The Tracer 9 GT suspension modes aren't 1 = hard and 2 soft. In fact they rely on the IMU to adjust, and aren't binary. If you imagine a scale from 1 to 10, as 1 the softest and 10 the hardest, mode 1 will make the suspension to adjust only between levels 7 to 10, and in the other hand mode 2 would be between levels 1 and 8. In fact, in reality from my riding experience, mode 2 is between levels 3 and 7 and mode 1 between 6 and 9, when comparing to a manual adjustment. One might dislike having an IMU doing this automatically or not... disliking is an personal option, but this doesn't mean it's a fail, for me. If you test drive for a while a Tracer 9 GT you will notice this, and this is why there are people complaining that they don't see difference between mode 1 and 2, because when driving with the same style and road (like highways), the IMU will adjust to closer settings.
I totally get what you are saying and thank you for the detailed explanation. I have trawled the user manual and this suspension action you outline is not articulated with any clarity. This to me still takes away my control of the suspension to what a Yamaha Engineer has decided to be optimal. His optimal may not be my optimal and as you say still presents to a user as that A & B feel. I think the new GT is a brilliant bike in all other areas but this suspension would have me choosing the standard 900 plus some extra luggage. Again, great to have the detailed info, cheers!
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff Having the ability to setup IMU decisions would have been great though. But unfortunately is automatic, as stated in the users manual: "SUS-MODE" is an electronically controlled suspension damping system, called KYB Actimatic Damper System (KADS), which automatically adjusts the suspension's damping force to suit the riding situation.
I am ignorant of suspension set up so I have been totally HAPPY with my Tracer 9gt My understanding is the system is constantly adjusting the damping depending on the sensed conditions....did they lie? Or are YOU misinformed into thinking it is simply 2 settings of STATIC adjustment when in fact it is so much MORE than that? I ride pretty hard in the twisties and it works well for me in setting number 1 then when I go longish touring runs I put it in 2 which seems to allow my butt to go a lot longer before the pain hits, You are the first person I have heard bash the GTs suspension actually. If I have a complaint it is WHY only 2 choices? But whatever. It works for me,,,,hmmm maybe are you a bit obese? Do you ride in twisties (I mainly DO)
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff Then APOLOGIZE in fact REMOVE this video! The manual does not have to describe how it all functions any more than they would be expected to detail how the quick shifter works or how the slipper clutch or cruise control etc etc .....the mere FACT they tell us it IS in fact "Semi Active suspension" is plenty description! All one need do is look up the definition OF that term the same as looking up for example "fuel injection" if one is not sure what it means .....i think you are just being proud leaving this rant video up ....I would be ashamed if I had made your gross ERROR
I have just bought a Tracer 9 GT+ and must admit that the semi-active shock absorbers suit me perfectly with the two choices soft and hard. KYB KADS does an excellent job of adjusting damper settings according to road and driving style. This works much better than sitting around adjusting damper settings on the fly like I did on the Tiger 1200 GT Pro.
Ooh I love the rider mode damping settings on the GT Pro plus the option to choose any one of nine settings in every rider mode. Total control. The Tracer 9 GT+ can’t be worse than my 2023 GS, I really don’t like the very poor high speed damping on that.
No fixed damping setting will provide comparable ride quality to well designed adaptive damping suspension. The proper damping both for compression and rebound are affected by a number of variables including: weight, speed, height of bump(s), abruptness of bumps, spacing etc. Adaptive suspension can provide best balance between comfort and handling. Too soft you bottom out and lose handling. Too firm and the ride is uncomfortable and less stable as tire can leave the ground losing traction.
Totally agree with you, especially as you included the term "well designed". I currently ride a 2023 GS and I don't like the adaptive damping suspension at all, it is all over the place.
Don’t have to, plenty of “Industry” test rides out there explaining the suspension choice on this bike. I don’t have to ride it to know a binary choice compared to a full range of adjustment is a cheap show. In comparison the T7 offers a great range of analogue damping adjustment which is quite rare at that level.
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff Exactly... I'd suggest you take it for a spin to see how great it is. I own one and the suspension is good. It's got the manual adjustment for preload for front and rear, and electronic damping with two presets (A1 and A2). The suspension is made by KYB so I wouldn't call it cheap. If Yamaha would fit Ohlins, the bike wouldn't cost £12k... I normally ride in the softer mode, but use the harder settings when the roads are nicer. The difference is noticeable and the bike handles very nice.
@@piotrb6410 i specifically mentioned front preload and it’s plus points. You have missed my criticism entirely (or choose to) on the damping side of this.
