutch functionality.
E-Clutch also allows riders to select from three operational feel settings: Hard, Medium, or Soft. These settings can be chosen independently for upshifting and downshifting, and they affect the strength of force required on the shift pedal to make a gear change.
The Honda E-Clutch system weighs less than 4.5 lb, and the clutch and transmission hardware are the same as on a conventional motorcycle. The system works by reading parameters like vehicle speed, throttle-opening angle, engine rpm, pressure on the shift pedal, clutch-motor reduction-gear angle, engine countershaft speed, and gear position. Using these readings, the system manages clutch engagement and disengagement, as well as ignition timing and fuel injection for smooth responses.
For 2024 in the U.S., the Honda E-Clutch system will be offered only on the CB650R and CBR650R, both of which receive other updates as well.
2024 Honda CB650R and CBR650R
2024 Honda CBR650R in Grand Prix Red
Honda’s middleweight naked and its fully faired sibling are upgraded for 2024. The most notable update is the addition of the E-Clutch, detailed in the section above. Other updates to both models include a new 5-inch TFT instrument display, LED lighting throughout, and updated styling, with the CB650R dressed in Honda’s Neo Sports Café style and the CBR650R carrying a sportier look.
2024 Honda CB650R
Both bikes feature a 649cc inline-Four with DOHC and four valves per cylinder. Suspension comes from a 41mm Showa SFF-BP fork and a Showa shock. Dual 310mm discs with radial-mounted 4-piston calipers slow things down up front. The CB650R naked has a claimed wet weight of 456 lb, while the CBR650R is 10 lb heavier.
The 2024 Honda CB650R will be available in Pearl Smoky Gray with an MSRP of $9,399. The 2024 Honda CBR650R will be available in Grand Prix Red with an MSRP of $9,899.
2025 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP in Grand Prix Red
A proven winner in MotoAmerica’s Stock 1000 class, the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP returns for 2025 with several significant upgrades. Honda claims the updated Fireblade SP now makes more power in the midrange and has a more responsive engine thanks to reduced crankshaft mass. All gear ratios have been shortened for 2025, and the Akrapovič muffler is larger for adequate flow while meeting noise-emissions standards.
The riding position is more humane for street use, with taller handlebar grips and lower footpegs. The bike also includes a new two-motor throttle-by-wire system, nine-level traction control, three riding modes, a revised aluminum frame with new rigidity balance, a suspension with third-generation Öhlins Smart Electronic Control, new Brembo Stylema R radial-mount 4-piston calipers, a new winglet shape, a 5-inch color TFT screen, and a slight increase in fuel capacity to 4.4 gallons.
The Fireblade is powered by a 1,000cc inline-Four with DOHC with a bore and stroke of 81mm x 48.5mm. Valve timing has been revised for 2025, and the compression ratio was raised from 13.4:1 to 13.6:1.
The 2025 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP will be available in Grand Prix Red with an MSRP of $28,999.
The CBR1000RR returns unchanged for 2025. The bike’s 1,000cc inline-Four features magnesium engine, covers, DLC-coated finger-follower rocker arms, a compression ratio of 13.0:1, and a redline of 13,000 rpm. The bike also features a slipper clutch, Honda Selectable Torque Control, wheelie control, three levels of engine braking, a TFT screen with three selectable display options, and a five-level Power Selector. Suspension is provided by a 43mm Showa BPF fork and a Balance Free Rear Cushion shock, and braking is provided by Tokico 4-piston radial-mounted calipers up front. All lighting is LED.
The 2025 Honda CBR1000RR will be available in Pearl White with an MSRP of $16,999 without ABS and $17,299 with ABS.
2025 Honda CBR600RR
2025 Honda CBR600RR in Deep Pearl Gray
Designed to “deliver racetrack-level performance at an accessible price,” the CBR600RR returns for 2025 unchanged. It’s powered by a 599cc inline-Four with a bore and stroke of 67.0mm x 42.5mm and a compression ratio of 12.2:1. The 41mm Showa BPF is adjustable for spring preload and compression and rebound damping, and in the rear is a Pro-Link shock with spring preload, rebound, and compression damping adjustability.
The 2025 Honda CBR600RR will be available in Deep Pearl Gray with an MSRP of $12,199 without ABS and $13,199 with ABS.
