After being fortunate enough to have had just about every YZF-R1 model since 2002 as a long term project over the past few decades, we've now taken on the new three-cylinder YZF-R9...
After decades of Yamaha YZF-R1 long termers, we’re happy to announce we have now got our gloves on the new YZF-R9 triple as a long termer. With 90 per cent of our riding these days on the road, with the occasional track day, the R9 made total sense to us…
This isn’t just an MT-09 with fairings bolted on. The R9 feels like its own model entirely, with a purpose and attitude far removed from its naked sibling.
I had a blast at the Aussie launch of the R9 back in May, lapping SMSP South Circuit. I was surprised how capable the bike was with only a turn of extra preload each end, it really is a proper supersport bike, so I can see why it won the 2025 World Supersport 600 title this year in it’s debut season.
Manzi wrapped up the World Supersport 600 title this year, the debut year for the YZF-R9. What a dream season!
Out of the box the YZF-R9 is like a friendly R6, not at all highly strung, but the opposite, with loads of endless grunt from the CP3 motor and a level of engine curve flexibility that is just heaven on the road compared to the old 16,000rpm inline-four, but that was a hell of a lot of fun.
As I pushed the limits of the bike around the South Circuit, I reckon I would have had to have race rubber and race gearing on an R6 to go faster on an R6 than I was on the R9. The R9 does run out of puff up top, but for short straights it is fantastic, and as expected, on the road, it is absolutely spot on.
I picked up our new Yamaha YZF-R9 from Yamaha HQ, it was handed over by Sean Goldhawk, and we reckon it is approximately our 25th Yamaha long termer.
I’ve already done the first 1000km, so it’s time for a first service, which I will carry out in the BikeReview workshop using a YamaLube Oil Change kit. I’ll be doing that in the coming weeks, so will bring you the step by step details in Part 2. We also have a track day booked, so I can’t wait to try it out on the full SMSP circuit and stretch its legs a bit more than I did at the launch.
It’s been fantastic on the road, really quite pleasant for a sportsbike. Although the riding position is not super aggressive compared to some sportsbikes, it is still up there with the best of them in terms of race crouch, and has taken this washed up racer a while to get back in to groove of riding for hours on end like that, but I am used to it again now. The dash, in fact the entire electronics package, which is lifted from the first model R1M, is absolutely fantastic, and easy to navigate and use.
The suspension and brakes are sensational, but I will be tweaking the suspension for a bit more on-road comfort over the high speed sharper hits, just to take the edge off. I can always change it back for track use if needed, but as I will be riding 250km round trip each time I go to SMSP, I would prefer the comfort factor, especially now I am 50 years old! I’m buggered after a track day these days!
First service is on the cards in the next few weeks, as I’ve already clocked up the miles. I can’t wait to get rid of that huge underslung muffler and cat converter. Ugly as… and must be damn heavy, too. Sounds OK, though.
We will be adding a tail pipe and some nice billet bits, a screen, and more. My priority is the taller screen, as I now have use of an office in the City, which I may as well use from time to time, so the R9 via the Old Road should be a nice way to get to work and come home throughout summer, and the screen will help keep the comfort up for the slabbing stints between the corners. So keep an eye out for Part 2 shortly, where I will service the R9 and, hopefully, fit some goodies and update you after a few more happy thousand kilometres. 
TECH TALK
CP3 Engine
Based on Yamaha’s renowned CP3 powerplant, the new 2025 YZF-R9 boasts a dedicated supersport chassis and comprehensive electronics suite, wrapped in striking next-generation R-series styling. The new 2025 YZF-R9 was conceived to redefine the supersport class by combining track-capable performance with street bike accessibility through a broad, smooth power delivery, light handling, street-friendly ergonomics and a complete package of advanced rider aids. A machine as at home on a race circuit in the hands of a seasoned track rider as it is exploring twisty roads or urban streets in the hands of a dedicated road rider.
The heart and soul of the new YZF-R9 is its characterful 890cc liquid-cooled three-cylinder powerplant, which receives a unique ECU tune and optimised gear ratio to provide thrilling supersport power with a broader, torquey street-friendly engine character. A carefully tuned airbox amplifies induction sound which combines with the CP3’s distinctive crossplane triple exhaust note to provide an aural resonance which further heightens the thrill of acceleration.
The versatile triple cylinder bike is not designed to take over from the more track-focused YZF-R1 but complement the four-cylinder machine…
Deltabox Frame
The advanced gravity-cast Deltabox frame is the lightest aluminium frame ever offered on a Yamaha supersport model. The frame is extensively tuned to deliver a supple, predictable feel at lower speeds and supersport rigidity for razor-sharp handling at track speeds. Along with new high-spec fully adjustable KYB suspension and nearly perfect 50/50 weight distribution, the YZF-R9 delivers light, agile handling that inspires confidence for a wide range of riders and experience levels.
Yamaha’s lightest ever Deltabox frame.