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff no hard feelings here. I watched your video again to make sure I didn't miss anything. I understand that your issue is that the 9GT has two presets (hard and soft) and that there's no more in between configuration available, apart from the preload. I see your point but still would suggest that you take the Tracer for a spin. T9GT is aimed for people who like to go touring and normally don't change any suspension settings, including myself. The preload is still set as it came out from the factory, I only adjust the damping depending on the road conditions. In my opinion, both presets are configured just right. However, Yamaha still offers the standard non-GT Tracer 9 which has a suspension without the electronics so anyone can choose what they like.
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff What a joke and waste of bandwidth. You claim "TOTAL FAIL" on a bike YOU haven't ridden... BRILLIANT, how about first hand experience instead of assuming. Keep wasting our time with these worthless videos. PS, there are better ways to spend your day than choosing to be angry.
I can't agree, I came from an old style bike (admittedly I'd dialed it in just right for me) to the T9gt & it's great. The "Hard" & "Soft" really just seem to be ranges that the adaptive work over & NOT just 2 "Binary" settings. As for not putting new technology on a bike, well, I'm old enough to recall manual spark advance levers, kick starters & decompression levers, does this guy also shake his head at that, too?
No, I'll take the electronic ignition etc :-). I applaud the use of the electronic suspension but am not a fan of "we know best" settings from the manufacturers. The GS is the same, it is Dynamic but within the two options, ROAD and DYNAMIC. Road is like getting on a boat in the sea on anything but smooth surfaces and Dynamic has terrible high speed damping. The new 1300 GS has added more user control to these now. The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT would be my idea of the perfect suspension, it will run what it believes to be the best damping setup but you can modify each of the three settings up and down up to +/- 3 increments to suit you exactly.
I understand that concept. But in reality I know these things can be a load of old tosh too, somebody had to design the response to the active input but they have no knowledge of a riders preference. My 2023 GS has Dynamic ESA and it is bloody hopeless.
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff If you understand the concept then you know that semi-active system uses electronically controlled valves inside the fork or shock that allow those damping changes to be made in MILLISECONDS , quick enough that the suspension can react to suit an individual bump in the road (as in EACH bump etc! changing ALL the time!) It seems what has you confused is the fact the Tracer gives you A1 and A2 settings which simply means the one giving MORE damping for sportier riding and the other less for less aggressive touring and I can tell you it makes a differnce on my butt in a 5 hour ride! But in A2 when when I am riding fast in the twisties it gets to wallowing ....see either way it is STILL actively reacting in milliseconds to individual bumps but just more damping in A1 than A2 ....it works very well I mean I ride the bike pretty fast in the canyons if I do say so myself and if stays composed withut bouncing ....my last bike a VStrom was awful in comparison. I just think you have totally misunderstood what this system is and you are assuming it is only electronically adjustable....probably if they did not give two modes you would not have even ranted? Shoot I think the expense of this system is what pushed the price of the Tracer so high! The MT09 is like 5000 dollars cheaper even thoiugh built on identical platform (frame engine wheels brakes) And the 21 tracer was priced way higher than the previous generation. I am reading about a system Yamaha used earlier on their R1 and I imagine the Tracer system is similar "Ohlins ERS suspension. ERS is just the trade name / trademark that Yamaha uses for a system that Ohlins called Smart EC suspension. Ohlins Smart EC suspension is basically Ohlins NIX30 front fork cartridge kit and TTX36 shock absorber equipped with clicker adjusters that are STEPPER motor controlled by the ECU. The ECU gets in data from the IMU gyro platform, a brake pressure sensor and a motorcycle velocity sensor. The indata is used to decide the current state of the motorcycle - if the motorcycle is traveling at a constant velocity in a straight line, if the motorcycle is decelerating, if the motorcycle is turning into a corner, if the motorcycle is only a little bit leaned over or fully leaned over in the middle of a corner, if the motorcycle is accelerating out of a corner and so on. Depending on the current state of the motorcycle, the compression and rebound clicker of the front fork as well as the shock absorber are adjusted to offer the most suitable damping for each state." I understand there were THREE modes a rider could choose from for this system but each mode was still using the same stepper motor control of the damper screws which I dont know how many there are maybe 10 for all I know unless it is more ininite