I very clearly remember the first time I rode the MT-09 back when it launched at The Farm. I pulled back into the pits, laughing at how much fun the bike was, and thought to myself, “This engine belongs in a proper sportsbike.” Its punchy torque, linear pull, and that characteristic crossplane triple sound felt like it was just begging for clip-ons and fairings. Yamaha teased us for years…

Yamaha gave us the MT-09SP with its high-spec suspension and electronics, a wicked nakedbike. Then the XSR900 and XSR900GP with retro styling, and while they were brilliant street bikes, they never quite scratched that supersport itch for me. But now, with the R9, Yamaha has finally delivered on what so many riders, including myself, have wanted – a fully fledged YZF-R sportsbike powered by that magnificent CP3 engine, but friendly for the road.

A friendly YZF-R6, (which is still available as the YZF-R6 RACE for $20,249 ready for the track, on slicks), the R9 joins Yamaha’s huge YZF street legal sports lineup of the YZF-R15M, YZF-R3, YZF-R1, YZF-R1M, YZF-R7LA and YZF-R7HO (click on any of those to read our test on that bike) … But the R9 is the first sports triple. Bring it on, baby! We headed to SMSP for the Aussie launch, the day was run for Yamaha Motor Australia by MotoSchool, and they were fantastic, highly recommended…

THE RIDE
The first thing that struck me as I rolled out onto the track was just how different the R9 felt compared to the MT-09 or XSR900GP. This isn’t just an MT-09 with fairings bolted on. The R9 feels like its own model entirely, with a purpose and attitude far removed from its naked sibling. The chassis tuning, geometry changes, electronics calibration, and ergonomics come together to make it feel like a genuine supersport machine, not quite razor sharp and stiff, but very good on track and easier to ride…

Where the XSR900 GP is a retro street sportsbike with a fairing slapped on for styling cred, the R9 is a thoroughbred track-day ready contender. It’s a proper step up from the R7 and fills the void left by the legendary R6, offering something different – more midrange punch, easier rideability, and real-world versatility while still retaining that racetrack soul, and after testing it, I reckon it would be easy to set it up as a serious track bike, given that some small suspension changes really moved it forward that way.

At 187cm tall, I usually fold up awkwardly on supersport bikes, but the R9’s ergonomics surprised me. The footpegs in their lowest position offered plenty of room, and the ‘bars are slightly higher and flatter than a traditional supersport, giving it a neutral yet committed stance. Everything just fits. The seat is comfortable, the tank sculpted perfectly for knee grip, and the overall riding position felt more relaxed than an R6 yet still aggressive enough for serious track work. The bike should fit a broad range of shapes, there is plenty of room there to move around, and it definitely has that YZF familiarity.

I managed a solid 40 laps spread over four sessions, and despite a few injury limitations on my part these days – too many busted wrists over the years and too many hamburgers lately – I settled into a consistent 1:03 lap pace, with my quickest lap a flat 1:02. That’s about a second off my usual testing pace here, but considering I was nursing my wrists and dealing with occasional whiskey throttle moments, the R9’s forgiving nature really let me get away with it. I’ll pop a video on YouTube soon.

I found myself grinning inside my helmet lap after lap. The best way I can describe it is that it felt like riding a bigger R3, with grunt. That same nimble, flickable feel, but with the torque-rich triple engine launching you out of corners with authority. Unlike the old R6 engine, which is a true race motor so needs to be kept screaming at high revs to stay in the performance window, the R9 pulls cleanly from lower in the rev range thanks to its broad, linear power delivery. You can short shift it, ride it lazily, or wind it out and attack – it’s flexible and confidence inspiring, but it does reach that limiter early.

Underneath lies the proven 890cc CP3 engine, essentially the MT-09’s unit but retuned via mapping and ignition changes to suit the R9’s sporting intentions. Internally it remains unchanged, but the difference in feel is noticeable. It’s snappier, livelier, and more exhilarating than the current MT-09, almost reminiscent of the raw, aggressive original MT-09 from a decade ago.

The torque is broad, pulling cleanly from second, third, or fourth gear exits. On Sydney South’s shorter straight, the gearing felt ideal. Top speed? Hard to say without a proper long straight, but with gearing 15 per cent taller than the MT-09, I’d guess around 240km/h. On track, you do hit the rev limiter fairly quickly, but it’s not an issue once you get a feel for the engine.

It’s an engine with character, a triple that spins up with urgency yet remains composed and easy to modulate. The traction control was working hard out of a few corners, but that is because I was just holding it wide open and relying on the TC. Feeding the power in progressively revealed a very nice tractable delivery and good rear tyre control.

The chassis is an aluminium Deltabox frame paired with fully adjustable KYB suspension front and rear. The front runs USD 43mm forks, while the rear is a KYB monoshock with remote preload adjustment, handy for quick changes trackside. Out of the crate, the suspension is on the softer side, making it less tiring to ride compared to a rock-hard supersport machine. The negative is it does get a bit loose when up near the limit, and as grip and speed increases, so too will the need to stiffen up the suspension at both ends, but you would need to be pretty serious, as it is, it will do for track days and club level racing I reckon…

We only went up a little in preload front and rear to suit my 100kg with gear, and that small change made the bike livelier and more responsive. The R9 carries more frame flex than an R6, which makes it forgiving and comfortable, yet retains enough stiffness to attack turns with confidence. Despite chilly track temperatures limiting front-end feel early on, it was communicative enough to push hard. In warmer conditions with hot sticky rubber and dialled suspension, it will reveal its full potential.

Speaking of electronics, Yamaha has kitted the R9 out with a trickle-down of the first-gen R1M package…

On upshifts at full throttle, there were a few times the front got wild, near tank-slapping, so I would be fitting a high-quality steering damper if I owned an R9. The Bridgestone Battlax RS11 tyres warmed up well despite cool conditions and offered confidence on corner entry, edge grip and drive out, these are awesome tyres and I’ve raced on them in the past. The SpinForged wheels keep unsprung weight down, look great and come straight from the YZF-R6 RACE.

