New Yamaha MT-07 spied in testing

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Yamaha MT-07 prototype

Yamaha MT-07 in testing

Yamaha MT-07 changes could be internal

Yamaha MT-07 test rider

Yamaha MT-07 prototype left side

Yamaha MT-07 could get cornering ABS 1 of 7

These spyshots show that Yamaha are planning to update its super-popular MT-07, which should see it catch up with a rapidly modernising competition.

First released in 2014 the 689cc crossplane-cranked parallel twin has stolen hearts and minds across the world thanks to its fun, peppy powerplant and confidence-inspiring ride.

Externally the engine appears unchanged, however it’s possible something is going on inside given there’s an impending emissions change with Euro 5 on the horizon. It’s possible Yamaha will incorporate a version of their variable valve timing system as seen on the latest R125 but don't hold your breath.

If so this could give it a boost in the midrange as well as helping to clean up the exhaust fumes. In a similar vein, the exhaust has been modified slightly, presumably for the same reason.

Up top the dash appears to be new, now a little larger than the existing model. The MT-07’s competitors have begun to steal a march on the top-value twin of late, with models such as the KTM 790 Duke bringing full-colour TFT dashes and smartphone connectivity.

Given that this is aimed at a younger crowd, we imagine Yamaha could have done the same, although it’s possible it may just be a larger version of the black and white LCD version on the current model to keep the price down.

There’s a new headlight and the yokes are different too, although the forks appear to be the same, suggesting the front end may have undergone a small geometry tweak.

A load of plumbing is visible near the braking system so we imagine that what we're seeing here is an ABS test, suggesting that it might be receiving an update ahead of Euro 5. In fact the MT trails all its rivals in the electronics department lacking power modes or even basic traction control.

Given that the current MT-07 was released only last year, and the early stage of this prototype, we imagine this bike will be officially unveiled in 2021, which is the deadline for Euro 5 updates for existing models.

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