2025 Honda CB300R
2025 Honda CB300R in Pearl Dusk Yellow
The smallest of the CB models, the CB300R naked returns for 2025 as Honda’s entry-level bike. It features fully blacked-out hardware, styling cues taken from the larger-displacement CB bikes, aluminum wheels, and ABS. It has an LCD instrument display and full LED lighting. It’s powered by a 286cc Single with DOHC and four valves. Wet weight is a claimed 317 lb, wheelbase is 53.3 inches, and the seat height is 31.5 inches.
2025 Honda CB300R in Matte Black Metallic
The 2025 Honda CB300R will be available in Pearl Dusk Yellow or Matte Black Metallic with an MSRP of $5,149.
The quirky and fun-loving Honda Monkey returns for 2025. The retro-styled mini is powered by a 124cc air-cooled Single with a 5-speed transmission, and its wet weight is only 231 lb with its 1.5-gallon tank full. Its seat is reasonably low at 30.5 inches, and its wheelbase is just 45.0 inches. The Monkey is equipped with LCD instrumentation and LED lighting.
Underneath that techy styling is a supercharged H2 engine that burns hydrogen.
As the motoring world is gradually shifting toward electric propulsion, Kawasaki is putting a new spin on internal combustion with its hydrogen-fueled motorcycle based on the supercharged Ninja H2 – yep, an H2 powered by H2!
Most hydrogen-fueled cars on the market or in development use the compressed gas in a fuel cell that produces electricity, which then feeds an electric motor for propulsion. But this new Kawi internally combusts hydrogen like gasoline-fueled engines.
This groundbreaking machine was paraded a few days ago in front of the audience at the Suzuka 8 Hours FIM World Endurance race. It marked the world’s first public demonstration run of a hydrogen ICE (internal combustion engine) motorcycle, at least one created by a mass-production manufacturer.
Kawasaki is boldly looking ahead to a future that includes burning hydrogen.
“Hydrogen engines produce power like conventional gasoline engines,” said the bike’s project leader, Satoaki Ichi. “Hydrogen burns more quickly and under a wider range of conditions than gasoline, making it possible to create a more responsive feeling than ever.”
Kawasaki began development of this bike in March 2023, using the supercharged 998cc inline-Four found in Kawasaki’s Ninja H2 but with modifications to allow direct injection of hydrogen fuel into the cylinders. It operates on hydrogen combustion, so it retains familiar internal-combustion sensations when twisting the throttle, as you’ll hear when viewing the video above.
Baby’s got back! The enormous saddlebags contain hydrogen fuel canisters.
The results of hydrogen’s combustion are water vapor and virtually no carbon dioxide, making this system largely carbon-neutral. Kawasaki Motors Ltd., a member of the Kawasaki Heavy Industries Group, is conducting R&D with the aim of producing a hydrogen ICE motorcycle in the early 2030s.
Kawasaki is a member of HySE (Hydrogen Small-mobility & Engine technology), an association focused on researching hydrogen-combustion technology, from engines to filling and fuel-supply systems. The membership includes the Japanese Big Four motorcycle companies and Toyota.
The hydrogen-powered Kawasaki boasts futuristic edgy styling.
Using hydrogen for fuel has clear advantages in terms of exhaust emissions, but its widespread adoption will be hindered by the extremely limited infrastructure for its delivery into motor vehicles. Hydrogen’s transportation and storage require special facilities that are expensive to set up.
“Timing and availability,” notes Kawasaki, “may vary depending on the hydrogen fuel supply infrastructure and the status of legal regulations in each country.”
The dawn of a new era of internal-combustion motorcycles.
Kawasaki is clearly committed to alternatives to traditional gas-powered internal-combustion engines. In 2023, Kawasaki announced two all-electric motorcycles, the Ninja e-1 ABS and Z e-1 ABS. And in January, Kawasaki unveiled two hybrid motorcycles, the Ninja 7 Hybrid ABS and Z7 Hybrid ABS, which combine an internal-combustion engine with an electric motor, and they can run on either power source independently or on both at the same time.
Now in its fourth generation in 10 years, the 2024 Yamaha MT-09 has received a long list of updates and is better than ever. (Photos by Joseph Agustin)
The traditional gift for a 10th anniversary is tin or aluminum, neither of which is particularly fancy, but the latter certainly makes sense for the 2024 Yamaha MT-09. The 890cc inline-Triple-powered naked bike is built around a controlled-fill die-cast aluminum frame, its subframe and swingarm are likewise made from aluminum, and so are its lightweight spinforged wheels and other components.