rather than click posisions we see on a lot of manual "clicker" adjustments ....but the point is the IMU is adjusting those "clickers" all the time based on indata...it was not just THREE clicks that truly would be a farse it was three optional damping plans I guess you could call it! I still think you totally misunderstand a very elaborate setup that is using a 6 axis IMU and a computer to make stepper motor controlled incremental adjustments all the time to those clickers *whether they click or not Im just calling em that) Yamaha just elected to give the rider TWO damping plans (A1 and A2) for how much damping is applied for more tightly controlled (sport) riding or less tightly controlled A2 (touring comfort) allowing the wheels to travel more freely for increased comfort I guess is a way to say it? ....now does it work as well as the most premium fully adjustable manual suspension well set up by a professional tuner for a given road? Probably not is my guess? But that is irrelevant to me I personally am too lame at the stuff to even ever achieve what said pro could anyway ...all I can say now is the current system on my Tracer 9gt works better than any suspension I can recall having on any previous street bike model and I have owned a LOT A LOT! Dozens in fact probably over 50 bikes counting dirt bikes and race bikes I can definately see price point buyers thumbing their nose at anything expensive they dont need to get from point A to point B and there is more and more of such on many new models...personally I LOVE tech! And I am happy to pay for it! I love quick shifters I love traction control and power modes and that new radar cruise control? If it works? I would LOVE playing with that! I'll get behind my buddy setting my cruse faster than him and then let HIM do all my braking and throttle control though the boring sections as I just steer...its what I do now in my Mazda CX5 Turbo on the freeway! All I do is steer and listen to Sirius XM and let the person in front of me drive my car lol
Total Truth, Bought a new 2022 Tracer 9 GT. Front suspension is too hard, you feel every jolt and minor bumps on the road. spent hours going over suspension specialists on the internet to see if i could get someone to make it a softer ride, when you tell them it has KYB semi active suspension, they are not interested. Finally after trying for the last three months I have a company that are confident they can modify the suspension to make a softer ride
Don't feel alone. I have a 2023 GS and the suspension on that has a lot to be weary of, I am not impressed with it at all.Great perseverance to find someone who will sort you out. Most road testers totally gloss over this fact on the Tracer 9 GT, it is very disingenuous to my mind.
I dont understand at all since I also have the identical bike ....are you smaller lighter person? Of so why would they not simply suggest lighter springs which I would think are mostly a seperate from the active portion which is only damping. I mean the suspension is a bit on the stiff side but I personally appreciate that a lot because most the fun I get is riding fast in the twisties. There is no way a manufacturer can spring a bike to please everyone obviously and in fairness the Tracer 9gt IS a sport TOURER that comes with luggage and for all they know will do a lot of two up. Maybe I just got lucky with my weight and riding style because I have no desire to change a thing. When I go on long rides I use A2 but in the canyons on my many shorter faster runs it is always A1 both deliver as advertised
Dear friend, I am an owner of the 2021 tracer 9 and what you say is a sacrosanct truth, I would also like to add that the front suspension also has bad hard and soft adjustments and too soft springs, not to mention the rear mono shock absorber which makes you seem to be on a carousel, obviously these sensations are perceived much more when there is more weight on the bike but I am 165 cm tall 65 kg and my girlfriend 50 kg. Only after buying a manual rear suspension did I see a very big improvement, more stable and finally it seems to me that I have a rear that does not go up and down continuously. Furthermore, it is impossible to remove the rear electronic suspension, we left the solenoid connected in the underseat compartment, deceiving the bike. YAMAHA to the detriment of her makes IDIOT choices.
Thankyou for that first hand feedback Angelo. It is crazy that you had to go to such lengths to get a good ride out of it. Glad you got it working for you in the end. Don't feel too bad though, I just bought a 2023 BMW R1250GS with ESA suspension and that is bloody rubbish too! Just awful, there is a video coming on that.👍
Terry I wonder if we riders (are being taken for a ride now) being hooked onto the techno lust going on now? I’ve been riding since 1964 and I wonder now in 2024 how I managed my bike tours in the sixties on my crappy BSA C15 and slightly better bike after I passed my test which was an old ES2 Norton how I ever made it visiting my families away north uk I shudder to think how I ever managed. But strangely I or rather we did.
Yes, I regularly commuted to and from College in Soutthshields to Abingdon (Oxon) on a CB350. I never thought of it as an epic solo journey at the time, just something you had to do 🤣.
