Coming soon: Yamaha’s 2025 models

The race to update model ranges to the latest Euro5+ emissions regulations has seen manufacturers announcing a flurry of new and improved versions of their existing bikes, Yamaha among them. Having already revealed significant upgrades to the popular new MT-07 sports naked further new models have been confirmed at the EICMA show taking place in Italy, these including new tech, styling and features for the Tracer 9, Ténéré 700, TMAX ‘sport scooter’ and NMAX 125 as detailed below…

Facing a fresh challenge from Triumph and its recently announced Tiger Sport 800, the critically acclaimed Tracer 9 range gets a series of updates including revised looks, improved ergonomics, a bigger rear subframe for extra pillion space, the ‘matrix’ LED lighting and option of Yamaha’s Y-AMT clutchless gearchanging for the top GT versions. These also add smartphone connectivity to the improved 7.0-inch TFT dashboard, a storage compartment with charging port for your handset now included on the side of the fuel tank. Radar controlled Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Blind Spot Detection are also among the tech now available, the system also working with the Unified Brake System to assist braking in emergency situations. All share the same foundations of the fabulously smooth 119 horsepower 890cc CP3 triple and Deltabox aluminium frame, the range progressing through standard Tracer 9 to Tracer 9 GT with the new matrix LED headlight system, electronic suspension and the option of the Y-AMT semi-auto transmission we’ve tested previously on the MT-09. The system is standard on the Tracer 9 GT+, which also gets all the radar-enhanced safety systems and linked braking.

With a reputation validated by the jaw-dropping skills of enduro racers like Pol Tarrés, the Ténéré is a firm favourite among off-road fans and road riders alike, its combination of power, lack of weight and relative affordability a winner in all respects. Straddling the regular Ténéré 700, Yamaha’s 2025 model increases its appeal with a new Low version with shorter suspension travel and a lower seat for shorter riders or those less inclined to going full Tarrés every weekend. This slots in beneath the standard Ténéré 700, while for off-road fans wanting the full package can opt for a more extreme Rally with upgraded suspension and more. All get ride-by-wire throttle for the now Euro5+ compliant 690cc twin and increased support from rider modes and aids among detailed improvements. The shorter travel suspension of the Low version drops the 875mm seat height by 15mm, both this and the Ténéré 700 now getting fully adjustable forks and rear shock. The Rally gets an extra 20mm of suspension travel and increased ground clearance, a sump guard, revised saddle and bigger pegs among its upgrades, tech and styling also improved.

Described in the press material as nothing less than “one of the most significant and important models ever produced by Yamaha since the company was founded nearly 70 years ago” the TMAX blends the best of big scooter convenience and proper motorcycle performance in one package. For 2025 it gets revised looks and improved tech, the latter accessed via a new phone-connectable dashboard. The now Euro5+ compliant 560cc two-cylinder engine hits the 47 horsepower limit for riders on a restricted A2 licence and complies with low emission zones in the European cities where scooters reign supreme, the automatic gearbox and centrifugal clutch making it a cinch to ride. More sophisticated ‘cornering’ ABS is part of a new Brake Control system intended to improve safety, a D-Mode for urban riding joined by traction control for peace of mind on wet city streets. New twin headlights give it a fresher face while the new 7.0-inch TFT screen has a choice of layouts plus app-powered connectivity and Garmin-powered navigation from your phone.

A key part of Yamaha’s Sport Scooter line-up, the NMAX 125 and new NMAX 125 Tech MAX bring TMAX inspired styling to a more affordable and accessible price point. Scooter or not, the NMAX gets ‘big bike’ tech like ABS and traction control with power coming from a Euro5+ compliant 125cc engine with ‘twist and go’ automatic transmission. Smartphone app support and connectivity via the 4.2-inch LCD screen will go down well with the target audience of younger riders, the Tech MAX version getting a more sophisticated full colour TFT screen with app-powered Garmin navigation, higher-quality materials on the seat and unique colour options.