A decade ago, I attended the U.S. press launch for the all-new Yamaha FZ-09 (as it was originally called) in San Francisco. Blasting around the steep, obstacle-course streets of the Golden Gate City on the fast and frisky FZ was a rollicking good time. The bike was fresh, exciting, and unique, and it felt like Yamaha had a hit on its hands.
The 2014 Yamaha FZ-09 was a bold, unique entry into the middleweight naked segment. (Photo by Tom Riles)
The FZ-09 was the first model powered by Yamaha’s new “Crossplane Concept” inline-Triple, which was inspired by the YZF-R1’s distinctive crossplane inline-Four. The R1’s engine offsets each crankpin 90 degrees from the next, which creates a cross rather than the flat plane of a 180-degree crank, and it uses an uneven firing interval for smoother throttle response, better rear-wheel traction, and unique character. With one less cylinder, the FZ-09’s CP3 has each crankpin offset 120 degrees from the next, and they fire sequentially (1-2-3) in even 240-degree intervals, and the result is much the same as with the R1’s engine.
The original 847cc CP3 inline-Triple that powered the first-generation Yamaha FZ-09.
The lively motor cranked out about 110 hp, and it was bolted into a compact bike that weighed just 414 lb soaking wet. Duly impressed, in my review I claimed that “the FZ-09 looks, sounds, and feels different from any other bike on the road. It’s part sportbike, part supermoto, and part streetfighter.” That first iteration had some teething issues, including abrupt throttle response and a brick-like seat, but it was a blast on two wheels and a steal at just $7,990. So many deposits were put down before bikes started arriving at dealerships that Yamaha doubled production.
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 has fresh styling, revised ergonomics, updated electronics, and upgrades to its chassis and suspension. This colorway is called Midnight Cyan. Other color options are Matte Raven Black and Team Yamaha Blue.
Ten years later, we’re now on the fourth generation of the platform known in America since 2018 as the MT-09 to match its global nomenclature. Updates every few years have been fueled by the bike’s popularity – more than 30,000 have been sold in the U.S. and nearly 200,000 have been sold worldwide.
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 has sportier ergonomics, but comfort isn’t compromised and the new riding position makes sense for the bike’s intended purpose.
As the MT-09 has grown up, it has become more refined and more sophisticated. But, unlike most teen rebels who become tax-paying adults, the MT hasn’t lost its edgy side. The biggest overhaul was in 2021, when it got a larger 890cc (up from 847cc) engine, an updated chassis, and an IMU-supported electronics package adapted from the R1.
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 has new LED headlights and position lights, plus a whole lot more.
2024 Yamaha MT-09 Review | What’s New
Updates for 2024 are mostly enhancements. Starting with the drivetrain, the transmission has new drive dogs and gears that improve shifting engagement and reduce backlash. Yamaha’s third-generation quickshifter now works at speeds as low as 9 mph and allows downshifts during acceleration as well as upshifts during deceleration. To improve intake sound, there are now two tuned intake ducts instead of three, a new intake opening in the airbox, and, like those introduced on the 2022 Yamaha MT-10, Acoustic Amplifier Grilles atop the fuel tank that project intake sound directly into the cockpit.
Atop the redesigned fuel tank are Acoutic Amplifier Grilles, which project intake sound into the cockpit.
The MT-09’s updated styling and revised ergonomics begin at the front, with new LED headlights and position lights fitted into a stubby, Predator-esque facemask. The fuel tank was reshaped and repositioned for a more aggressive look and sportier ergonomics. Compared to the previous model, the tank is wider, lower, and has deeper knee cut-outs. The handlebar is now 1.4 inches lower, is a tad closer to the rider, and has more sweep and a sharper rise, but it also has two position settings and an additional four degrees of steering sweep on either side (32 degrees, up from 28). The net result of these changes is more weight on the front tire and a smaller turning radius, both of which make the bike easier to maneuver.
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09’s new Predator-eqsue facemask includes high/low beams in the center and postion lights that look like menacing squinted eyes.
Ergonomic changes also extend to the saddle, with the former single-piece seat replaced by separate rider and passenger saddles. Seat height for the rider remains 32.5 inches, but the seat is flatter and 0.5 inch narrower near the front to make it easier to reach the ground. The rider’s footpegs have been moved rearward and like the handlebar are adjustable with two positions. Yamaha further sweated the details by making the clutch lever adjustable over 14 positions spanning a 0.4-inch range, making the mirrors larger, and replacing the cast brake pedal with a stronger forged unit.