Indeed the ride is terrible. I drive on mostly super smooth highways and city roads. But the moment I go over a road imperfection such as an interconnection at an over bridge or a tar patch up work, the suspension is so harsh and this is regardless of which mode I am. If I have a pillion, it’s even worse
And that is a great shame for a bike that shines in so many other areas. Marketing gimickery over real functionality. Thanks for the real world experience. 👍
TOTAL SUCCESS Hi Terry , Just a follow up on your Total Fail video. Finally got a company here in Brisbane Australia, who were familiar with re-working the KYB Electronic Suspension. MPE suspension in the suburb of Caloundra done the re valving and other mods to the front forks. The bikeis now a pleasure to ride to quote a old saying "they made a silk purse out of a sou's ear", better go cant wait to get out riding now cheers
That's brilliant. It is great when a knowledgeable company can make great improvements. I would take suspension mods all day over any engine mod, so much more bang for your buck. Shout out to MPE suspension!
I thought the suspension was ok, but the longer I drive my Tracer I can't stand the suspension. it's OK on roads without holes, but when it comes to demanding roads and roundabouts with holes, it doesn't work.
That is a great shame. Manufacturers are getting so prescriptive about suspension, "we know best". Exactly the same as my 2023 low chassis GS, high speed damping is bloody awful and it is quite crashy in those same circumstances.
I have a 1250GS on order. I already know the user control over the damping is relatively limited compared to the total and 100% control over the damping on the Triumph Tiger 1200.
If a manufacturer makes a bike for a 10 feet tall driver, it is not for you. I believe that Yamaha MIU programmers didn't make this program for you. You can go 20 years back to find your measurements. Best regards.
I think I know what you are trying to say. There is a lot to like about this bike but I feel the electronic suspension design is a poor implementation and very restrictive. On a more positive note no one makes us buy a bike and we have a lot of choices.
Lmao, I'm thinking about the 24 model tracer 9gt plus. I know what you're saying. All the japanese bikes are the same way. The only exception is the motor. Other than that, it's always the seat, suspension, throttle response, windscreen, etc, etc. I just hope the 24 model bikes are a bit better. I nominate you to go to Japan and get those little buggers straight 😅
What were thinking? Who runs that company anyway? They should hire you Terry! But then you wouldn't have time to make great videos, so screw that idea!
Yamaha have made some great bikes in the last decade, most have been totally compromised by sheeyite cheap poor suspension selection, the earlier MT & XSR models all needed suspension changes to be ridden progressively😬😬 Electronic adjustment will not make it better ? Perhaps the very latest SP models appear more sorted ? Maybe Yamaha designers need to give it a little KISS ??? Keep It Simple Stupid 😂😂😂
KISS - yes, definitely. Yamahas have come under quite some criticism in the bike press around the 900 suspension since it was introduced, some journos are a quite harsh and many too apologetic for it.
I bought a kawasaki ninja 1000 sx to do what my CB1100 can't do. Total fail, that thing. Changed it for a honda NC 750. And that thing makes me happy. Those manufactors better keep it simple IMHO.
A spot on video. You got my like. I test rode the Tracer 9GT and it was a cool ride. Can check it. With some minor downsides it is still a very good ST option. The suspension was a bit hard though. Can check my video.
Did you set the preload? Did you have it in A1 or A2? For all I know the person before you cranked that rear preload knob in several more turns cause they weighed 300 llbs lol
@@dougiequick1 Mine is set now. As I ride 70% of the time with cases and I am 100 kg I have it almost at max, one level less and it works for me. The same is at the front. I have the base model. Can check the video I filmed.
![ALLY - OH MY! [ REACTION ] 'Amarin Nitibhon' #ALLY_OHMY #ALLY #allynitibhon #แอลลี่](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/nX9qpHjVfbQ/mqdefault.jpg)
The Tracer 9 GT suspension modes aren't 1 = hard and 2 soft. In fact they rely on the IMU to adjust, and aren't binary. If you imagine a scale from 1 to 10, as 1 the softest and 10 the hardest, mode 1 will make the suspension to adjust only between levels 7 to 10, and in the other hand mode 2 would be between levels 1 and 8. In fact, in reality from my riding experience, mode 2 is between levels 3 and 7 and mode 1 between 6 and 9, when comparing to a manual adjustment.
One might dislike having an IMU doing this automatically or not... disliking is an personal option, but this doesn't mean it's a fail, for me. If you test drive for a while a Tracer 9 GT you will notice this, and this is why there are people complaining that they don't see difference between mode 1 and 2, because when driving with the same style and road (like highways), the IMU will adjust to closer settings.
I totally get what you are saying and thank you for the detailed explanation. I have trawled the user manual and this suspension action you outline is not articulated with any clarity. This to me still takes away my control of the suspension to what a Yamaha Engineer has decided to be optimal. His optimal may not be my optimal and as you say still presents to a user as that A & B feel. I think the new GT is a brilliant bike in all other areas but this suspension would have me choosing the standard 900 plus some extra luggage. Again, great to have the detailed info, cheers!