Model specific adjustable KYB suspension
New KYB suspension units are specified – including a 43mm USD front fork with base valve and a rear shock with a new low-speed valve – the first for a motorcycle. The new shock generates linear damping for precise road holding and chassis stability.
Big Brakes
Premium Brembo Stylema monoblock front calipers combine with a Brembo radial master cylinder, large 320mm dual front discs, stainless steel brake lines and aggressive pad compounds to offer supersport-level braking with exceptional power and feel. YZF-R9 also offers the option to turn rear ABS off for track riding.
Advanced aerodynamics
The new YZF-R9 includes MotoGP-inspired functional winglets which add downforce for a stable, planted front-end feel while keeping drag to a bare minimum. The new bodywork is the most aerodynamic Yamaha model ever offered. A dedicated supersport riding position is optimised to achieve excellent handling and a strong sense of unity with the machine while still offering a short reach to the clip-ons, ample leg room and low seat height for more comfort in a variety of riding scenarios.
New generation TFT display
The latest generation full-colour 5in TFT display provides a wide range of vehicle data. Select between four separate street themes or a dedicated track theme. Display themes, vehicle data, connectivity functions and the YZF-R9’s electronic suite are navigated through Yamaha’s latest integrated handlebar switches. Button shape and feel have been extensively refined to provide intuitive operation.
New generation TFT dash. Select between four separate street themes or a dedicated track theme.
Smartphone connectivity
Riders can link their smartphone to the new TFT display via Yamaha’s free Y-Connect app to receive message notifications, calls and listen to music (through use of an aftermarket Bluetooth® headset, not provided). Full turn-by-turn navigation is available through the Garmin® StreetCross app to make each journey easier.
Advanced electronic suite
An advanced six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) is based on the proven performance of the flagship YZF-R1 superbike. Data collected from the IMU and wheel speed sensors enable a high-tech suite of rider aids including a nine-mode Traction Control System (TCS), three-mode Slide Control System (SCS), three-mode Lift Control System (LIF) and a Brake Control System (BC). Levels of intervention can be adjusted and each of these systems can also be turned off providing the ultimate versatility and control in a variety weather and surface conditions. Road riders will appreciate convenient features such as cruise control and Yamaha’s Variable Speed Limiter functions while track day enthusiasts will enjoy the Y-TRAC race settings complemented by a virtual pitboard feature that displays instructions and information from pit crew to rider in real time.
An advanced six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) is based on the proven performance of the flagship YZF-R1.
Yamaha R-Series style
With sharp, distinctive R-series styling including its signature M-shaped front duct and tail wing, combining with new generation design cues like angled LED position lighting and advanced aerodynamics including functional front winglets, the revolutionary new YZF-R9 is instantly recognisable as the next evolution of Yamaha’s iconic R-series.
2025 Yamaha YZF-R9 Specifications
Price: $23,199 R/A
Warranty: Three-years unlimited km
Colours: Team Yamaha Blue, Matt Black, Intensity White/Redline
Claimed Power: 87.5kW@10,000rpm
Claimed Torque: 93Nm@7000rpm
Wet Weight: 195kg
Fuel capacity: 14L
Fuel Consumption (Claimed): N/A
Fuel Consumption (Tested): N/A
Range (Claimed): N/A
Engine: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, Crossplane triple, 78.0mm x 62.1mm bore x stroke, 890cc, 11.5:1 compression, three-into-one exhaust Gearbox: Six speed Clutch: Assist & Slipper Clutch with Quick Shift System (up & down), EFI, three-into-one exhaust.
Chassis: Aluminium Deltabox frame
Rake: 24.7° Trail: 109.2mm
Front Suspension: USD 43mm KYB forks, fully adjustable, 120mm travel, KYB monoshock, fully adjustable with low-speed valve, 117mm travel.
Brakes: Twin 320mm discs with Brembo Stylema four-piston radial calipers, Brembo radial master-cylinder, stainless braided lines, cornering ABS (f), Single 220mm disc with single-piston caliper, ABS (r), rear ABS disconnect for track
Wheels & Tyres: 10-spoke cast alloy wheels, Bridgestone RS11 120/70 – 17 (f), 180/55 – 17 (r) tyres
Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 1420mm
Seat height: 831mm
Ground clearance: 140mm
Overall width: 706mm
Overall length: 2070mm
Overall height: 1181mm
Instruments & Electronics: 5in full-colour TFT dash with four street and one track theme, Y-Connect app compatibility, Garmin StreetCross Nav support, 6-Axis IMU, Traction Control (TCS), Slide Control (SCS), Lift Control (LIF), Brake Control (BCS), Engine Brake Management (EBM), Back Slip Regulator (BSR), Launch Control, Cruise Control, Quick Shifter, Ride Modes (Sport, Street, Rain, Custom x 2), Virtual Pitboard, Variable Speed Limiter, Immobiliser, LED lighting.
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