We’ve said before that the Yamaha MT-09 is probably one of the best bikes in Yamaha’s lineup. While the MT-09 isn’t the fastest model available on the market (or Yamaha bikes in general), it’s a very good option in the $10,000 price range. Plus, there’s a reason its iconic naked sports bike look has stood the test of time.
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Earlier this year, we rounded up everything you need to know about the 2024 Yamaha MT-09 and there was a lot to be excited about. For example, for those who love to rumble their bikes, there’s an improved acoustic amplifier, new smartphone integration features and an updated Smart Key system. That said, Yamaha proved the surprises aren’t over yet, unveiling a new semi-automatic transmission system (Y-AMT) for the latest generation MT-09 bike.
While the Y-AMT system has just left the factory, it’s important to note that this isn’t Yamaha’s first time employing an automated manual transmission system: the motorcycle manufacturer launched the Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift (YCC-S) almost 20 years ago, back in 2006. However, Yamaha claims that the new Y-AMT system is groundbreaking in more ways than one.
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How does the Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMT semi-automatic transmission work?
Yamaha has revealed all the interesting details about the Y-AMT automated manual transmission system on the MT-09 website. The obvious difference externally is the new switch for the transmission. The most important switch is located at the top of the right handlebar. By toggling the AT/MT mode button, you can choose whether to ride with manual or automatic transmission.
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When in Manual Transmission (MT) mode, gears can be changed easily with a seesaw switch on the left handlebar pod. In Automatic Transmission (AT) mode, you can choose between a sporty (D+) or soft (D) ride feel by pressing the mode button at the bottom of the pod. Yamaha says the transmission adjusts gear shifts “without compromising sporty performance.” To see which mode you’re in, look at the top right corner of the 5-inch TFT screen.
Meanwhile, Yamaha also announced that owners of the new MT-09 Y-AMT should be prepared to say goodbye to the clutch lever and shift pedal. This will no doubt cause a bit of a learning curve for some riders, but it could result in an overall less stressful riding experience for less experienced riders. Apart from this particular variant of the MT-09, other models to be launched in 2025 are also likely to feature the new semi-automatic transmission system. One thing is for sure, Yamaha riders who like to travel long distances may want to try out this transmission.
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