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff Having the ability to setup IMU decisions would have been great though. But unfortunately is automatic, as stated in the users manual: "SUS-MODE" is an electronically controlled suspension damping system, called KYB Actimatic Damper System (KADS), which automatically adjusts the suspension's damping force to suit the riding situation.
I am ignorant of suspension set up so I have been totally HAPPY with my Tracer 9gt My understanding is the system is constantly adjusting the damping depending on the sensed conditions....did they lie? Or are YOU misinformed into thinking it is simply 2 settings of STATIC adjustment when in fact it is so much MORE than that? I ride pretty hard in the twisties and it works well for me in setting number 1 then when I go longish touring runs I put it in 2 which seems to allow my butt to go a lot longer before the pain hits, You are the first person I have heard bash the GTs suspension actually. If I have a complaint it is WHY only 2 choices? But whatever. It works for me,,,,hmmm maybe are you a bit obese? Do you ride in twisties (I mainly DO)
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff From everything I have read the 900 is way inferior to the 9 in many respects but whatever
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff Then APOLOGIZE in fact REMOVE this video! The manual does not have to describe how it all functions any more than they would be expected to detail how the quick shifter works or how the slipper clutch or cruise control etc etc .....the mere FACT they tell us it IS in fact "Semi Active suspension" is plenty description! All one need do is look up the definition OF that term the same as looking up for example "fuel injection" if one is not sure what it means .....i think you are just being proud leaving this rant video up ....I would be ashamed if I had made your gross ERROR
I have just bought a Tracer 9 GT+ and must admit that the semi-active shock absorbers suit me perfectly with the two choices soft and hard. KYB KADS does an excellent job of adjusting damper settings according to road and driving style. This works much better than sitting around adjusting damper settings on the fly like I did on the Tiger 1200 GT Pro.
Ooh I love the rider mode damping settings on the GT Pro plus the option to choose any one of nine settings in every rider mode. Total control. The Tracer 9 GT+ can’t be worse than my 2023 GS, I really don’t like the very poor high speed damping on that.
You drink too much coffee, mate ... try some decaf or green tea
I do like a cup of tea on occasion I will say 👍😁
No fixed damping setting will provide comparable ride quality to well designed adaptive damping suspension. The proper damping both for compression and rebound are affected by a number of variables including: weight, speed, height of bump(s), abruptness of bumps, spacing etc. Adaptive suspension can provide best balance between comfort and handling. Too soft you bottom out and lose handling. Too firm and the ride is uncomfortable and less stable as tire can leave the ground losing traction.
Totally agree with you, especially as you included the term "well designed". I currently ride a 2023 GS and I don't like the adaptive damping suspension at all, it is all over the place.
Have you even ridden the Tracer 9 GT? Or just based your opinion on what's written on Yamaha's website?
Don’t have to, plenty of “Industry” test rides out there explaining the suspension choice on this bike. I don’t have to ride it to know a binary choice compared to a full range of adjustment is a cheap show. In comparison the T7 offers a great range of analogue damping adjustment which is quite rare at that level.
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff Exactly... I'd suggest you take it for a spin to see how great it is. I own one and the suspension is good. It's got the manual adjustment for preload for front and rear, and electronic damping with two presets (A1 and A2). The suspension is made by KYB so I wouldn't call it cheap. If Yamaha would fit Ohlins, the bike wouldn't cost £12k... I normally ride in the softer mode, but use the harder settings when the roads are nicer. The difference is noticeable and the bike handles very nice.
@@piotrb6410 i specifically mentioned front preload and it’s plus points. You have missed my criticism entirely (or choose to) on the damping side of this.
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff no hard feelings here. I watched your video again to make sure I didn't miss anything. I understand that your issue is that the 9GT has two presets (hard and soft) and that there's no more in between configuration available, apart from the preload.
I see your point but still would suggest that you take the Tracer for a spin. T9GT is aimed for people who like to go touring and normally don't change any suspension settings, including myself. The preload is still set as it came out from the factory, I only adjust the damping depending on the road conditions. In my opinion, both presets are configured just right. However, Yamaha still offers the standard non-GT Tracer 9 which has a suspension without the electronics so anyone can choose what they like.
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff What a joke and waste of bandwidth. You claim "TOTAL FAIL" on a bike YOU haven't ridden... BRILLIANT, how about first hand experience instead of assuming. Keep wasting our time with these worthless videos. PS, there are better ways to spend your day than choosing to be angry.
