Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023 vs. Yamaha MT-09 2018

The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023 and the Yamaha MT-09 2018 are both naked bikes from Yamaha, but they have some notable differences in terms of technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the technical specifications, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023 is equipped with a 119 HP inline engine, while the Yamaha MT-09 2018 has a slightly less powerful 115 HP inline engine. The MT-09 SP also has a higher torque of 93 Nm compared to the 87.5 Nm of the MT-09. Both bikes have a fuel injection system, liquid cooling, and a 3-cylinder engine configuration.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature a telescopic front fork and a monoshock rear suspension. However, the MT-09 SP stands out with high-quality suspension elements from KYB and Öhlins, which provide better performance and adjustability compared to the standard suspension on the MT-09.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023

The chassis of both bikes is made of aluminum and features a double tube frame design. This provides a good balance of rigidity and weight reduction for agile handling.

When it comes to braking, both bikes have dual disc front brakes with a diameter of 298 mm. This ensures strong and reliable stopping power.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the MT-09 SP 2023 offers more features compared to the MT-09 2018. The MT-09 SP is equipped with ABS, curve ABS, ride-by-wire, quick shifter, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie control. On the other hand, the MT-09 2018 only has ABS, quick shifter, and traction control.

Moving on to dimensions and weights, both bikes have the same tire widths and diameters (120 mm/17 inches front and 180 mm/17 inches rear). The MT-09 SP has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1430 mm compared to the 1440 mm of the MT-09. The seat height is also slightly higher on the MT-09 SP at 825 mm compared to the 815 mm of the MT-09. In terms of weight, the MT-09 SP is slightly lighter at 189 kg (with ABS) compared to the 193 kg (with ABS) of the MT-09.

Yamaha MT-09 2018

In terms of strengths, the MT-09 SP 2023 offers an extremely agile and powerful engine, a comfortable riding position, high-quality suspension elements from KYB and Öhlins, a good shifter with blipper, and a distinctive appearance. On the other hand, the MT-09 2018 has a harmonious design and character, smooth wheels, lively handling, a comfortable seat position even for tall riders, and an incredibly powerful engine.

However, both bikes also have their weaknesses. The MT-09 SP 2023 has a small TFT screen, a poorly placed horn at the front, and a wide turning circle. The MT-09 2018 can feel exhausting when ridden at high speeds, requires more riding skills compared to other mid-range naked bikes, has a less satisfying rear wheel traction, and lacks precision.

In conclusion, while both the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2023 and the Yamaha MT-09 2018 are powerful and agile naked bikes, the MT-09 SP offers some improvements in terms of suspension, rider assistance systems, and overall performance. However, the MT-09 2018 still has its own strengths and can be a great option for riders looking for a harmonious design and a powerful engine.