Media Spotlight the Yamaha MT-07: What the Reviews Are Saying
A sharp, torquey middleweight naked bike that brings balance to comfort and performance — with an $8,599 starting price / Apr 28, 2026 /
Media coverage around Yamaha’s MT-07 continues to point to the same core theme: You don’t need a literbike or a decked out cruiser to have serious fun on the street. In this middleweight naked class, writers and creators keep circling back to the MT-07 as the best looking, best performing “balanced” do-it-all ride that’s light, approachable, and entertaining in real-world riding.
Time after time, pro test riders for top media outlets agree, the MT-07 continues to define the segment, not because of its low entry price, but because it delivers the most performance with meaningful hardware and tech upgrades that are typically reserved for more expensive bikes, while delivering Yamaha’s reputable durability and dependability.
"At just over $8,599 MSRP, Yamaha keeps this thing priced for real-world riders." — Motorcyclist
"Still, it is the most fun per dollar you can buy under $10,000, at least in my opinion." — Chase on Two Wheels
"Yamaha has wisely safeguarded the rambunctious personality of its beloved MT-07 while elevating the whole package [...] and more for $8,599." — Motorcycle.com
The media reviews define the MT-07 as a benchmark Hyper Naked because it nails what most riders want on most days. It’s light and compact, has usable power, and stays simple and approachable. It works as a daily commuter and a fun backroad bike without being intimidating or overly complicated.
"The MT-07 remains the undisputed king of the parallel-twin middleweight segment. It is Yamaha's perfect execution of size, speed, and simplicity." — Top Speed
"The MT-07 is the two-wheeled equivalent of your favorite pair of riding jeans—just the right mix of performance, comfort, and everyday usability." — Motorcyclist
"A capable canyon partner, commuter, and all-around road bike [...] that doesn't compromise that youthful flair that attracted so many riders to the platform in the first place." — Motorcycle.com
The CP2 engine’s punchy low-end torque, playful midrange, and an engaging character makes the MT-07 feel lively at everyday speeds. The engine’s reputation for reliability and broad usability continues to anchor the bike’s appeal.
● "Fire up the MT-07's 689cc CP2 parallel twin and you're greeted with a raspy, rev-happy soundtrack that begs you to twist the throttle." — Motorcyclist
● "The heart and soul of the MT-07 is none other than the liquid-cooled 689cc Parallel-twin CP2 engine […] punchy, linear torque that's become this mill's hallmark trait." — Motorcycle.com
● "The CP2 has been in service since 2015 [...] and it has made a name for itself for its dependability." — Top Speed
The bike offers easy and eager steering character with city-friendly maneuverability, while the stiffer chassis and reliable front end deliver feedback and stability.
"The Yamaha's handling is akin to a golden retriever's personality: it's easygoing, with eager-to-please light steering [...] Meanwhile, the sturdier fork provides far better front-end feedback." — Motorcycle.com
"The increase in rigidity is easy to feel—you notice it almost immediately when you ride it. The front suspension and contact feel are a lot better." — Motorcyclist
"Another cool thing I really like about this motorcycle is the comfort. The suspension really does a nice job of gliding over the road bumps." — Adam Waheed
The MT-07 is repeatedly praised for features that make the bike feel more composed and premium, while the electronics package keeps it competitive with other modern motorcycles in the class.
"A new chassis, new swingarm, ride-by-wire throttle, new electronic rider aids and new inverted forks are among the biggest changes Yamaha has made to the MT-07." — RoadRacing World
"We have this mode button that allows you to toggle through the global riding modes [...] There's also Bluetooth connectivity and vehicle function, YRC settings, YRC modes, and now you can customize your settings. We have adjustable combined engine power and throttle mode maps and traction control. Very nice that Yamaha has imported these features on this bike." — Adam Waheed
"Yamaha is not playing around when it comes to the dash game. We've got a 7-inch one here. It looks fantastic.” — Chase on Two Wheels
In summary, reviews consistently pointed to these key factors in MT-07:
● Unmatched value in the middleweight naked class
● A well-balanced bike that’s approachable, simple, with “just enough” performance
● Reliable and dependable CP2 engine with exciting torque characteristics
● Stable, confidence-inspiring handling
● An impressive chassis with a premium feel and quality tech