Braking is handled by Brembo Stylema calipers up front with a Brembo radial master-cylinder. Braking performance is decent, but not as jaw-dropping as some Stylema setups I’ve used. The initial bite requires a firmer squeeze, and there’s a hint of ABS valving sponginess, but the six-axis IMU-based ABS system never intruded harshly. We ran with rear ABS switched off, which I’d recommend for track use, but front ABS intervention was minimal. I also noticed the clutch take-up was abrupt and right at the end of the lever travel, making pit exits a little tricky, but on track it didn’t matter thanks to the flawless up and down quick-shifter.

Speaking of electronics, Yamaha has kitted the R9 out with a trickle-down of the first-gen R1M package from a decade ago. It has a six-axis IMU enabling 9 level traction control (TCS), 3 level slide control (SCS), 3 level lift control (LSS), brake control (BC), engine brake management (EBM) plus cruise control, variable speed limiter, and multiple ride modes – Sport, Street, Rain, and two Custom plus four Track modes. It has it all, and a new style switchblock pair to help navigate it, and the Y-Connect app.

I tried a mix today, see the settings in the dash photos above. In full attack mode, it’s lively and urgent without being intimidating, but I preferred Power 2 rather than 1, as the throttle was nicer on initial opening, allowing me to keep the bike more balanced and retain rear grip off turns… One awesome feature is the Y-TRAC race setting complemented by a virtual pitboard feature that displays instructions and information from pit crew to rider in real time! You can also drop a pin on a GPS location on the track you are on, and the dash will do your lap times and display it on the dash each lap!

“The 2025 YZF-R9 is a friendly R6 with a broader power curve, stronger midrange, and easier ergonomics for real-world riding”…

The TFT dash is clear and intuitive, with four street themes and one track layout. Switchgear is typical Yamaha – functional and logical – although I struggled to change ride modes on the move, even with throttle shut. I’ll dig deeper when we test it on the road next month. The triple-clamp looks straight off the R1, with neat M1 MotoGP-style grooves, and there’s a GYTR race triple available for trackday warriors.

The R9 looks like a bigger R7 or smaller R1, slotting perfectly into the YZF-R family. The fairings are sharp and aggressive, the LED headlight compact and menacing. It looks every bit the middleweight supersport weapon Yamaha needed to fill the void left by the discontinued (road anyway) R6.

CONCLUSION
Overall, the 2025 YZF-R9 is a friendly R6 with a broader power curve, stronger midrange, and easier ergonomics for real-world riding. On track, it’s fast, confidence inspiring, and fun. On the road, it promises to be practical enough for commuting yet thrilling on your favourite twisties, we will find out soon. At $23,199 ride away, it’s not cheap, three grand more than the R6 (but ten grand less than an R1), but you’re getting a bike with true supersport handling, a punchy triple engine, and electronics that rival litre bikes from just a few years ago. For track days, weekend scratching, and even daily duties, it’s a winner. We’ll have a full road test coming in August after our street ride in July…

2025 Yamaha YZF-R9 Specifications

yamaha-motor.com.au

Price: $23,199 R/A
Warranty: Three-years unlimited km
Colours: Team Yamaha Blue, Matt Black, Intensity White/Redline
Claimed Power: 87.5kW@10,000rpm
Claimed Torque: 93Nm@7000rpm
Wet Weight: 195kg
Fuel capacity: 14L
Fuel Consumption (Claimed): N/A
Fuel Consumption (Tested): N/A
Range (Claimed): N/A

Engine: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, Crossplane triple, 78.0mm x 62.1mm bore x stroke, 890cc, 11.5:1 compression, three-into-one exhaust Gearbox: Six speed Clutch: Assist & Slipper Clutch with Quick Shift System (up & down), EFI, three-into-one exhaust.

Chassis: Aluminium Deltabox frame
Rake: 24.7° Trail: 109.2mm
Front Suspension: USD 43mm KYB forks, fully adjustable, 120mm travel, KYB monoshock, fully adjustable with low-speed valve, 117mm travel.
Brakes: Twin 320mm discs with Brembo Stylema four-piston radial calipers, Brembo radial master-cylinder, stainless braided lines, cornering ABS (f), Single 220mm disc with single-piston caliper, ABS (r), rear ABS disconnect for track
Wheels & Tyres: 10-spoke cast alloy wheels, Bridgestone RS11 120/70 – 17 (f), 180/55 – 17 (r) tyres

Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 1420mm
Seat height: 831mm
Ground clearance: 140mm
Overall width: 706mm
Overall length: 2070mm
Overall height: 1181mm

Instruments & Electronics: 5in full-colour TFT dash with four street and one track theme, Y-Connect app compatibility, Garmin StreetCross Nav support, 6-Axis IMU, Traction Control (TCS), Slide Control (SCS), Lift Control (LIF), Brake Control (BCS), Engine Brake Management (EBM), Back Slip Regulator (BSR), Launch Control, Cruise Control, Quick Shifter, Ride Modes (Sport, Street, Rain, Custom x 2), Virtual Pitboard, Variable Speed Limiter, Immobiliser, LED lighting.

The post Track Test | 2025 Yamaha YZF-R9 Review appeared first on Racing, Riding, Motorcycle Reviews, Race bikes, Tech Tips, Rider Training....

The partnership is set to open up opportunities for existing Yamaha sportsbike riders as well as enticing new customers to the R-Family and MT model ranges. “Yamaha is the dominant player in the road bike segment in Australia, with the best-selling road bike in 2024 being the YZF-R7LA,” explains YMA Customer Activation Co-ordinator Jake Belford.

“The next step for these riders will be our all-new YZF-R9 arriving around May. We want to engage all these new Yamaha customers – as well as existing riders – and encourage them to ride in a safe and controlled environment. To achieve this goal we are pleased to provide MotoSchool with high performing, confidence-inspiring motorcycles for coaching duties. We look forward to creating many Kando memories for Yamaha customers,” ends Belford.

