For 2009 Yamaha introduced the MT-01 SP, a special limited-edition version featuring a range of chassis and stylistic changes. One of the most significant new features is the use of Ohlins suspension. The gold anodized front forks come with 43mm stanchions and have been fine tuned to deliver high levels of feedback, while the rear shock features a separate reservoir which ensures consistent damping performance.

This new rear suspension offers higher levels of comfort combined with first class handling, stability and road holding. The MT-01 SP’s wheels are equipped with Pirelli Diablo Rosso tyres as original equipment, with a 120/70-17 front and a 190/50-17 rear. Like the stock MT-01 there are only five gears – but with 150Nm of torque at just 3,750rpm you really don’t need any more.

Check your inside leg measurement before you try one of these massive motorcycles – the seat height is 825mm or 32.5 inches. With oil and a full tank of gas the MT comes in at a Sumo-sized 265kg.

The new SP model is equipped with fatter 28.6mm diameter tapered handlebars in place of the standard model’s 25.4mm diameter design. In addition, the SP is also comes with a machined aluminium handlebar crown to accentuate the bike’s muscular image.

The new colour scheme features a red and white fuel tank with red chrome MT logo, a two-tone seat and gold wheels. Other special features include a protective nano-film coating on the bare-metal finish exhaust, and the extra chrome plating on engine and chassis components.

Page 1