2018 Yamaha MT-09 Review: The Wild Beast That Still Thrills Today

A torquey triple, aggressive looks, and thrilling ride. Why the 2018 Yamaha MT-09 is still a wild favourite for Malaysian street riders.

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The 2018 Yamaha MT-09 might not be the newest naked bike out there, but don’t let the age fool you, this machine still knows how to party. With the FZ-09 nameplate officially retired, the MT-09 (short for Master of Torque) came in swinging, offering raw fun, aggressive styling, and modern features that make it more than just your average daily ride.

Let’s be honest, most riders in Malaysia already know the MT-09 is kind of a legend. We’ve even seen local motovlogger HZMV (@hzmvmotovlog) hooning it around like a boss. And yes, it lives up to the hype.

Engine & Performance: Torque Monster That Likes to Play

At the heart of the MT-09 is an 847cc inline-triple engine that punches out 115 hp and 87.5 Nm of torque. Sounds modest on paper, but twist that throttle and you’ll quickly realize why it’s nicknamed Master of Torque. Whether you’re cruising in traffic or blasting through backroads, the power delivery is smooth, punchy, and always eager to lift the front wheel (if you’re feeling cheeky).

The quickshifter is a game-changer, especially when you want those clutchless upshifts while having fun in the twisties. Yamaha’s Assist & Slipper clutch also means you can hammer those downshifts with confidence, and your wrists won’t be crying in traffic jams.

Handling & Comfort: Sporty But Not Punishing

Weighing in at 193 kg (wet) and with a seat height of 820mm, the MT-09 feels slim and agile, yet solid. The adjustable suspension (compression and rebound at the front, preload at the rear) lets you fine-tune the ride to your liking, whether you’re daily commuting or carving up Genting Highlands.

Is it comfy for long rides? It’s decent, not Gold Wing comfy, but you can absolutely take it for weekend getaways without feeling like you’ve been through a Muay Thai fight. Around town, it’s agile enough to filter through traffic, and on open roads, it becomes a proper weekend weapon.

But it can get pretty wild in heavy traffic, you really need solid throttle control to tame this beast. All that power and torque sits right under your right hand, and the moment you twist it open, the front wheel wants to lift, and the bike just takes off with no signs of slowing down.

Features & Tech: Naked Bike With Modern Flair

The LED headlamp setup looks a bit angry, but that’s part of the MT-09’s charm. It gives off that “don’t mess with me” vibe, especially with the minimalist tail and aggressive stance.

It also comes with ABS, traction control, and riding modes, so you’re not just relying on skill and luck. Riding modes make a real difference when conditions change, rain mode for slippery roads, and full power for when you want to let loose. 

It’s also equipped with a buttery-smooth quickshifter that makes every gear change feel effortless. Pair that with a full system exhaust from SC Project or Akrapovič, and the sound it produces is pure music to the ears.

Maintenance, Parts & Ownership: Not As Painful As You Think

Good news for those worried about the long-term, maintenance costs are manageable, and spare parts are pretty easy to find, especially through platforms like iMotorbike.com. Oil changes, filters, pads, nothing too fancy or wallet-burning.

It’s a reliable workhorse if maintained properly, and with its widespread popularity, you won’t struggle to find aftermarket parts or workshops familiar with the bike.

Conclusion: Still a Solid Pick in 2025? Absolutely.

If you’re looking for a naked bike that delivers thrills without needing to remortgage your house, the 2018 Yamaha MT-09 is a strong contender. It’s wild when you want it to be, but chill enough for weekday rides. It’s also one of those bikes that looks mean, rides sharp, and still holds its own in the modern market.

Thinking of getting one? You might just find a great deal waiting for you at iMotorbike.com.