“Our entire coaching team is familiar and comfortable on Yamaha’s wide range of sportsbikes,” says MotoSchool CEO and founder Haydan Parker, “which allows us to offer personalised data-driven coaching and a fully immersive experience,” he continues. “Our current events are based at Sydney Motorsport Park, across both the South and Grand Prix Circuits, we have also recently introduced training courses for beginners on the Skid Pan. In 2025 we will expand into a national operation visiting exciting new circuits and track facilities. We welcome enquiries from Yamaha dealers who may want to be involved with customer or staff demo experiences,” ends Haydan.

The post Yamaha and MotoSchool Partner Up For Rider Training appeared first on Racing, Riding, Motorcycle Reviews, Race bikes, Tech Tips, Rider Training....

With a short one hour flight from Melbourne to Canberra, I arrived at the Vibe Hotel in time for the 2025 Yamaha WR250F presentation. That is where I got to lay eyes on the brand new WR250F for the first time. After the presentation we had a bite to eat while discussing some of the features of the WR with the team, before heading to bed. After testing the latest YZ250F, I was keen to try the WR.

The following day was a nice early start as we had a good couple hours drive up to Lyndon Heffernan’s Academy of Off Road Riding property at Bateman’s Bay to put the WR250F through its paces. Arriving at Heffo’s property, we were met with a fleet of 13 brand new 2025 yamaha WR205F’s just waiting for us to throw our legs over and have some fun.

Tech Highlights

Starting off with the updates to the chassis, the new bilateral beam chassis is identical to that of the YZ250F but with new enduro tuned engine mounts, making the WR250F more agile and able handle the different terrains you would find on any enduro course with ease. New aluminium footpeg brackets not only save weight but are also 10mm lower, creating a lower centre of gravity to optimise handling and open up the rider position.

The WR250F comes with a slimmer body thanks to its new slim 7.4 litre fuel tank and its slim radiator shrouds, which offer a comfier rider position and allow more for movement towards the front of the bike, making the WR250F easier to throw around in those tight and twisty sections out in the bush. The new seat is flatter with rounded edges, which increases the degree of freedom for the rider, allowing better movement and comfort during the ride.

The rear guard is redesigned stronger and with a hand held section giving you the perfect spot to pick the rear of the WR250F up if you’re in a sticky situation on a trail.

Fitted with revised 48mm KYB front suspension with 300mm of travel the forks are identical to the YZ250F suspension but tuned for enduro. There is also with a tool-free compression damping adjustment knob on the top of the fork for quick and easy adjustment to suit any terrain.

A revised KYB shock pairs with the front-end of the WR250F for precise control over the varied terrains that you will encounter. This also assists in increasing the traction on the front and rear for a more planted feel and to optimise handling. The 2025 WR250F also has a new lightweight rear wheel with a three-spoke lacing pattern and longer spokes for more flex, with a blue anodized 18 inch Excel rim laced to a 262G lighter reduced width hub.

The upgraded Power Tuner app now comes with a user-friendly interface, with intuitive tuning using a scroll bar to adjust between smooth and aggressive options. Traction control now has three levels of adjustment, there’s also a built in lap timer function and suspension and power tuning set-up advice.

The new multifunction mode switch comes with integrated engine stop and mode selection switch, making it easy to switch between two customisable power modes whilst out on your ride. The second power mode when the blue light controls traction control, making it easier to switch between modes with or without traction control during a ride.

The engine definitely wasn’t left untouched. Revised with a new reduced friction camchain paired with new camshaft sprockets, new camchain guide and new camchain guide stopper all helping to reduce the load and prolong the life of the engine.

The airbox and filter system has been modified allowing more airflow with air coming in from different directions. A curved filter element and optimised case increasing the volume of air flow by 30 per cent. Inside the airbox under the filter, the WR250F has a new funnel shaped design to create a smooth and longer air draw to increase torque.

The WR250F comes with a model specific ECU with optimised fuel and ignition settings. The ECU maps are similar to the YZ250F yet made to suit enduro competition riding and various terrains. Other components changed for light weight include the sub-frame, lightweight throttle cable, a new compact bar pad and a new shorter muffler.

The ride

After being told the WR250F offers more power while being lighter and with a lower centre of gravity, creating a more agile bike, I was eager to put the WR250F through its paces. And as soon as I sat on the WR250F it was clear how slim it is compared to previous models. Heffo’s property was the perfect place to test out the WR250F, with a motocross track, a linked enduro loop, and a flat track all surrounded by an uncountable amount of enduro trails leading in every direction!

After starting the WR250F my first thought was that it is much quieter than anticipated due to its new shorter muffler. At first this put a doubt in my mind, to which I am glad the WR250F changed very quickly. As I twisted the throttle I realised that a quieter exhaust doesn’t mean a less powerful bike.

The 270mm front brake disc and 240mm rear disc are paired with Nissin calipers, providing a strong and even braking power that is easy to control…

After a couple laps warming up on the flat track to familiarise myself with the WR250F it was time to open up the throttle and see what the 2025 WR250F has to offer. I was not disappointed, with plenty of torque and smooth linear power deliverance paired with the new slim body, made attacking the flat track feel as if I was on a motocross bike, the WR handling the soft loamy corners with ease and putting the power to the ground effortlessly on the straights.

The 270mm front brake disc and 240mm rear disc are paired with Nissin calipers, providing a strong and even braking power that is easy to control whether you need to come to a quick stop or to wash off a little bit of speed before entering a corner.

After a few laps on the flat track we headed to a small river crossing, where I really noticed the lower centre of gravity. This made the WR250F easy to control through the rough and rocky uneven terrains.

The WR250F comes with a cable operated clutch. Going through the rocky terrains I noticed the clutch engagement point felt a little off for my riding style, to which the cable made it easy to simply adjust on the fly to change the feel and suit my riding style with ease.

Although there is a larger preference of the hydraulic clutch over a cable, the WR250F’s cable clutch definitely holds its own feeling very light and smooth throughout the entire ride. The smooth and light clutch paired with easy to operate shift cam and six-speed gearbox made changing gears a breeze.