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 has a new two-piece seat, and the rider’s portion is flatter and narrower in front.
Having altered the front/rear weight distribution and always on the hunt for better handling, Yamaha also made changes to the MT-09’s chassis and suspension. The CP3 Triple is a stressed member of the chassis, and the right and left side engine brackets were made thicker for more rigidity in the middle. The headstock bracket, on the other hand, was changed to allow more compliance up front.
Engine internals are unchanged, but the transmission has been updated and the engine mounts have been revised.
The MT-09 still uses a fully adjustable 41mm inverted fork made by KYB, but it has a higher spring rate and firmer damping. The KYB shock, which is adjustable for preload and rebound, uses a new linkage ratio with a flatter curve as well as firmer damping. The main brake components – dual 298mm floating front discs with 4-piston radial calipers, a single 245mm rear disc with a 1-piston caliper – are unchanged, but the front master cylinder has been upgraded to a premium Brembo radial setup.
2024 Yamaha MT-09 Review | Riding Impressions
Yamaha returned to the Bay Area for the U.S. press launch of the 2024 MT-09, but this time around we were farther south in the heart of Silicon Valley. That’s fitting since the latest MT is the most tech heavy yet. It has a larger, 5-inch (up from 3.5) TFT instrument panel with four display modes. Using the Yamaha Y-Connect app, a smartphone can be paired with the bike, allowing use of the free Garmin StreetCross app for on-screen turn-by-turn navigation.
A larger 5-inch TFT instrument panel has four display modes and rich graphics that show how different Yamaha Ride Control electronics alter riding characteristics.
Connecting the Garmin StreetCross app enables on-screen navigation.
The Yamaha Ride Control electronics suite has been simplified into three standard ride modes (Sport, Street, and Rain) as well as two customizable modes that allow all rider aids to be tailored to the rider’s preferences via the TFT menu or Y-Connect app. Parameters can be adjusted for throttle response, lean-sensitive traction control, cornering ABS, slide control, wheelie control, back-slip regulation, and the quickshifter. The handlebar switches have been redesigned to be more user-friendly and intuitive, and cruise control is now standard.
Cruising around town, the 2024 Yamaha MT-09 is a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
The MT-09’s engine alights with a familiar growl. Following the model-year 2021 update, there has been no typical exhaust pipe to speak of, just a metal box under the bike with an exit hole on the bottom. With the engines warmed up, we began our test ride on the city streets of Cupertino, where Apple is headquartered. It was a Thursday morning, and folks were driving their Teslas to Starbucks, driving their Teslas to work, or driving their Teslas to drop kids off at school. Our gang of gas-powered motorcycles might as well have been a group of Hell’s Angels.
As a slender, light, compact machine, the 2024 Yamaha MT-09 would make an ideal commuter.
At modest around-town speeds, the MT-09 is well-mannered. It’s easy to maneuver, its controls and functions make sense, and its exhaust burbles politely. As a lightweight, compact machine, it would be an ideal commuter, even more so when fitted with one of Yamaha’s accessory top trunks, available in 34-liter and 45-liter sizes.
The MT-09’s happy place.
But a sporty naked bike lives its best life in the curves. Leaving the flat suburban grid behind, we climbed into the rugged Santa Cruz Mountains, which are covered with towering redwoods and crisscrossed with fantastic roads, such as Skyline Boulevard and Big Basin Way. With its wheels wearing the latest Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires, the MT-09 clung to the road like a cat climbing a tree, and it handled the dozens of tight transitions with confident ease.
The MT-09’s spinforged wheels are shod with new Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport 23 radials.
When riding at speed while leaned over, whether giving it throttle or applying the brakes, the changes to the MT-09’s ergonomics, weight distribution, and chassis clicked. The more committed riding position improves the rider’s sense of control, providing a more reassuring connection to the bike. Grippier tires with more weight on the front and firmer suspension damping help the MT-09 feel more planted. The bike does more of what it is supposed to do – what you want it to do – freeing up brain space for scanning ahead, judging corner speed, or admiring the blurred view out of the corner of your eye.
The Yamaha MT-09 keeps a cool head under the pressure of aggressive sport riding.