I have to disagree i own tracer 9 gt suspension is great i don't evan think u have ridden 1
Bikes like this are getting a lot of mentions in the comments, no need to apologise, you are on the money Lindsay.
I can't agree, I came from an old style bike (admittedly I'd dialed it in just right for me) to the T9gt & it's great. The "Hard" & "Soft" really just seem to be ranges that the adaptive work over & NOT just 2 "Binary" settings. As for not putting new technology on a bike, well, I'm old enough to recall manual spark advance levers, kick starters & decompression levers, does this guy also shake his head at that, too?
No, I'll take the electronic ignition etc :-). I applaud the use of the electronic suspension but am not a fan of "we know best" settings from the manufacturers. The GS is the same, it is Dynamic but within the two options, ROAD and DYNAMIC. Road is like getting on a boat in the sea on anything but smooth surfaces and Dynamic has terrible high speed damping. The new 1300 GS has added more user control to these now. The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT would be my idea of the perfect suspension, it will run what it believes to be the best damping setup but you can modify each of the three settings up and down up to +/- 3 increments to suit you exactly.
Semi active suggests CONSTANTLY adjusted damping depending on the ACTIVE inputs .....I assume you are totally missing the system
I understand that concept. But in reality I know these things can be a load of old tosh too, somebody had to design the response to the active input but they have no knowledge of a riders preference. My 2023 GS has Dynamic ESA and it is bloody hopeless.
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff If you understand the concept then you know that semi-active system uses electronically controlled valves inside the fork or shock that allow those damping changes to be made in MILLISECONDS , quick enough that the suspension can react to suit an individual bump in the road (as in EACH bump etc! changing ALL the time!) It seems what has you confused is the fact the Tracer gives you A1 and A2 settings which simply means the one giving MORE damping for sportier riding and the other less for less aggressive touring and I can tell you it makes a differnce on my butt in a 5 hour ride! But in A2 when when I am riding fast in the twisties it gets to wallowing ....see either way it is STILL actively reacting in milliseconds to individual bumps but just more damping in A1 than A2 ....it works very well I mean I ride the bike pretty fast in the canyons if I do say so myself and if stays composed withut bouncing ....my last bike a VStrom was awful in comparison. I just think you have totally misunderstood what this system is and you are assuming it is only electronically adjustable....probably if they did not give two modes you would not have even ranted? Shoot I think the expense of this system is what pushed the price of the Tracer so high! The MT09 is like 5000 dollars cheaper even thoiugh built on identical platform (frame engine wheels brakes) And the 21 tracer was priced way higher than the previous generation. I am reading about a system Yamaha used earlier on their R1 and I imagine the Tracer system is similar "Ohlins ERS suspension. ERS is just the trade name / trademark that Yamaha uses for a system that Ohlins called Smart EC suspension.
Ohlins Smart EC suspension is basically Ohlins NIX30 front fork cartridge kit and TTX36 shock absorber equipped with clicker adjusters that are STEPPER motor controlled by the ECU.
The ECU gets in data from the IMU gyro platform, a brake pressure sensor and a motorcycle velocity sensor. The indata is used to decide the current state of the motorcycle - if the motorcycle is traveling at a constant velocity in a straight line, if the motorcycle is decelerating, if the motorcycle is turning into a corner, if the motorcycle is only a little bit leaned over or fully leaned over in the middle of a corner, if the motorcycle is accelerating out of a corner and so on. Depending on the current state of the motorcycle, the compression and rebound clicker of the front fork as well as the shock absorber are adjusted to offer the most suitable damping for each state." I understand there were THREE modes a rider could choose from for this system but each mode was still using the same stepper motor control of the damper screws which I dont know how many there are maybe 10 for all I know unless it is more ininite rather than click posisions we see on a lot of manual "clicker" adjustments ....but the point is the IMU is adjusting those "clickers" all the time based on indata...it was not just THREE clicks that truly would be a farse it was three optional damping plans I guess you could call it! I still think you totally misunderstand a very elaborate setup that is using a 6 axis IMU and a computer to make stepper motor controlled incremental adjustments all the time to those clickers *whether they click or not Im just calling em that) Yamaha just elected to give the rider TWO damping plans (A1 and A2) for how much damping is applied for more tightly controlled (sport) riding or less tightly controlled A2 (touring comfort) allowing the wheels to travel more freely for increased comfort I guess is a way to say it? ....now does it work as well as the most premium fully adjustable manual suspension well set up by a professional tuner for a given road? Probably not is my guess? But that is irrelevant to me I personally am too lame at the stuff to even ever achieve what said pro could anyway ...all I can say now