I was able to really put the clutch and gearbox to the test on Heffo’s property on the many hills of various terrains we tackled throughout the day. The 2025 WR250F has plenty of torque and down low power allowing you to ride in a taller gear even uphill under load with minimal clutch slips. Being a 450 rider myself I was very impressed as normally on a 250 I find myself jumping through the gears.

Being a 450 rider myself I was very impressed as normally on a 250 I find myself jumping through the gears…

The KYB front and rear suspension worked hand in hand with the chassis and engine of the WR250F allowing me to tackle anything thrown at me throughout the day. With the easy to adjust compression damper on the forks I was able to tune the forks to suit the terrain in front of me. This also came in handy on our long trail ride at the end of the day. As I started to get a little fatigued, I simply turned down the compression by a couple of clicks making the forks a little softer and less intense to provide a smoother ride.

Unfortunately I didn’t change any of the maps using the Power Tuner app but I did swap through the two standard maps that come stock on the WR250F. The maps that are equipped suited the terrains perfectly. Giving you the option to switch between traction control on with map two and traction control off with map one. I had fun trying out both in the wet and dry sections on the property, finding I was able to tackle any terrain without hesitation.

After having lunch we set out on a trail ride for a couple of hours, during which we tackled many different terrains consisting of rock beds, river crossings, long and tall hills and some single trail twisty sections. The 2025 WR250F tackled all of these obstacles with ease.

Overall, I enjoyed riding the 2025 Yamaha WR250F. With handling that felt like I was riding a motocross bike on a single trail enduro track. I did feel that the 2025 WR250F inspires confidence in its rider with its linear power delivery and wide range six-speed gearbox making it easy to tackle any obstacle in front of you.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced rider the WR250F will put a smile on your face with its user-friendly Power Tuner app, you can easily change the map settings to suit you and push your limits. The comfortable riding position, new slim feeling, lower centre of gravity, plus KYB front and rear suspension make riding effortless and will leave you with a smile on your face.

Read our in-depth tech look and see the video of the new WR250F here…

2025 Yamaha WR250F Specifications 

Yamaha-Motor.com.au

Price: $16,799 Ride Away
Warranty: N/A
Colours: Team Yamaha Blue
Claimed Power: N/A
Claimed Torque: N/A
Wet Weight: 113kg
Fuel capacity: 7.4L
Fuel Consumption Claimed: N/A
Fuel Consumption (measured): N/A

Engine: Liquid-cooled four-stroke, DOHC, four-valve, 77 x 53.6mm bore x stroke, 250cc, 13.8:1 compression, wet sump, EFI, electric start, TCI ignition, five-speed gearbox, cable clutch actuation

Chassis: Frame: Bilateral alloy beam frame.
Rake: N/A Trail: N/A
Suspension: Fully adjustable inverted KYB fork, 300mm travel (f) Fully adjustable KYB shock, 306mm travel. Aluminum swingarm (r).
Brakes: 270mm disc, Nissin two-piston caliper (f), 240mm disc, Nissin single piston caliper (r), Nissin master-cylinders.
Tyres: 90/90 – 21in Dunlop 54R EN91F (f), 140/80 – 18in Dunlop 70R EN91 (r).

Dimensions:
Seat height: 955mm
Ground clearance: 330mm
Overall width: 825mm
Overall Length: 2170mm
Overall height: 1265mm
Wheelbase: 1470mm

Instruments & Electronics: Digital ODO/Speedo instruments, Engine Mapping, Traction Control, Launch Control, Lap timer via Yamaha Power Tuner app.

Editor’s Note: If you are reading this article on any website other than BikeReview.com.au, please report it to BikeReview via our contact page, as it has been stolen or re-published without authority.

The post Yamaha WR250F | 2025 Model Full Test appeared first on Racing, Riding, Motorcycle Reviews, Race bikes, Tech Tips, Rider Training....

Max Stauffer, a long time Yamaha rider who has progressed quickly through the ranks, will join the Yamaha team to contest the Superbike division at the Australian Superbike Championship in 2025. The 21-year-old enjoyed a breakout season in 2024 to finish fourth in the championship, highlighted with podium results at several rounds this season. With the support of the in-house Yamaha team, Stauffer expects the steep learning curve to continue and believes the 2025 season will be his best yet.

“Getting the phone call from John Redding offering me the YRT ride for next season was one of the best calls I have ever had,” Stauffer beams. “It’s been a goal of mine to get the opportunity to ride for YRT and now that I have been able to make that happen, I plan on making the most of the chance I have been given.

“Mike and Cru have showed the bike is clearly capable of winning at every track and the team has the knowledge and experience to help me become a better rider. I can’t wait to get to work with the team and start the next phase of my career.

“Thank you to all the people who have helped me get to this point and the years of hard work my family have put in. This is what we have all worked so hard for and now that I’m in this position, I won’t let anyone down,” Stauffer ends.

Back for his fourth year with YRT is Mike Jones. Since joining the Yamaha squad in 2022, Jones has been a model of consistency and professionalism on and off the track with results to prove he is one of Australia’s premier riders.

Jones was second in the 2024 championship, racking up round wins at Queensland Raceway and Morgan Park as well as race wins at One Raceway and The Bend as he took the championship chase all the way down to the final race of the season.

But coming so close to victory in 2024 is what is motivating him for 2025, and Jones already has plans in place for next season and is eager to continue his successful relationship with the team.

“My relationship with Yamaha and YRT has been very successful and one that we both wanted to continue,” Jones begins. “In the three years with the team we have finished first, fifth and second in the ASBK Championship and we’re focused on winning another one next year.

“YRT are a dedicated and professional team who I enjoy working with and I genuinely love the feeling of racing the Yamaha R1M. I’m also really excited to be teammates with Max next year. He is an exciting young talent, and we get along well off the track too. I think his youthful enthusiasm will be an added boost for us all and I look forward to another fun and successful racing season.”