While the Acoustic Amplifier Grilles might sound like a gimmick, they actually work. They aren’t electronic; they’re not like tiny guitar amplifiers with a knob that goes up to 11. They are simply tunnels that allow intake sound to be projected directly toward the rider, kind of like those ear trumpets old folks used a long time ago, and the effect is greatest at mid to high rpm. The auditory boost adds to the visceral, spine-tingling feelings that make sport riding so addictive.
2024 Yamaha MT-09 Review | The Long Ride Home
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 accessorized with a 34-liter top trunk, comfort seats, and a radiator guard. (Photo by the author)
Wanting to spend more time with the new MT-09 than our one-day test ride would allow, I opted to ride one home from the launch. Yamaha set me up with several accessories, including a 34-liter top case, comfort seats, and a radiator guard (see accessory pricing below spec chart). With gear stuffed into the top case and more in a duffel bag Rok-strapped to the passenger seat, I headed south for a greatest-hits tour of Central California roads.
The accessory radiator guard keeps rocks and other debris from damaging the radiator. It’s also one heckuva bug catcher!
The accessory rider and passenger comfort seats (sold separately) use special foam for additional support and they feature unique styling and white stitching.
First I had to slog through 50 miles of traffic-clogged freeway, which required a lot of lane changes. One of the upgrades on the new MT-09 is self-cancelling turnsignals. Once activated, they turn off after 15 seconds if the bike has moved more than 150 meters (492 feet). Also new is a dual-function turnsignal rocker switch. A short tap on either the left or right side of the rocker gives a short three-pulse signal for a quick lane change, while a full press gives a continuous pulse (another full press turns off the signal, or you can wait until it auto-cancels). All well and good, except that with my big gorilla thumbs I didn’t have enough finesse to do the short tap. And rather than the more common central button that you push to cancel, I’d often hit the wrong side of the rocker and mistakenly activate the other turnsignal, which meant I was giving mixed signals – literally – to those behind me. While I’m all for self-cancelling turnsignals, the dual-function rocker switch complicates what has long been a no-look, second-nature operation.
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 has new switchgear that includes a joystick and for navigating menus and a rocker switch for the dual-function, self-cancelling turnsignals. Cruise control is a new standard feature too.
Now that I’ve covered that nitpick, let me get back to praising the MT-09, because there isn’t much else to complain about. South of Hollister is a 60-mile stretch of California Route 25 that runs parallel to the San Andreas Fault and hugs the western side of a valley between the Diablo and Gabilan mountain ranges. It was early May, and thanks to above-average winter rainfall, my ride on SR-25 was between green hillsides, lush pastures, and fields covered in wildflowers. SR-25 passes by the eastern entrance to Pinnacles National Park, and from there until its end at State Route 198, it is a playground of curves, dips, and dales. It was a Friday morning, and the road was all but empty. Bliss.
One of the wide-open curves on California’s Hudson Ranch Road. (Photo by the author)
Crossing SR-198, I continued south on Indian Valley Road, a 40-mile roughly paved farm road that’s little more than a lane wide. Farther south, I wound through wine country on State Route 41, sliced my way through the tightly banked curves of the short but sweet State Route 229 (aka Rossi’s Driveway), and then enjoyed 65 gloriously curved and fast-paced miles on State Route 58 to the edge of the Central Valley. South of Maricopa, I climbed back into the mountains on State Route 166, rode around grassland hills and along ridgelines on Hudson Ranch Road, carved through canyons on Lockwood Valley Road, and snaked over mountains and through valleys on State Route 33.
California Route 33 emerges from the fog as it climbs the mountains in Los Padres National Forest. (Photo by the author)
It was a fantastic, 425-mile day in perfect conditions with sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s. The only downside was being a human bug catcher, splattering hundreds of flying insects as I hit them at speed. After returning home, I logged another 600-plus miles on the MT-09 over the next few weeks.
Got bugs? My helmet was even worse, as you can see in the video review above. (Photo by the author)
What did I learn? The MT-09 still has the untamed spirit of the original FZ-09, but it now feels less like an unbroken bronco and more like a hot-blooded thoroughbred. It’s a more self-assured machine, ready to give the rider what he or she wants when they want it. It’s more versatile too, better equipped to perform over a wider range of uses, from trackdays to sport-touring to weekend canyon carving to daily commuting. The riding position is more committed than before, but it makes sense for the MT-09’s core mission of sport performance.
