Sad news, our long term Yamaha YZF-R9 test had to be cut short as the bike has proved so popular that Yamaha needed it back early! Our 6-months became 4-months but not to worry, during that time we had plenty of riding and discovered a lot about this fantastic bike…
We rode the Staff Bikes long term Yamaha YZF-R9 from September to February, so a summer test, and it proved a brilliant street sportsbike.
Nick and I shared the bike for the test period and both agree that as far as a street sportsbike goes, the R9 is just about spot on. It’s linear, smooth, torquey, comfortable and easy to ride yet at the twist of the wrist and switch of a mode it’s a sports weapon (and clearly a race winner as WorldSSP 600 shows).
So what were the pros and cons of living with the R9 day to day for four months? A few small things we would have changed if we had the bike longer would be to fit a taller screen, just to take some wind pressure off the chest. We would definitely have fitted a tail tidy and a slip-on or better still, a full system, to get that CP3 engine singing. Whether we would then go for a full tune, perhaps, most likely with Woolich Racing Log Box D-CANv3.\
Riding the YZF-R9 on our local twisties was a blast, any excuse to ride once the suspension was sorted.
We had no reason to pillion anyone so would have fitted a single seat cowl and deleted the pillion pegs and hangars, and we would have taken off those ugly orange reflectors that have to be fitted to the forks. Aside from that, we really would not change a thing to the bike, so it is basically spot-on…
As the kilometres increased the CP3 became smoother and revvier, the gearbox shift nicer and the clutch action too. On the chassis side, everything was working nicely. We had softened it up at both ends for the road and it really was excellent – you could hit bumps, into or out of corners, no issue.
Being a great street sportsbike, you would think that there would be a tiny bit of storage under the seat, but nothing! So those wanting to do trips or commute may need to fit luggage. We just used our Ventura seat bag all of the time but there are other options, like the Ventura Bike-Pack system for R9.
The Bridgestone RS11 tyres have been brilliant. I also sampled the bike on Dunlop Q5 tyres at SMSP at the Dunlop launch, and they were also good on the bike and I would have tried those next once the Bridgstones wore out, which was looking like at around the 5000km mark, we predict.
Overall, a great little middle sized sportsbike that is a weapon on track days, a blast on the road and easy to ride on the urban streets. It looks great, was reliable aside from a small glitch when the TC stopped working (we will get back to you when Yamaha let us know what caused that) and a fun and engaging daily rider. I would personally choose one of these over an R1 for the road…
Check out our track test of the YZF-R9 here… And Staff Bikes articles here…
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: $23,699 R/A
Warranty: Three-years unlimited km
Colours: Team Yamaha Blue, Raven
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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