Team owner, John Redding, anticipates both riders raising the bar again in 2025 and believes both are capable of outstanding results in the ASBK championship.

“Mike and Max will be a formidable team in 2025 as they are dedicated and determined riders willing to challenge themselves and the team to be better. Off the track they are also polite and well-respected riders among their peers and good ambassadors for the Yamaha brand.

“I would also like to take the time to thank Cru Halliday for his passion and efforts for YRT over the past decade. Cru had been with us for a long time and YRT has played a big part in his career, and he will always be a part of the Yamaha / YRT family. We wish him well for the future and YRT will always be there to assist him if required.

“The team are already hard at work for the 2025 season and the pre-season will come around quickly so there is no time to rest,” Redding said.

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CP3 Engine

Based on Yamaha’s renowned CP3 powerplant, the new 2025 YZF-R9 boasts a dedicated supersport chassis and comprehensive electronics suite, wrapped in striking next-generation R-series styling. The new 2025 YZF-R9 was conceived to redefine the supersport class by combining track-capable performance with street bike accessibility through a broad, smooth power delivery, light handling, street-friendly ergonomics and a complete package of advanced rider aids. A machine as at home on a race circuit in the hands of a seasoned track rider as it is exploring twisty roads or urban streets in the hands of a dedicated road rider.

The heart and soul of the new YZF-R9 is its characterful 890cc liquid-cooled three-cylinder powerplant, which receives a unique ECU tune and optimised gear ratio to provide thrilling supersport power with a broader, torquey street-friendly engine character. A carefully tuned airbox amplifies induction sound which combines with the CP3’s distinctive crossplane triple exhaust note to provide an aural resonance which further heightens the thrill of acceleration.

The versatile triple cylinder bike is not designed to take over from the more track-focused YZF-R1 but complement the four-cylinder machine…

Deltabox Frame

The advanced gravity-cast Deltabox frame is the lightest aluminium frame ever offered on a Yamaha supersport model. The frame is extensively tuned to deliver a supple, predictable feel at lower speeds and supersport rigidity for razor-sharp handling at track speeds. Along with new high-spec fully adjustable KYB suspension and nearly perfect 50/50 weight distribution, the YZF-R9 delivers light, agile handling that inspires confidence for a wide range of riders and experience levels.

Model specific adjustable KYB suspension

New KYB suspension units are specified – including a 43mm USD front fork with base valve and a rear shock with a new low-speed valve – the first for a motorcycle. The new shock generates linear damping for precise road holding and chassis stability.

Big Brakes

Premium Brembo Stylema monoblock front calipers combine with a Brembo radial master cylinder, large 320mm dual front discs, stainless steel brake lines and aggressive pad compounds to offer supersport-level braking with exceptional power and feel. YZF-R9 also offers the option to turn rear ABS off for track riding.

Advanced aerodynamics

The new YZF-R9 includes MotoGP-inspired functional winglets which add downforce for a stable, planted front-end feel while keeping drag to a bare minimum. The new bodywork is the most aerodynamic Yamaha model ever offered. A dedicated supersport riding position is optimised to achieve excellent handling and a strong sense of unity with the machine while still offering a short reach to the clip-ons, ample leg room and low seat height for more comfort in a variety of riding scenarios.

New generation TFT display

The latest generation full-colour 5in TFT display provides a wide range of vehicle data. Select between four separate street themes or a dedicated track theme. Display themes, vehicle data, connectivity functions and the YZF-R9’s electronic suite are navigated through Yamaha’s latest integrated handlebar switches. Button shape and feel have been extensively refined to provide intuitive operation.

Smartphone connectivity

Riders can link their smartphone to the new TFT display via Yamaha’s free Y-Connect app to receive message notifications, calls and listen to music (through use of an aftermarket Bluetooth® headset, not provided). Full turn-by-turn navigation is available through the Garmin® StreetCross app to make each journey easier.

Advanced electronic suite

An advanced six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) is based on the proven performance of the flagship YZF-R1 superbike. Data collected from the IMU and wheel speed sensors enable a high-tech suite of rider aids including a nine-mode Traction Control System (TCS), three-mode Slide Control System (SCS), three-mode Lift Control System (LIF) and a Brake Control System (BC). Levels of intervention can be adjusted and each of these systems can also be turned off providing the ultimate versatility and control in a variety weather and surface conditions. Road riders will appreciate convenient features such as cruise control and Yamaha’s Variable Speed Limiter functions while track day enthusiasts will enjoy the Y-TRAC race settings complemented by a virtual pitboard feature that displays instructions and information from pit crew to rider in real time.

Yamaha R-Series style

With sharp, distinctive R-series styling including its signature M-shaped front duct and tail wing, combining with new generation design cues like angled LED position lighting and advanced aerodynamics including functional front winglets, the revolutionary new YZF-R9 is instantly recognisable as the next evolution of Yamaha’s iconic R-series.

Summary

When the first YZF-R1 was released in 1998 it re-invented the supersport category. The all-new YZF-R9 is placed to repeat that with its combination of street smarts and racetrack capability. The versatile triple cylinder bike is not designed to take over from the more track-focused YZF-R1 but complement the four-cylinder machine and introduce more riders to the exciting supersports category.

Colours, availability and price

The new 2025 Yamaha YZF-R9 will be available in Team Yamaha Blue, Matt Black or Intensity White/Redline, and will begin arriving to dealers from May 2025. Yamaha Motor Australia is pleased to offer the new model at $23,199 inc GST ride away. However, initial stock will be limited, and this price is a special introductory offer that ends on 31 March 2025. Deposits and forward orders placed before this date will secure the introductory price – so place your order now with your Yamaha dealer.

