2025 Yamaha R9 Review: I have driven several Yamaha R-series bikes – the R3, R7 and my favourite the R6, which still graces my garage. So when I first drove the 2025 Yamaha R9, expectations were high but there were some doubts too. But as soon as I started the bike and gave it some throttle, all doubts were dispelled. The bike felt extremely balanced and confident. There was no hesitation or learning curve to ride it. As the speed increased, the R9 became even more fun and in control.
Style and Colour Options – A design that wins hearts at first glance
The Yamaha R9 2025 is available in three great colour options –
- Intensity White/Redline
- Team Yamaha Blue
- Matte Raven Black
I personally liked the Intensity White/Redline the most – it looks sporty and sharp, but not too flashy.
Yamaha’s proven strategy – MT to R conversion
Just like the R7, this time too Yamaha has adopted the formula of converting the MT platform into a sports form. Based on the MT-09, this new Yamaha R9 is a track-ready bike but is also perfect for everyday riding. At a starting price of $12,499, it is a great alternative to high-end bikes like the R1, which costs $18,499.
Engine – Same powerful CP3, but with sporty tuning
This bike is powered by Yamaha’s famous 890cc CP3 inline-triple engine, which is derived from the MT-09, but with special sports tuning. This engine produces 117 horsepower and 69 lb-ft of torque. Power delivery is smooth and linear – that is, from low-end to high revs, the throttle is always responsive.
Aerodynamics – Sharp to look at, even sharper to ride
The R9’s body is inspired by MotoGP and has inbuilt winglets. These aren’t just for looks – they generate downforce at high-speeds, keeping the bike’s front end stable.
Built for the road, ready for the track
Although we tested the R9 on tracks like Sonoma Raceway, Yamaha’s focus was to make it for street riders. This is not a hardcore track machine like the R1, but a bike that can be ridden every day and even go to the occasional track day.
New Frame and Chassis – Improved Handling
The R9’s frame is lighter than the MT-09 (2.1 pounds less), and its geometry has been sharpened. The shorter wheelbase, lower rake angle and 50/50 weight distribution make it super stable, even in tight corners.
High-End Suspension and Braking
The bike has fully adjustable KYB suspension, and braking is handled by Brembo’s Stylema radial calipers and master cylinder. This makes even hard braking smooth and controlled.
Advanced Electronics – Smart Riding Experience
The R9 features Yamaha’s IMU-based rider aids –
- Cornering ABS
- Traction Control
- Slide Control
- Wheelie Control
- Engine Brake Control
All of these can be controlled via Yamaha Ride Control (YRC), which has Sport, Street, Rain and 2 Custom modes. There are also 4 additional modes for track riding, and the rear ABS can also be turned off if desired.
TFT Display and Smartphone Connectivity
The 5-inch colour TFT display gives the bike a very premium look. It also has a lap timer with a track theme. You can connect a smartphone via Bluetooth, Garmin StreetCross navigation is available, and the Yamaha app lets you track bike settings and data.
Gearbox – Precise and fast
The 6-speed transmission comes with a slip/assist clutch and an up/down quickshifter. A GP style reverse gear shift pattern can also be set if desired.
A perfect sports bike for every rider
Whether you are a track rider or a weekend street sports enthusiast, the Yamaha R9 2025 will not disappoint you. It is a bike that instills rider confidence without being too aggressive.
Ergonomics – Perfect balance of comfort and performance
The R9 has a slightly lower and narrower seat than the R6. The handle and foot pegs are designed in such a way that even long rides feel comfortable while still maintaining the sporty thrill.
Conclusion – Yamaha R9 stuns everyone
After my first ride, it was clear that Yamaha has repeated its magic this time too. The balance of power, technology and style in the 2025 Yamaha R9 makes it a perfect mid-size supersport. It is not only a great upgrade for R3 or R7 riders but is also ideal for those who are entering the supersport segment for the first time.
Yamaha R9 2025 Key Specifications:
- Price: $12,499 (approx. ₹10.5 lakh)
- Engine: 890cc, inline-triple, liquid-cooled
- Power: 117 horsepower @ 10,000 rpm
- Torque: 69 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm
- Gearbox: 6-speed, slip/assist clutch, quickshifter
- Seat Height: 32.7 inches
- Weight (wet weight): 430 pounds
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.7 gallons
- Features: Smartphone connectivity, ride modes, track theme TFT display
- Brakes: Brembo Stylema radial calipers
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