is the current system on my Tracer 9gt works better than any suspension I can recall having on any previous street bike model and I have owned a LOT A LOT! Dozens in fact probably over 50 bikes counting dirt bikes and race bikes I can definately see price point buyers thumbing their nose at anything expensive they dont need to get from point A to point B and there is more and more of such on many new models...personally I LOVE tech! And I am happy to pay for it! I love quick shifters I love traction control and power modes and that new radar cruise control? If it works? I would LOVE playing with that! I'll get behind my buddy setting my cruse faster than him and then let HIM do all my braking and throttle control though the boring sections as I just steer...its what I do now in my Mazda CX5 Turbo on the freeway! All I do is steer and listen to Sirius XM and let the person in front of me drive my car lol
Total Truth, Bought a new 2022 Tracer 9 GT. Front suspension is too hard, you feel every jolt and minor bumps on the road. spent hours going over suspension specialists on the internet to see if i could get someone to make it a softer ride, when you tell them it has KYB semi active suspension, they are not interested. Finally after trying for the last three months I have a company that are confident they can modify the suspension to make a softer ride
Don't feel alone. I have a 2023 GS and the suspension on that has a lot to be weary of, I am not impressed with it at all.Great perseverance to find someone who will sort you out. Most road testers totally gloss over this fact on the Tracer 9 GT, it is very disingenuous to my mind.
I dont understand at all since I also have the identical bike ....are you smaller lighter person? Of so why would they not simply suggest lighter springs which I would think are mostly a seperate from the active portion which is only damping. I mean the suspension is a bit on the stiff side but I personally appreciate that a lot because most the fun I get is riding fast in the twisties. There is no way a manufacturer can spring a bike to please everyone obviously and in fairness the Tracer 9gt IS a sport TOURER that comes with luggage and for all they know will do a lot of two up. Maybe I just got lucky with my weight and riding style because I have no desire to change a thing. When I go on long rides I use A2 but in the canyons on my many shorter faster runs it is always A1 both deliver as advertised
Dear friend, I am an owner of the 2021 tracer 9 and what you say is a sacrosanct truth, I would also like to add that the front suspension also has bad hard and soft adjustments and too soft springs, not to mention the rear mono shock absorber which makes you seem to be on a carousel, obviously these sensations are perceived much more when there is more weight on the bike but I am 165 cm tall 65 kg and my girlfriend 50 kg. Only after buying a manual rear suspension did I see a very big improvement, more stable and finally it seems to me that I have a rear that does not go up and down continuously. Furthermore, it is impossible to remove the rear electronic suspension, we left the solenoid connected in the underseat compartment, deceiving the bike. YAMAHA to the detriment of her makes IDIOT choices.
Thankyou for that first hand feedback Angelo. It is crazy that you had to go to such lengths to get a good ride out of it. Glad you got it working for you in the end. Don't feel too bad though, I just bought a 2023 BMW R1250GS with ESA suspension and that is bloody rubbish too! Just awful, there is a video coming on that.👍
Hey Terry, this videos is a total win!
You never fail to make me laugh!
Stay hilarious!
Dave
Appreciate the feedback 👍😬.
Glad it's got electric damping I haven't a clue how to set up
Lots of people say that so you're not alone!
Terry I wonder if we riders (are being taken for a ride now) being hooked onto the techno lust going on now? I’ve been riding since 1964 and I wonder now in 2024 how I managed my bike tours in the sixties on my crappy BSA C15 and slightly better bike after I passed my test which was an old ES2 Norton how I ever made it visiting my families away north uk I shudder to think how I ever managed. But strangely I or rather we did.
Yes, I regularly commuted to and from College in Soutthshields to Abingdon (Oxon) on a CB350. I never thought of it as an epic solo journey at the time, just something you had to do 🤣.
And how about non GT version does it have manual adjust like your Triumph?
It certainly does.
Indeed the ride is terrible. I drive on mostly super smooth highways and city roads. But the moment I go over a road imperfection such as an interconnection at an over bridge or a tar patch up work, the suspension is so harsh and this is regardless of which mode I am. If I have a pillion, it’s even worse
And that is a great shame for a bike that shines in so many other areas. Marketing gimickery over real functionality. Thanks for the real world experience. 👍
TOTAL SUCCESS Hi Terry , Just a follow up on your Total Fail video. Finally got a company here in Brisbane Australia, who were familiar with re-working the KYB Electronic Suspension. MPE suspension in the suburb of Caloundra done the re valving and other mods to the front forks. The bikeis now a pleasure to ride to quote a old saying "they made a silk purse out of a sou's ear", better go cant wait to get out riding now cheers
That's brilliant. It is great when a knowledgeable company can make great improvements. I would take suspension mods all day over any engine mod, so much more bang for your buck. Shout out to MPE suspension!