Yamaha YZF-R9 Official Video

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To celebrate International Female Ride Day 2024, Leanne partnered with two-time World Superbike champion Troy Corser to conduct the first of what she plans to be an ongoing series of coaching days tailored exclusively for female motorcycle riders. “Today is all about empowering women and helping them improve their skills as riders, whether it be on the road or the racetrack,” Leanne explained before the start of her first event at the Marulan’s Pheasant Wood circuit in NSW. “I want to assist these girls in having more confidence within themselves and their riding. It’s a two-pronged approach based on the sort of guidance I wish I had been given when I first started riding. Providing the girls with an environment where they can be relaxed, ask questions, and not feel intimidated is paramount. This includes not feeling overwhelmed by the speeds and on-track congestion you can sometimes experience at regular track days.”

Addressing the participants at the rider’s briefing, Leanne emphasised that the day is about learning and improving, not speed. “The focus today is on improving, and I want to see everyone having a great time,” she told the assembled group. Leanne also explained why the Pheasant Wood circuit is the ideal location for the coaching day. “Scott and the Pheasant Wood team could not have been more accommodating with making the day happen, the track here is perfect for the coaching we are doing. Experienced riders can enjoy the challenge, while those who have never been on a track before will not find it as intimidating as a big high-speed circuit.”

Despite the unpredictable weather, the day attracted the targeted 25 entrants, and looking at the smiles on faces as the day unfolded, it appears Leanne is onto a winner. “There’s a type of camaraderie at female-only days that you don’t get at a regular track day,” she said. “Most of these girls didn’t know each other before the day started, but you can already tell they will leave as friends.”

The Yamaha brand was well represented during the day, and we spoke with riders to learn more about their passion for riding and what they hope to get from the day.

Tania Smith – Yamaha YZF-R15M
Don’t let her slight build and calm, softly spoken demeanour fool you; Tania Smith is a life-long adrenalin junky who lives in the fast lane. Despite being a recent convert to the two-wheeled lifestyle, she has already accumulated an impressive collection of high-performance machinery, which she rides at every opportunity. However, when it comes to improving as a rider and becoming faster and safer on track, Tania decided Yamaha’s 150cc YZF-R15M sportsbike was the best machine to fine-tune her riding technique.

“I’ve always been an adrenaline junkie, I’m so glad I’ve taken up motorcycle riding. I’ve been riding for five years now, and I’m totally addicted,” she laughed. “But I’m only relatively new to track days; this is my fourth. I want to do much more.” One of the few regrets Tania has in life is her failure to take up motorcycle riding at a much younger age. “I’ve always been an adrenaline junkie, but water sports were my thing. I’m so glad I’ve taken up motorcycle riding and I’ll certainly be making up for lost time.” Tania explained that her partner Tim is responsible for getting her into motorcycle riding, “At first, I was on the back with Tim, but after a while, I thought to myself, you know what? I can do that.”

Roxanne Guzman – Yamaha XSR900
Roxanne – or Rox as everyone likes to call her – is a true Yam Fan. Starting her two-wheeled journey a little over two years ago on a YZF-R3, she always had her eye on an XSR900, “This bike is my absolute dream bike,” she explained while showing off her red and white sport heritage machine with its personalised accessories. “I love riding every day; I commute to work on the XSR900 and also ride it all weekend.”

Rox had received some previous on-track coaching, but after reading the Motor | Life | Passion story about Leanne Nelson and hearing about her all-female coaching event, she jumped at the chance to attend the Marulan coaching day. While addicted to riding of all kinds, Rox has developed a soft spot for long-distance riding, “Last week, I completed a ride from Sydney to Victoria in less than 24 hours,” she explained, “If I could ride all day, every day.”

As a member of the Iron Butt Association, a group dedicated to long-distance time-limited riding, Rox has already completed her 1600km in 24-hours certificate and is now eyeing off the next challenge, “I love to test my physical and mental ability, to go as long as possible and to travel as far as possible; endurance riding lets me do that,” she explained, “It’s amazing how many Yamahas are part of the Iron Butt group, I guess it’s due to their legendary reliability; it’s certainly one of the main reasons I chose a Yamaha.”

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Swain, who won the 2023 R3 Cup in Australia, headed over to Europe at the beginning of the 2024 season to further his career as he contests the FIM R3 World Cup. So far, three rounds have already been completed with the teenager experiencing top ten finishes at Assen and Misano but also a challenging time at round one in Barcelona.

“I’m excited to have Yamaha Australian on board and supporting me while I contest the World R3 Cup,” Swain explains. “I was almost speechless when I was offered the deal and the support they have offered is invaluable to me and my family as we try and race at a world level.

Read our Yamaha YZF-R3 YRD Racer test here…

“The racing over is tough and every rider is fast and aggressive but having this additional support from Yamaha Australia allows me more time to train and focus on my racing and make the most of the opportunities I have in front of me now.

“It comes at a great time as we go to Donnington Park this weekend and I’m determined to score my first podium of the year. Hopefully, I can start the relationship off right and get a good result there and finish the season off strongly”.

Swain has been a long time Yamaha rider in Australia, coming through the ranks starting with the Oceania Junior Cup before moving onto the Yamaha R3 Cup and 300cc Supersport categories.

“We are pleased to be able to offer Cameron this support package and hope it comes in useful in his pursuit of international success, starting with the Yamaha R3 bLU cRU World Cup,” begins Yamaha Australia’s Motorsport Manager, Scott Bishop.

“Cameron and his family have made plenty of sacrifices in their racing so far and we hope this can help push him to a higher level. We wish Cameron well for the coming rounds and hope this is the first of many successes for him and his team”.

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Yamaha Motorsport Manager, Scott Bishop: “The AFTN has brought a spotlight onto Dirt Track, or more specifically Flat Track, that we really haven’t seen since the days of the Troy Bayliss Classic. Even more than that, it’s providing riders with a series and a clear pathway to a career in racing regardless if that’s following the likes of Tom Drane to race Flat Track in the US, or taking their skills to another discipline like so many of our great road racers and speedway riders have done in the past.

“We look forward to working with the AFTN in their first season as an Australian Championship, and we’re proud to include the Yamaha Blu Cru Aussie Flat Track Nationals to our ever growing portfolio of support for Australian Motorcycle Championships”.

