Now in its third generation, Yamaha’s middleweight sport-tourer — now called the Tracer 9 GT — is new from the ground up. It has a larger, more powerful engine, a new frame, and a state-of-the-art electronics package that includes semi-active suspension. With these updates comes a higher price, and MSRP is now $14,899.
As the platform has evolved so has its name, starting with the original FJ-09 in 2015 and continuing with the Tracer 900 GT in 2019. For the latest update, the Tracer 9 GT gets a lightweight aluminum frame made using the latest casting technology to strategically reduce bulk. Like its predecessors, the new Tracer uses the inline triple from the MT-09, which is lighter, more fuel-efficient, and complies with Euro 5 emissions standards. An increase in displacement (890cc, up from 847cc) should yield more power and torque, though Yamaha does not quote figures. D-Mode now offers four presets for varying throttle response and power. The 6-speed transmission has an assist-and-slipper clutch and a new quickshifter.
The focus on weight reduction continues to the longer, lighter, and stiffer swingarm, resulting in a slightly increased wheelbase, which should improve stability and traction, and new forged aluminum wheels also reduce unsprung mass for improved handling. Curb weight is now 485 pounds, up 9 pounds from last year’s model.
The use of new technology wasn’t limited to design and development. The new Tracer 9 GT is fitted with an integrated electronic control package, enabling Yamaha to incorporate a number of new features. This includes a 6-axis IMU that continually feeds data to the new KYB semi-active suspension, which electronically adjusts rebound and compression damping in the fork and rebound in the rear shock in real-time to suit the terrain and conditions. It also stabilizes the chassis under braking and acceleration and offers two modes (Sport and Comfort).
The IMU also feeds data to the new rider aids which can be adjusted to preference or completely turned off, these include lean angle-sensitive traction control, slide control, wheelie control, and cornering lights. The ABS is newly equipped with a brake control system, and riders can choose between two levels of intervention. Yamaha’s YCC-T throttle-by-wire system now includes Accelerator Position Sensor Grip (ASPG), which uses a sensor and a magnet to detect throttle opening and send corresponding signals to the throttle valves. ASPG uses a spring, slider, and gear to produce variable resistance to the grip creating a natural throttle feel. An additional D-Mode has been added providing four preset running modes that adjust throttle response and power. Cruise control and heated grips are standard.
As with the previous model, dual 298 mm discs provide the bulk of the stopping power, now with the addition of a new radial Nissin master cylinder, which promises a more linear supply of hydraulic pressure for excellent controllability.
Riders of various sizes will appreciate the Tracer 9 GT’s new adjustable footpegs, which along with the dual-height seat and adjustable handlebar on the previous model allow ergonomics to be customized.
With cruise control, a large windscreen, and standard hard saddlebags, the 2021 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is ready to hit the road. It’s available in Liquid Metal or Redline for $14,899, and it’s in dealerships now.
2021 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT Specs
Base Price: $14,899
Website: yamahamotorsports.com
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder w/ 4 valves per cyl.
Displacement: 890cc
Bore x Stroke: 78.0mm x 62.1mm
Transmission: 6-speed; multiplate assist and slipper clutch
Final Drive: Chain
Wheelbase: 59.1 in.
Rake/Trail: 25.0 degrees/4.3 in.
Seat Height: 31.9/32.5 in.
Wet Weight: 485 lbs. (claimed, does not include side cases)
Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gals.
It states it is 18 lbs. lighter but stats. show it 9lbs. heavier?
Our earlier version of this story compared Yamaha’s claimed wet weight (485 lbs.) to the actual wet weight we recorded with our 2019 test bike (503 lbs.), which is where the 18-lb difference comes from. You are correct — Yamaha’s claimed wet weight for the 2020 model (474 lbs.) is 9 lbs. lighter than the 2021 model.
I read it saying plainly (485llbs without sidecases) …maybe they list the actual weight of the motorcycle AS delivered which IS with sidecases…if so it is only fair comparing to previous iteration ALSO with sidecases….yes?
I think one has to CAREFULLY actually READ all the words! In one place CLEARLY they say “485 llbs WITHOUT sidecases….”
I think 503 lbs was with bags and 474 lbs is wet weight without. I suspect the 485 lbs is without the bags
Damn, I just told Ken Lee that I wanted a new Gold Wing. But here the Tracer GT is almost 300 lbs lighter. I really love my R1200RT, but at 66YO I sometimes have to be careful with its weight (700 lb). I have more thinking to do.
Hi Greg! That’s so funny as I just read your comment in that article, haha! I admire your honesty! Keep us posted as to what you decide to do. Have you looked at the Kawi Versys, I think one is the 650 and the other is the 1000. Don’t quote me. I really like the Kawi (we have an older 636 in our garage). Best wishes, Patrick
Is it just me, or is this a lot like a Triumph Tiger 900? Not a bad thing…
But when will it be available to buy?? I wanted a 2021 MT-09, dealers can’t get them till July or August!!! This was in March, so I bought a KTM 890 Duke R and I’m one happy cycle rider.
Golden Carper—-83 yr old sport bike rider.
Yamaha HAD claimed the non GT tracer 900 to be 485llbs wet then I see the weight of the non GT dropped to 469 wet which is about 15llbs lighter …..So IF those figures are right then I imagine it remained similar weight savings between the GT models also….I mean unless for some biarre reason they made the new luggage seriously heavier?
I passed on this bike last year because of it’s minimal laden weight limit. I need 400+lbs for my wife and me. Did this get any better? dt