EICMA 2015: Yamaha MT-10 streetbike showcased

With its Japanese rivals stepping up the ante in the litre-class street bike segment, Yamaha was feeling a bit left out with its FZ-1. Ever since the new Yamaha R1 was launched it was speculated that a naked performance motorcycle based on it will be launched soon.  The Japanese manufacturer though maintained a poker face throughout this speculations and rumour. But a day prior to the 2015 EICMA Motorcycle Show, Yamaha showcased the new MT-10 prior to its official unveiling today. The new Yamaha MT-10 will be the flagship offering in the MT-family from the tuning fork brand and is most likely to replace the ageing Yamaha FZ-1 from the market.

The styling of the motorcycle is edgy and raw with few style elements from the MT-range being maintained. Powering the new Yamaha MT-10 is the same cross-plane, inline-four, 999cc engine as seen on the Yamaha YZF-R1. Power figures haven’t been unveiled yet but Yamaha claims the motor has been tuned to suit its street naked dynamics with better low and mi-range torque delivery. The motorcycle has been loaded with electronic goodies like switchable traction control with three levels, three riding modes, an assist and slipper clutch and cruise control. Though we must add that cruise control can be only engaged in 4th, 5th and 6th gears only. Riding posture is upright and mildly aggressive in sync with premium street bike characteristics.

The Deltabox frame of the Yamaha MT-10 is similar to the frame as found on the new R1 and is a according to the Japanese two-wheeler giant the MT-10 has the shortest wheelbase in its segment at 1,400mm. The short wheelbase should make the new Yamaha motorcycle a lively handling streetbike. The suspension bits and braking hardware too has been sourced from the Yamaha R1 while the MT-10 employs a LCD instrument panel, 5-spoke cast aluminium wheels and 17-litre fuel tank capacity.

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We can expect the Yamaha MT-10 to head to our shores by late 2016 and compete against the likes of the MV Agusta Brutale 1090, Ducati Monster 1200S and the BMW S1000R. We will be reporting live from EICMA 2015, watch this space for pricing, power figures and other details regarding the Yamaha MT-10.