India Yamaha launches new MT-09 for Rs 10.88 lakh

Firming up its premium motorcycle portfolio for the domestic market, India Yamaha today rolled out the new, globally acclaimed MT-09 model at a price tag of Rs 10,88,122 (ex-showroom, Delhi).

The MT-09, which is powered by liquid-cooled, three-cylinder, 847cc engine that produces maximum output of 113bhp (at 10,000 rpm) and peak torque of 88Nm (at 8,500 rpm), sits atop the upper end of the midsize motorcycle segment and below the 1000cc superbike category.

Imported as a completely built unit (CBU) for sale in India, the Yamaha MT-09 is positioned at premium riders who are looking to upgrade from their midsize motorcycles (250cc-800cc) to more powerful motorcycle. The MT-09 also strategically attracts the existing owners of the large-capacity motorcycles (1000cc – 1600cc or even bigger) who are unwilling to take out their heavy models in city traffic, and are instead looking for a lightweight, performance bike easy to manoeuvre for quick rides.

Weighing at 193kg (wet weight including full tank of 14 litres), the MT-09 offers sharp handling features along with edgy design cues derived from Yamaha’s multi-performance neo-roadster concept, which, according to the company, is in sync with the global MT series design direction.

Yamaha’s midsize MT series motorcycles are highly successful in the developed European and American markets.

Commenting on the launch of the new MT-09, Roy Kurian, senior vice-president (Sales and Marketing), Yamaha Motor India Sales, said, “Yamaha’s technology is known globally to offer the desired nimbleness and edge which motorcyclists seek from a two wheeler. It is exciting to announce the introduction of the new MT-09 in the Indian market shortly after its successful run globally. The new MT-09 will reiterate Yamaha’s commitment to offer in India the very best mix of Yamaha’s superior expertise coupled with its unique flair for innovation. The new MT-09 has been constructed with excellent rigidity balance that contributes towards the bike's agile handling performance and power delivery.”

It can be recalled that the Yamaha MT-09 was first unveiled by the company at the 2016 Auto Expo in Greater Noida. The model, however, did not take off among the premium motorcycle customers last year.

The Japanese bikemaker also retails the YZF-R1 as its second CBU offering in India. The 197bhp, 998cc track-focused superbike retails for Rs 24.74 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).