All grown up but still ready to party.
Yes, the base price of the MT-09 seems much higher than it was in 2014, but not when you take inflation into account. The $7,990 MSRP from a decade ago would be $10,532 in today’s dollars. The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 is priced at $10,599 – just $67 more, yet the current model is a much better motorcycle with many more standard features, particularly its state-of-the-art electronics package. The original FZ-09 was a steal, but the new MT-09 is an even better deal.
Even though the 2024 Yamaha MT-09 is more powerful, is more feature-packed, and performs better in every way, it costs only $67 more than the original 2014 FZ-09 when adjusted for inflation. Few bikes offer as much bang for the hard-earned buck.
2024 Yamaha MT-09 Specs
Base Price: $10,599
Price as Tested: $11,634 (see accessory pricing below)
The MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro is a limited-edition model of 500 units worldwide described as “the shape of desire.” More a work of art than an every-garage bike, the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro features premium components and state-of-the-art technology. Even if you can’t get your hands on one of the 500 units, you can still enjoy its visual beauty and save its high five-figure price for a rainy day.
Powering the MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro is the 998cc inline-Four also found in the Rush 1000 and Brutale 1000. MV Agusta claims the engine makes 208 hp at 13,000 rpm and 85.9 lb-ft of torque at 11,000 rpm, with redline at 14,000 rpm. Top-quality components here include forged titanium connecting rods, DLC-coated cams, and titanium valves. The Akrapovič four-exit titanium exhaust was developed specifically for this bike and features an “organ pipe” shape.
It rides on a steel trellis frame, and the single-sided swingarm is made of aluminum and has a height-adjustable connector pin. Suspension is provided by Öhlins with a 43mm inverted fork and a 36mm monoshock, both offering 4.7 inches of travel. The fork is electronically adjustable for compression and rebound and manually adjustable for spring preload, while the shock is electronically adjustable for preload, rebound, and compression. Also included is an electronically adjustable Öhlins steering damper.
Keeping with the theme of high-quality components, Brembo supplies the brakes. Up front are two 320mm discs with radially mounted Stylema 4-piston calipers, and in the rear is a 220mm disc with a Brembo 2-piston caliper. The cornering ABS system has two levels of intervention: Sport and Race modes.
Designed and built at the MV Agusta facilities on the shores of Lake Varese in Italy, the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro is made to be admired. Key styling details include a round headlight, horizontal lines, and high-tech materials like carbon fiber. In fact, the bike’s entire bodywork is carbon fiber painted with Ago Silver, Pearl Shock Red, and Gold Ciclistica. MV Agusta says 41 components on the bike are made of carbon fiber using two different processes: forged and laminated. The seat is made of leather and Alcantara, and a leather strap runs down the fuel tank. The star-shaped wheels draw the eyes, and the rear wheel’s hub features the MV logo. The winglets provide visual impact and some downforce at speed.
Technology is abundant on the MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro. In addition to two-mode ABS, it features traction control with eight levels of intervention, front lift control to optimize wheelies, launch control, cruise control, the MV EAS 4.0 bi-directional quickshifter, and four ride modes: Rain, Sport, Race, and Custom.
Through the MV Ride app, riders can access turn-by-turn navigation that is displayed on the 5.5-inch TFT color instrumentation. The Trip Record function of the app allows riders to record their rides and view the completed route, speed, gear used, lean angle, altitude, and travel times, and they can share their recorded rides with the MV community on the app. It also includes an alarm managed through the Greenbox app to alert the owner if the bike is messed with, and MV provides one year of free use for the alarm.
As a limited-edition model, the MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro comes with a dedicated kit that includes a certificate of authenticity, a dedicated motorcycle cover, a passenger seat in leather and Alcantara, passenger footpegs, carbon passenger heel guards, CNC-machined brake and clutch levers, and height-adjustment plates for the swingarm pin.
MV Agusta hasn’t announced a U.S. price for the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro, but the U.K. price is £61,400 (nearly USD $79,000). During the press briefing for the bike, MV Agusta said preorders were originally exclusive to brand collectors, and it claimed about 60% of the 500 units to be made are already spoken for. Those interested in one of these limited-edition motorcycles should make haste to their local dealer to inquire about ordering one.
This 2025 motorcycle buyers guide highlights new or significantly updated street-legal models available in the U.S. As with previous buyers guides, we will also include 2026 teasers as soon as manufacturers let us know about them. We will continually update this guide as new models are available, so be sure to bookmark this page and check back often.