Series Organiser Dave Maddock: “Growing into an Australian Championship in 2024, we’ve been actively searching for support to continue improving the rewards for entrants, and to continue giving our riders the exposure they deserve.

“With Yamaha joining the likes of Motul, KTM, MXstore, Unit, Husqvarna, TCX, Unifilter, MotoBatt, Ballards, MSC, Fist Handwear and Bunda Fine Jewels, we are building the AFTN with a range of companies and brands well known for their support of racing and riders. We’re proud to become the Yamaha Blu Cru Aussie Flat Track Nationals in 2024”.

Read our review on the 2024 Yamaha YZ250F here and 2024 WR450F here…

With six rounds over three weekends, the Yamaha Blu Cru Aussie Flat Track Nationals is set to fire into life on July 27 – 28 at the Macarthur Motorcycle Complex in Appin, NSW. Tickets for Adults and kids over 16 cost $20 and tickets for Kids aged 16 to 6 are just $10, while Kids under 6 get free entry. There are Family passes for Two Adults and Two Kids for $50. Entry info for competitors can be found here. 

AFTN race weekends consist of two separate rounds of racing, with Round 1 on Saturday using a Flat Track layout with the always impressive Pro Twins, while Sundays Round 2 will see competitors take to the TT Circuit at the same venue.

Purchase tickets for the Yamaha BluCru Australian Flat Track Nationals here

Round 1 Racing Saturday, Round 2 TT Sunday

Practice and qualifying kicks off at 9am on Saturday July 27, with Pro 450 Superpole at 10:45am followed by racing from 11a,. There are four races of 6 to 15 laps for each class, with podium presentations at 3:45pm.

2024 Yamaha BluCru Aussie Flat Track Nationals

Round 1: Flat Track Layout – Appin, NSW, Saturday July 27
Round 2: TT Layout – Appin, NSW, Sunday July 28
Round 3: Flat Track Layout – Brisbane, QLD, Saturday August 31
Round 4: TT Layout – Brisbane, QLD, Sunday September 1
Round 5: Flat Track Layout – Gunnedah, NSW, Saturday November 16
Round 6: TT Layout – Gunnedah, NSW, Sunday November 17

Yamaha BluCru Aussie Flat Track Nationals Social Media

www.instagram.com/FlatTrackNats  |  www.facebook.com/FlatTrackNationals

Website: www.aftn.com.au

Classes of Competition

Pro 450 – 450cc 4-stroke | MX Frame | 19-inch flat track tyre | 16+
Pro Twins – 499cc 4-stroke and above | Street Frame – Twin cylinder* |
19-inch flat track tyre | 16+ | Rounds 1, 3 & 5
Junior Lites – 150cc 2-stroke or 250cc 4-stroke | MX Frame | 19-inch flat track tyre | 13 – U16 years
Junior 85 – 85cc 2-stroke or 150cc 4-stroke | MX Frame | 17-inch flat track tyre | 9 – U13 years
Clubman Open – Up to 501cc 2 or 4-stroke | MX Frame | 19-inch flat track tyre | 16+

2022/2023 Championship Results can be found here…

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For over 20 years, Yamaha Australia has been a major player in the Australian Off Road Championship and that will continue for 2024 as again the bLU cRU have taken up the naming rights of the long standing championship. Another 12 rounds over six weekends are scheduled and taking in some of the best riding terrain in the country with the nations’ best off-road pilots.

ShopYamaha Off-Road
Spearing Yamaha’s presence at the AORC will be the ShopYamaha off Road Team of Kyron Bacon and Wil Dennett. The two young guns of Australian enduro racing will be out to make their presence felt with Bacon contesting the E1 division (250cc) while Dennett steps up to handle the E2 duties (450cc).

Tasmanian based sensation, Kyron Bacon is fit, fast and motivated to get his AORC number 1 plate back after an injury interrupted 2023 season. Bacon took the E1 and outright honours in 2022, but a broken leg mid-way through the 2023 season halted any chance of retaining the crown, but to his credit, he still managed to charge his way back to a podium position by seasons end and finish the year on a strong note. 

“Last year had some challenges but it also had a lot of positive things I can take from it and I’m fired up and ready to get racing in 2024,” Bacon begins. “I’m well and truly over my injury and riding well and have already spent a few days with the team testing and preparing for the new season.”

“I missed a couple of rounds last year and even though Josh Green has retired, the depth of this years’ championship looks even better. Having Daniel back will be great for the championship and his profile can only add to the AORC and I look forward to racing not just him, but all the other riders in this years’ championship and doing my best to keep the number one plate on Yamaha for another year,” Bacon said.     

Alongside Bacon will be Wil Dennett who steps into the E2 division after the retirement of long-time racer, Josh Green. But make no mistake, Dennett earned his way onto the premier team with some sensational performances in the Under 19 class in 2023, that included plenty of Outright podiums and top five results.   

Racing with bLU cRU support in 2023, Dennett was comfortably the most improved rider in last years’ championship and the steep learning curve looks set to stay with his progression to the ShopYamaha team and under the guidance of AJ Roberts.

“I have been a Yamaha rider for a long time and it’s awesome that I have been able to work my way up through the ranks with their support and make it to the premier team,” Dennett says with enthusiasm. “Last year was awesome for me, and it was topped off when AJ called at the end of the season and offered me a ride. I’m not sure who was more stoked, me or my dad.

“I have to keep working hard and I have big shoes to fill with Josh retiring but I’m looking forward to it. The extra support from the team gives me more time to ride and train, my bikes will be better prepared, and I have worked hard over the off season to improve my riding and fitness, so I will be ready for the opening rounds.”

Yamaha Ballard’s Off-Road Racing
Jess Gardiner and her team are back for another season and looking to keep the momentum going from a successful 2024 season that saw her and Danielle McDonald win their respective championships as well as finish on the podium in the worlds team championships (ISDE) in Argentina.

Continuing with a three-rider outfit that will now see McDonald join Gardiner in the senior women’s class after dominates the junior girls while Jeremy Carpentier will fly the flag in the E1 class on the WR450F.

