These are two high-end “hyper-naked” machines from Yamaha for 2025: the MT-10 is the base model, the MT-10 SP is the premium version with higher spec components. They both share the same engine platform and many core features, but the SP upgrades suspension, styling and some hardware.


Key Specifications & Features

Engine & Drivetrain (both models)

Chassis & Suspension

  • Frame: Aluminium Deltabox, engine as a stressed member. Shared between models. Yamaha Motorsports+1

  • Front suspension (MT-10 base): 43 mm KYB inverted fork, fully adjustable, 4.7″ travel (~120 mm). Yamaha Motorsports+1

  • Rear suspension (MT-10 base): KYB piggyback shock, fully adjustable, 4.7″ travel. Yamaha Motorsports

  • For the MT-10 SP: Öhlins® electronically controlled semi-active suspension (both front & rear) with multiple modes (A-modes auto, M-modes manual) for damping. Yamaha Motorsports+1

Dimensions & Weight

Electronics & Features

  • Both bikes have a six-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) enabling lean-sensitive traction control, slide control (SCS), lift control (LIF), engine brake management (EBM), brake control (BC) system with ABS. Yamaha Motorsports+1

  • Quick shift system (up & down) standard. Yamaha Motorsports+1

  • Full-colour 4.2″ TFT display for instrumentation. Yamaha Motorsports+1

  • Additional premium extras on SP: braided steel brake lines, polished swingarm, bespoke color scheme, etc. Yamaha Motorsports+1


Highlights: What They Do Well

  • Strong torque & engine character: The crossplane-type CP4 engine (derived from Yamaha’s superbike heritage) offers a rich mid-range and responsiveness, making both bikes highly capable on street and track. Yamaha Motorsports+1

  • Premium hardware (especially SP): For the SP, the Öhlins semi-active suspension, high-spec brakes and premium finishes put it at the top of its class. If you want shockingly good performance and agile response, the SP is very strong.

  • Advanced electronics: The IMU and associated rider aids give confidence in varied conditions (cornering, lift, sliding) which supports both spirited riding and track use.

  • Aggressive styling & presence: Both carry Yamaha’s “MT” aggressive naked look. The SP adds even more premium visual cues.

  • Versatility: While these are high-performance machines, their upright/partial naked ergonomics (vs full-faired race-bike) make them more adaptable for street use.


Trade-Offs / Considerations

  • Seat height & weight: At ~835 mm seat height and wet weights ~470 lb there is some physical heft and tallness. Shorter riders may have to take care in stops or slow maneuvers.

  • Fuel capacity / range: With ~17 L (4.5 gal) fuel capacity, range may be more modest if you’re doing long highway rides or touring.

  • Street vs Track balance: While excellent street machines, their performance may be under-utilised unless you ride aggressively or take them to track. If you are purely casual commuting, there might be lighter, simpler bikes that suffice.

  • Cost premium on SP: The SP version costs significantly more (MSRP for SP in U.S is ~$17,299 for 2025 per Yamaha site). Yamaha Motorsports+1

  • Ergonomics: Being a “hyper-naked” sportbike with performance orientation, upright is less extreme than a full superbike, but still performance-centric. Some comfort compromises are possible on prolonged rides.


Which One to Choose?

  • Go for the MT-10 base if: You want high performance, excellent electronics and premium engine/chassis, but want to keep cost down and you are okay with “very good” suspension (KYB) versus ultra-premium.

  • Choose the MT-10 SP if: You want the best hardware (Öhlins semi-active suspension, braided brake lines, premium finishes), may use it aggressively (track days) and are willing to pay more for the extra.


Verdict

For 2025, the MT-10 lineup from Yamaha offers arguably one of the strongest “hyper naked” packages: excellent engine, strong electronics, serious chassis hardware. The SP elevates it further into premium territory. If you value high performance, modern rider-aids and premium components, either of these is a compelling choice.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *