2022 Yamaha MT-10 and MT-10 SP | First Look Review

Yamaha’s “Hyper Naked” lineup includes six MT models, with MT standing for “Master of Torque.” The range starts with the entry-level MT-03 and works its way up to the MT-07, MT-09, MT-09 SP, MT-10, and MT-10 SP. All have been updated recently, and the 2022 Yamaha MT-10 and MT-10 SP, the latter being offered in the U.S. for the first time, are the latest to get upgraded.

2022 Yamaha MT-10

Our last test of the MT-10 was in 2017 (when it was known as the FZ-10), and it proved to be an exciting, versatile sit-up sportbike, even performing well as a sport-tourer when accessorized with a taller windscreen, a comfort seat, and luggage.

For 2022, the MT-10 gets a more stripped-down look, with unnecessary bodywork removed. Enlarged intake ducts mounted on either side of the fuel tank cover increase efficiency while enhancing the bike’s aggressive stance. New twin-eye mono-focus LED headlights and LED position lights above the headlights combine with a more compact nose assembly to minimize overhang. Separate high and low beam units are said to project a powerful, even beam with softer light at the edges.

Yamaha has also improved the MT-10’s ergonomics with a reshaped fuel tank, a revised rider triangle that enhances the feeling of sitting “in” the bike, and a more comfortable seat.

Also new is a 6-axis IMU and a full suite of electronic rider aids originally developed for the YZF-R1. The system includes lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, lift (wheelie) control, engine brake management, and ABS, all with multiple levels or modes. Each can be adjusted independently, or the Yamaha Ride Control system provides four ride modes with presets for each one. The MT-10 is also equipped with an up/down quickshifter.

Yamaha has refined the MT-10’s liquid-cooled, 998cc CP4 inline-Four with new fuel injection settings and revised intake and exhaust systems that are said to deliver a more torquey, street-focused engine character. A new airbox with three differing-length intake ducts tuned to resonate harmoniously at varying engine speeds creates a unique intake roar that enhances the overall riding experience. Sound is heightened further by new Acoustic Amplifier Grilles positioned on the front left and right of the fuel tank, transmitting the tuned induction sound directly to the rider.

Like the YZF-R1, the new MT-10 features a throttle-by-wire system with the Accelerator Position Sensor Grip (APSG), which uses a spring, slider, and gear mechanism to produce varying degrees of resistance to recreate a natural throttle feel during use. The rider can also change throttle response characteristics by adjusting the PWR (Power delivery mode) between four different power modes.

Originally developed to cope with the demands of high-horsepower superbikes under race conditions, the MT-10’s aluminum Deltabox frame uses the engine as a stressed member to minimize weight. Equipped with a long aluminum swingarm while still maintaining a compact 55.3-inch wheelbase, the chassis is designed to deliver agile yet stable handling in a wide variety of low- and high-speed riding conditions.

Fully adjustable KYB suspension can be tailored to rider preferences. The triple-disc brakes, with dual 320mm floating discs with 4-piston radial calipers in front and a single 220mm disc with a 2-piston caliper out back, get upgraded for 2022 with the addition of a Brembo radial brake master cylinder. Also new is a 4.2-inch color TFT display.

The 2022 Yamaha MT-10 will be offered in two color options: Cyan Storm or Matte Raven Black. It will be available from dealers in March 2022 for an MSRP of $13,999.

2022 Yamaha MT-10 SP

Joining the MT-10 for 2022 is the up-spec MT-10 SP, which replaces the manually adjustable KYB suspension with Öhlins semi-active suspension and is offered in a YZF-R1M-inspired colorway with premium styling accents.

The new MT-10 SP is the first production motorcycle to be fitted with the Öhlins’ next-generation electronically controlled suspension employing the latest spool valve damping. This state-of-the-art technology provides an even greater range of damping adjustments and a higher degree of response.

Riders can choose between three semi-active damping modes (A-1 [Sport], A-2 [Intermediate], A-3 [Tour]), as well as three manual settings (M-1, M-2, M-3). When any of the automatic modes are selected the system adjusts rebound and compression damping continuously to match the current running conditions, ensuring the most appropriate settings are always in play.

Manual mode allows precise electronic adjustment of compression and rebound damping for both the front fork and rear shock. Managed through the YRC menu, the suspension can be tailored to suit the riding style or environment.

The MT-10 SP is also equipped with an exclusive color-matched lower fairing for a more aggressive race-bred look, while also directing more air to the oil cooler at speed. It’s also equipped with braided steel brake lines, providing a high level of feel at the lever and more resistance to fade.

The 2022 Yamaha MT-10 SP is available in Liquid Metal/Raven. It will be available from dealers in May 2022 for an MSRP of $16,899.

For more information or to find a Yamaha dealer near you, visit yamahamotorsports.com.