Simply Tantastic man 😂😎😎
ta
Yamaha’s SAS means Stupid Ass Suspension. Your killing me brother! Funny!
cheers Bob :-)
I thought the suspension was ok, but the longer I drive my Tracer I can't stand the suspension. it's OK on roads without holes, but when it comes to demanding roads and roundabouts with holes, it doesn't work.
That is a great shame. Manufacturers are getting so prescriptive about suspension, "we know best". Exactly the same as my 2023 low chassis GS, high speed damping is bloody awful and it is quite crashy in those same circumstances.
Terry
Yes. TOTAL FAIL!!! LOL!!
Great video.
Ride SAFE and BE safe!
🙌👏👏👏👏👏👏🤙🖖✌👌👍👋🙂
Thanks 👍
Have to agree the electronic damping is way to harsh ,, bmw s1000rr electronic suspension is just as bad
My ‘23 GS has terrible high speed damping, it’s a bone-shaker on poor roads too.
1200 Bmw gs and the r range are the same, fixed damping levels. I think the 1250 range have an auto setting now
I have a 1250GS on order. I already know the user control over the damping is relatively limited compared to the total and 100% control over the damping on the Triumph Tiger 1200.
If a manufacturer makes a bike for a 10 feet tall driver, it is not for you. I believe that Yamaha MIU programmers didn't make this program for you. You can go 20 years back to find your measurements.
Best regards.
I think I know what you are trying to say. There is a lot to like about this bike but I feel the electronic suspension design is a poor implementation and very restrictive. On a more positive note no one makes us buy a bike and we have a lot of choices.
Lmao, I'm thinking about the 24 model tracer 9gt plus. I know what you're saying. All the japanese bikes are the same way. The only exception is the motor. Other than that, it's always the seat, suspension, throttle response, windscreen, etc, etc. I just hope the 24 model bikes are a bit better. I nominate you to go to Japan and get those little buggers straight 😅
I'm at the airport now..........
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff you headed to Japan? lmao 🤣
@@Charlie-fc1mh no 😬🤣
What were thinking? Who runs that company anyway? They should hire you Terry! But then you wouldn't have time to make great videos, so screw that idea!
DEFO, I haven’t got the time to be running an international motorcycle company! I’m BUSY! 😁
Yamaha have made some great bikes in the last decade, most have been totally compromised by sheeyite cheap poor suspension selection, the earlier MT & XSR models all needed suspension changes to be ridden progressively😬😬 Electronic adjustment will not make it better ? Perhaps the very latest SP models appear more sorted ? Maybe Yamaha designers need to give it a little KISS ??? Keep It Simple Stupid 😂😂😂
KISS - yes, definitely. Yamahas have come under quite some criticism in the bike press around the 900 suspension since it was introduced, some journos are a quite harsh and many too apologetic for it.
I bought a kawasaki ninja 1000 sx to do what my CB1100 can't do. Total fail, that thing. Changed it for a honda NC 750. And that thing makes me happy. Those manufactors better keep it simple IMHO.
I know a few who have recently bought the NC750 new, sound straight forward bike.
A spot on video. You got my like. I test rode the Tracer 9GT and it was a cool ride. Can check it. With some minor downsides it is still a very good ST option. The suspension was a bit hard though. Can check my video.
Will do RRR
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff Cool. Thanks a lot man.
Did you set the preload? Did you have it in A1 or A2? For all I know the person before you cranked that rear preload knob in several more turns cause they weighed 300 llbs lol
@@dougiequick1 Mine is set now. As I ride 70% of the time with cases and I am 100 kg I have it almost at max, one level less and it works for me. The same is at the front. I have the base model. Can check the video I filmed.
You made me go for the standard tracer 9 with the standard suspension
Great choice and if I was buying one today I would do the same.
Tell them like it is! Tel!
🤣😂
Only took me 11 months to reply, I'm gona!
@@terenceokeeffesmotorcyclestuff ha ha, and no holding back in the last 11 months!
Only nonsense
cool
😄😄😄
🤣🤣🤣
I'm going to Birmingham show on Thursday I'll ask the question and let you know 🏍️🛫🛬👍👍👍
Cheers Aaron! 😀