2020 Yamaha MT-07 ABS

If the MT-10 is the most powerful Master of Torque of Japan’s “Dark Side,” then the MT-07 is the apprentice with its 689cc liquid-cooled DOHC twin-cylinder engine. The 2020 Yamaha MT-07 remains an extremely affordable naked bike ($7,599 MSRP) that is right for those looking to bomb down the twisties at a spirited pace, and set more than a respectable speed for freeway or street riding with its torque-rich engine and lightweight steel frame. A quick glance down at the full-LCD instrument panel will tell you if you are (or aren’t) obeying the law.

In 2018, the MT-07 had undergone a makeover. The change from the FZ to the MT name being one of them—bringing the “MT” name stateside. The 2018 updates included improved suspension, reworked bodywork, and updated looks of the tank, tail, radiator shrouds, front fender, seat, and headlight. Our test rider even claimed that “the Yamaha MT-07 (née FZ-07) is a motorcycle destined to be canonized as one of The Great Standard Bikes of the 21st Century.” That claim cannot be taken lightly even, we would imagine, for 2020.

For 2020, Yamaha has replaced the 2019 Breaker Cyan colorway with Team Yamaha Blue. Otherwise Ice Fluo and Matte Raven Black remain options to choose from. Price remains unchanged at $7,599.

With the introduction of the MT-03, the 2020 Yamaha MT-07 moves up a slot in the Masters of Torque hierarchy. Instead of being presented as an entry point in the MT family, it’s now a step-up model. Thanks to its friendly yet capable crossplane crankshaft twin-cylinder CP2 powerplant, the MT-07 is happy to cruise around town casually, while being ready to pounce in the canyons at a moment’s notice.

The handling on the MT-07 is responsive, and it weighs in at just over 400 pounds with its 3.7-gallon tank filled. That works in its favor as both an urban and sporting motorcycle. Yamaha helps the MT-07 embrace its multi-purpose capabilities with suspension that suited toward a rider who wants comfort on city streets, as well as a bit of cush in the twisties. Although the MT-07 is not a committed sport motorcycle, it is no slouch in the corners thanks to its light weight, sporting geometry, and accomplished motor.

With a great burble thanks to the 270-degree crank firing sequence, the 2020 Yamaha MT-07 is a great commuter motorcycle (a claimed 58 mpg), fun to knock around town on, and ready to ambush a lazy rider of a larger motorcycle on the tightest roads.