Organized in alphabetical order by manufacturer, our guide includes photos, pricing, key update info, and links to first looks or – when available – Rider‘s first rides, road tests, and video reviews of the motorcycles.
2025 CFMOTO 450CL-C
2025 CFMOTO 450CL-C in Bordeaux Red
The 2025 CFMOTO 450CL-C is new cruiser from CFMOTO powered by a liquid-cooled 449cc parallel-Twin with DOHC, a 270-degree crank, and dual counterbalancers mated to a 6-speed transmission, a slip/assist clutch, a Gates belt final drive, and a dual-chamber exhaust coated in a matte ceramic finish. Braking is provided by J.Juan, and ABS and traction control are standard. The 450CL-C rides on a 58.5-inch wheelbase and has a 28-degree rake, 4.25 inches of trail, and a 27-inch seat height.
The 2025 CFMOTO 450CL-C will come in Bordeaux Red and Nebula Black and start at $5,699.
The 2025 CFMOTOIbex 450 features a liquid-cooled 449cc parallel-Twin with DOHC, a 270-degree crank, and dual counterbalancers mated to a 6-speed gearbox with a slip/assist clutch. It has a standard Ride mode and an Off-Road mode. The bike has J.Juan braking components with ABS that is switchable at the rear, as well as switchable traction control. The Ibex 450 has a fully adjustable KYB inverted fork and a central-aligned, multi-link rear monoshock with adjustable damping and preload.
The bike has an adjustable handlebar and a 32.3-inch seat height/ride height that can be lowered to 31.5 inches via an integrated lowering link. It has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and it rides on tubeless, cross-spoke rims. The 2025 CFMOTO Ibex 450 will come in Zephyr Blue or Tundra Grey and start at $6,499.
In its first major revamp since its 2015 debut, Indian’s Scout cruiser platform is all-new from the ground up, and the 2025 Indian Scout lineup includes five models: Scout Bobber, Sport Scout, Scout Classic, Super Scout, and 101 Scout. Three trim levels will be available, as well as more than 100 dedicated accessories.
At the heart of the Scout platform is a new engine called the SpeedPlus 1250. The V-Twin remains liquid-cooled but is redesigned, punched out from 1,133cc to 1,250cc. Power goes up to 105 ponies and 82 lb-ft of torque, and the 101 Scout gets a bump to 111 hp. Also new is the Scout’s frame, switching from an aluminum design to a simpler steel-tube chassis. It supplies a 61.5-inch wheelbase with a 29-degree rake and 4.8 inches of trail. The Scout has a low 25.6-inch seat height. There are also new features and technology offered on certain Scout models and trim packages. All models except for the 101 Scout use a single 298mm front disc brake with a 2-piston caliper, and ABS is standard.
The Indian Scout Bobber has an MSRP of $12,999, the Scout Classic is $13,999, the Sport Scout is $13,499, the Super Scout is $16,499, and the 101 Scout is $16,999.
The 2025 KTM 990 RC R is KTM’s only street-legal, liter-class supersport is powered by a LC8c powerplant with a new ergo-crafted and condensed stainless steel muffler and a shifter that can be reversed to race-shift as standard. The steel frame has increased weight bias towards the front end and a steering head angle of 25 degrees. It also features a new fuel tank shape, adjustable footrests, fully adjustable WP APEX Open Cartridge Suspension, and lightweight cast aluminum wheels wrapped in Michelin tires.
Pricing for the 2025 KTM 990 RC R has not yet been announced.
The 2025 Moto Morini Corsaro 750 naked and fully faired Corsaro Sport are both powered by a new 749cc 90-degree V-Twin and share Brembo braking components, standard ABS, a fully adjustable inverted fork, and a progressive link rear shock. The Corsaro Sport gets a wider rear tire, clip-on handlebars, a taller seat, and more bodywork compared to the Corsaro 750.
The 2025 Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 features the new 1,187cc V2 Corsa Corta EVO engine, an 87-degree V-Twin designed and engineered in Italy and making a claimed 122 hp. The new adventure bike features Brembo braking components, switchable cornering ABS, a fully adjustable fork, and a progressive link shock.
The Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 has a tubular trellis frame and a 33.8-inch seat height. An aluminum luggage rack is included as standard equipment. Pricing has not yet been announced.