Gardiner will be gunning for eighth AORC championship, but it is highly likely, her main opposition will be parked right beside her in the JGR tent. Gardiner has been a mentor for McDonald over the past few seasons, but this year, they go head-to-head over 12 rounds. Will it be the gritty determination of the veteran in Gardiner that climbs the mountain again, or the young, fast and stylish McDonald that brings the gardiner train to a halt?

For Carpentier, the all new WR450F has been like a breath of fresh air and he has gelled with the bike the moment he threw a leg over it. The light, agile and exciting new model that was built for Australian conditions has Carpentier charged up for the new season and ready to create some damage in the E2 class.

Yamaha bLU cRU Support
A new layer of support was introduced by Yamaha for the 2023 and the success was instant. The three-rider team of Cooper Sheidow, Wil Dennett and Jett Yarnold finished the year with two AORC championships and a third place in an outstanding debut. The support given to Wil Dennett enabled him to move up to the ShopYamaha team while Sheidow and Yarnold return for another season with Yamaha bLU cRU Support.

Sheidow is the current E1 champion after a consistent and impressive start to his time on Yamaha. He was in the heat of the battle right from the opening round, filled in for the inured Bacon with the ShopYamaha team and when the pressure was on at the final round, Sheidow kept his composure and secured the championship for himself and Yamaha.

The South Australian rider established himself on the national scene in 2023 and with a season under his belt on Yamaha as well as the continued support of the ShopYamaha team, expect Sheidow to continue his upward trend in the 2024 season.  

Yarnold stepped out of juniors and made in an immediate impact, taking third in the EJ (under 19 championship), and finishing on the podium at most rounds. Yarnold adapted well to the team surroundings and will enter this year’s championships as one of the favourites in the development category.

GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing
Yamaha Junior Racing made the move into off road racing in 2023 with the two-rider line up of Marcus Nowland and Harley Hutton. Both return for 2024 with YJR support and will continue to fly the flag at AORC events.

Hutton won multiple rounds in 2023 and showed he is the real deal when it comes to off road despite his young age. He will again contest the J2 (85cc) class for 2024 and will be out to get the number one plate on his YZ85.

For Nowland, he had an up and down year but gained valuable experience in his first year on the bigger capacity bikes. Now settled and comfortable on the 250cc machine, Nowland will be aiming for the top as he embarks on the new season.

The 2024 AORC gets under way in March and will run 12 rounds ending in September. 

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The bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup is back with a grid full of adrenaline filled thrill-seekers ready to do battle it out over six rounds this year and begin their journey in road racing. The category has been a huge winner for both Yamaha and the ASBK championship as it has introduced hundreds of riders into circuit racing and been a successful breeding ground for many riders. The first batch of riders are now entering Australian Supersport classes and others contesting international championship events.

The R3 Cup returns and with three rounds to be contested in this year’s series branded as the ShopYamaha R3 Cup. ShopYamaha is Yamaha’s online market place and can be found via the Yamaha Motor Australia website – ; https://shop.yamaha-motor.com.au/

Starting in Australia nearly a decade ago, the R3 Cup is now a worldwide racing program that sees all riders compete on Yamaha R3 machines and provides them with the opportunity to develop their skills and compete internationally with two Australian riders invited to the R3 Cup Supefinale in Portugal last year. Yamaha also offer the only manufacturer track side support at the ASBK rounds via our YRD program. Need technical advice or a part to get you through the weekend, then head over to see Stewart and Janice Winton at the YRD truck and they will be too happy to help you out.

And, just because you race a Yamaha at the ASBK rounds, Yamaha offer a lucrative bonus program for each round and the championship that has seen Yamaha dish out over $100,000 per season in recent years. Put yourself on the podium and your next stop is the bank. Add to that sponsorship of the ASBK Championship, a race replica, five bike display at each round and the presence of the Yamaha Racing Team and you have the biggest backers of racing in Australia.  

Yamaha Racing Team
The boys are back for 2024! Despite not winning the 2023 Superbike Championship, the duo of Cru Halliday and Mike Jones put a YRT R1M on the podium at every round last season. The final results saw Halliday in third and Jones in fifth but on track shows they were both far more competitive than the results show.

Halliday keeps his long-term relationship going for 2024 and showed there is plenty of fight and motivation in the New South Welshmen with his strong finish to the year. Halliday started the year well, with podiums in the six of the first seven races and then finished the year with a second place at Phillip Island, highlighted with a race win, and a second-place finish at the final round at The Bend. 

“YRT is my racing home and I’m looking forward to another year of racing with the team,” Halliday begins. “The last couple of years, both Mike and myself at been very competitive at every track and it’s a credit to the guys on the team for the hard work they do and the bikes they build. My motivation is as high as ever and its time I rewarded my family and the team with a championship win so I’m all out to get that done in 2024,”

Mike Jones will bring back his familiar number 46 for the 2024 season as he fights to regain the number 1 plate again. The three-time ASBK champ had a luckless season in 2023 and despite producing some of the closest and most exciting racing ASBK has seen, Jones couldn’t recapture the magic that saw him win the 2022 crown.

But there were lessons learnt and improvements made at every circuit on the schedule, so Jones comes into the 2024 season confident that he can produce the kind of riding that has seen him climb the mountain three times before.

“I took a few weeks off after the final round last year and had the chance to reflect on what I did well and what I can improve on this season and I believe that I’m still not at my peak as a rider. Last year I set a number of personal best times at the majority of the tracks and I think myself, the team and the bike can go even faster in 2024. I know the guys haven’t stopped back in the workshop as they prepare for the season and we have a number of riding days and tests scheduled prior to round one to ensure we are in a good place when the championship starts,” Jones comments.

The opening round of the ASBK Championship is ran in conjunction with the first round of the FIM Superbike World Championships (WSBK) on February 23 -25.

Editor’s Note: If you are reading this article on any website other than BikeReview.com.au, please report it to BikeReview via our contact page, as it has been stolen or re-published without authority.

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