MT-09 Y-AMT – Semi-automatic MT-09 goes on sale in Australia this year

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MT-09 Y-AMT - Semi-automatic MT-09 goes on sale in Australia this year

Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMT

When it was introduced a decade ago, the first generation MT-09 brought pure emotion and excitement back to the world of motorcycles, kicking off a new generation of three-cylinder Yamahas.

The MT-09 was updated for 2024 with a redesigned riding position and a host of new technologies that take it up a notch in the spec sheet.

Now the exhilarating ride of the MT-09 can be experienced in a whole new way with the introduction of the MT-09 Y-AMT, the first model to feature Yamaha’s all-new Automatic Manual Transmission.

The MT-09 Y-AMT will be available from Yamaha dealers in Australia this October. Pricing is yet to be announced.

Yamaha claims the new transmission will revolutionize the sport riding experience, Y-AMT allows the rider to focus entirely on the performance of the MT-09 by redefining the gearshift process to finger-shift or fully automatic, to deliver consistent linear shifting, creating the most engaging and immersive riding experience.

The Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMT is developed based on the high-performance MT-09 platform, demonstrating both the outstanding dynamics of the base machine and Yamaha’s new transmission technology.

Powered by the same powerful 890cc CP3 three-cylinder engine as the newly launched MT-09, the MT-09 Y-AMT is Yamaha’s first motorcycle to feature an automated manual transmission.

Yamaha automatic manual transmission

Manual shifting via finger-operated ‘toggle’ switch
Electric motor actuated clutch and automatic gear shifting
Two automatic shifting modes: D+ and D
Smart key system

Retaining all the qualities that make the MT-09 a class leader, the MT-09 Y-AMT combines the agile handling and powerful performance of the standard machine with a variable transmission system that allows the rider to choose between a fingertip-controlled manual transmission, offering a more engaging riding experience and the pure convenience of fully automatic shifting.

Clutch and gear shifting operations are both driven by an electric motor, eliminating the need for both a traditional clutch lever and a foot-operated gearshift.

MT was developed with a sporty driving style in mind, allowing faster and more consistent gear changes when the rider wants to exploit every level of performance.

Shifting is activated via a tactile rocker switch conveniently located at the driver’s left fingertip. The driver can use their thumb and index finger to shift up with the positive paddle and down with the negative paddle, or opt for a sportier one-finger operation, using only their index finger to shift up with the positive paddle and pushing the paddle down for the ultimate sporty ride.

At standstill and at low speeds, the Y-AMT system controls the operation of the clutch and gearbox, which has also been tuned for quick response in heavy traffic conditions. The system takes over the gearshift function completely when in either AT mode, but can be overridden using the see-saw lever.

D+ mode unleashes the CP3 engine’s renowned character, maintaining higher revs for longer when shifting up and down through the six-speed gearbox. Additionally, D mode provides smoother, more confident fully automatic shifting to support low-speed and urban driving, ideal for commuting and on journeys where the rider wants to enjoy a more relaxing ride.

While previous generations of automatic transmissions were all about comfort and convenience, the Y-AMT prides itself on improving the MT-09’s torque and agility – delivering a more engaging experience for the rider.

Switching between MT and AT modes is easy and can be done on the go by activating the button on the right switch,

Powered by a crossplane concept CP3 890cc three-cylinder engine, the MT-09 Y-AMT produces a powerful 87.5kW at 10,000rpm and the riding experience is enhanced by an acoustically tuned intake system, with mesh vents integrated into the fuel tank so the rider can hear the powerful roar of the intake at high rpm.

The MT-09 Y-AMT’s minimalist design language reflects the bike’s ‘ready for action’ attitude and features a lightweight CF aluminium die-cast frame, ideal for sport riding. The chassis is the latest evolution of Yamaha’s iconic Deltabox frame and has been tuned to provide high chassis rigidity, delivering excellent rider feedback and superior agility.

The suspension and brakes are also up to the level modern riders expect from a sporty midsize car. The 41mm front forks are fully adjustable and have been developed to suit a wide range of riding styles.

The rear suspension is also adjustable with multiple settings, while the MT-09 Y-AMT’s braking system features a Brembo radial master cylinder, which provides linear pressure to the four-piston front calipers – ensuring strong and consistent stopping power.

To complement the next-level technology synonymous with this flagship machine, the MT-09 Y-AMT comes with a Smart Key System, which allows the rider to start the bike with the push of a button as long as the key is on the person. The system also features a fuel tank lock/unlock function.

The dynamic nature of Yamaha’s Y-AMT technology is made possible by the Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) system and six-axis IMU, which control a comprehensive electronics suite derived from the R1.

This top-of-the-line electronic package includes a three-level traction control system (TCS), Skid Control System (SCS), Front Wheel Lift Control (LIF), Brake Control System (BC) and Back Slip Regulator (BSR).

Customisable driving modes allow the rider to customise the vehicle’s performance and attitude, with a full-colour TFT instrument panel displaying all information in a clear and easy-to-understand format, along with smartphone connectivity and navigation functionality.