2025 Triumph Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition
2025 Triumph Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition
The 2025 Triumph Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition is limited to only 925 units worldwide and celebrates Elvis and his Memphis Mafia group of friends who rode on Bonnevilles. The Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition has been crafted to honor its namesake, including its Carnival Red color scheme, “ELVIS” gold lettering on the tank, Elvis’s signature on the tank and side panels, and the “Taking Care of Business in a Flash” emblem on the front fender.
The 2025 Triumph Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition will be available starting at $15,495 and will arrive in dealerships starting in September 2024.
2025 Triumph Rocket 3 Storm GT in Sapphire Black with Granite
To celebrate 20 years of the Rocket 3, a muscle bike with the largest engine in a production motorcycle, Triumph has unveiled the 2025 Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R and Rocket 3 Storm GT. Their 2,458cc in-line Triple cranks out even more power – up 15 ponies to a massive 180 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque (up 3).
The Rocket 3’s 16-inch rear and 17-inch front wheels have been updated with a 10-spoke cast-aluminum design. They have an lightweight aluminum frame that uses cast and forged elements, dual Brembo Stylema front calipers with 320mm discs, and a Brembo M4.32 rear caliper with a 300mm disc.
They come with lean-sensitive cornering ABS, traction control, Ride-by-Wire, a Torque Assist clutch, Hill Hold, four ride modes (Road, Rain, Sport, Rider-configurable), cruise control, a keyless ignition and steering lock, and a USB charging socket. Instrumentation comes in the form of a color TFT.
The 2025 Rocket 3 Storm R will be available in Carnival Red with Sapphire Black, Satin Pacific Blue with Matte Sapphire Black, or Sapphire Black with Granite for $24,995. The 2025 Rocket 3 Storm GT will be available in the same colors but with the color split of the tank reversed, retailing for $25,795.
The 2025 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RR Breitling Limited Edition will be limited to only 270 units, and Breitling will also launch a special Triumph watch in conjunction with the motorcycle. The bike features a bespoke paint scheme with premium gold hand-painted detailing, a leather seat with French stitching, a high-spec Akrapovič silencer, and lightweight carbon fiber parts. It will also include a custom Breitling start screen, the Breitling logo laser-etched onto the machined rear wheel finisher, and a gold Breitling badge on the tank.
The 2025 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RR Breitling Limited Edition will be available starting in June 2024 with an MSRP of $25,995.
Celebrating Triumph’s rich racing history is the new 2025 Triumph Trident 660 Tribute Special Edition, which features a race-inspired graphic scheme, Triumph Shift Assist, and a flyscreen. The Trident 660 is powered by a liquid-cooled 660cc Triple that makes a claimed 80 hp at 10,250 rpm and 47 lb-ft of torque at 6,250 rpm. It has a seat height of 31.7 inches and a weight of 416 lb. Throttle-by-wire allows two ride modes (Road and Rain), and it comes with ABS, switchable traction control, and a combined TFT and LCD display.
The 2025 Triumph Trident 660 Tribute Special Edition adds a white, blue, and red graphic scheme inspired by “Slippery Sam,” as well as a Number 67 race graphic, a flyscreen, and Triumph Shift Assist, which enables clutchless up and down gear changes with an autoblipper on downshifts for smoother changes.
The 2025 Triumph Trident 660 Tribute Special Edition will be available for one year only with an MSRP of $8,595.
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 801 replaces the Svartpilen 701 for 2024. The visually-striking naked is powered by the 799cc LC8c parallel-Twin that’s also found in the KTM 790 Duke and 790 Adventure.
We had a chance to give the Svartpilen 801 a good flog at a press launch Husqvarna hosted in Provence, a region in southern France, where we hustled the bike around the region’s craggy mountains.
Ten years after its debut in the U.S., the Yamaha MT-09 has been updated and refined for 2024 while maintaining its wild side that we enjoyed on the first generation. Updates on this generation are extensive, including new acoustic amplifier grilles, an improved transmission, more aggressive ergonomics, a stiffer chassis, updated suspension, new Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires, a new 5-inch TFT display, new switchgear, and a complete electronics package.
We rode the MT-09 in the Santa Cruz Mountains in California during Yamaha’s press launch and then rode the bike home after the launch, testing the MT-09 on a variety of roads. We came away impressed with the bike’s refinements and happy to see how this motorcycle has evolved in the past decade.
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