Hi surf pilot, Paul from Thornaby here. About the wind noise problem with your screen, I had a similar issue on a bike I had and the way I solved it was to get half a dozen 5mil thick rubber washers. Where the bottom bolts go through the screen, put a washer each on these bolts, at the top put two washers each. What this effectively does is alter the angel of the screen more upright deflecting more wind over your head. Thanks for all the info on the Tracer, thinking of getting one myself so keep them coming.
+Paul Loughran Hi Paul thanks for the great comment and advice, it sound like a sensible fix. Unfortunately I've just traded it in for the new CRF100L Africa Twin :) another video coming soon.
Omg what the fxxx lol you sound like me swapping bikes. Hope you find what your looking for. Keep the vlogs coming we need honest reviews like yours. Just an idea why don't you road test some bikes and give us your opinions.
I'm planning to change up from my Honda Hornet to a bike more suited to two-up touring and I looked at the Tracer in my local showroom yesterday. Your video provides useful info to help me make a decision. Cheers Tony
+Tony G Hi Tony sorry for the delay this comment went into review for some reason, it really is a great bike especially for touring and would handle 2 up comfortably, I know someone who has just been around Europe on his with his wife. thanks for the great comment mate.
Great review fella. Picked up a brand spanking new one today. It's even more awesome than I remember from the test ride. For the £8k list price I reckon these bikes are still best value for money. Thanks for posting.
I value reviews like this way more than all the MCN etc. reviews - honest opinions from somebody who actually lives with the bike. I laughed aloud at your 59-60mph acceleration. :) nice work ! Subbed.
+Bob Farrell Hi There Bob, thanks very much for the view and Sub matey I do appreciate it. I get a little frustrated at reviews on bikes when they are on a test or demo they simply have not had time to find out the quirks. And are often to scared to say what's wrong (if anything) cause they wont get invited on any more :) Thank again mate I really do appreciate it. I have a Honda Africa Twin now I've had it a Month and I'm planning to do an initial review of that.
Loved the review. You've got that BvG mojo of being genuine, and genuinely entertaining. Hope the surgery recovery is going (went?) well. All the best.
Hi there again, yes thank you I'm as good as new now, i had this bike less than a year, it is great for the money but just not right for me, ride safe my friend.
Brilliant to see you back in the saddle mate and again a fantastic review. I was moaning about how crap MCN and others reviews were the other night and saying how much better most vloggers vids are. This is proof. Comprehensive with no bias and positives and negatives weighed up nicely. Great stuff and chuffed to see you out there pinning that throttle! Ride safe dude x
The Crumble Hi mate, yeah I know what your saying msn have just done a long term report on a bike in 3mins, you just know that's not going be thorough. I know I often fall into the trap of why use 3 words when 40 will do, but if people want to see a review they will stick with it (hopefully) thanks ever so much for stopping by and commenting I truly do appreciate it lover x x
SImply a great review - thanks mate. Glad to hear you are back to health, see you on your travels. You have been a great help in swaying my thinking, and the Tracer is racking up some great points so will definitely be checking that out as I get back in the saddle.
wozza59 Hi Wozza thank you mate, and thanks for noticing, i do try and thank every car driver when they pull over or acknowledge they have seen you it makes making progress so much safer we all have to share the roads showing a bit of courtesy makes everybody's day that bit better, thanks again buddy.
Good acceleration from 59-60mph there! I found that out when I "tested" my newly bought 2019 model, it went, quicker than I expected it to. Coming from a 650 Vulcan I was a little suprised and I was going along for the ride and I realised what the bike was truly capable of, very quickly! What a brilliant bike the Tracer is, great handling, fantastic engine, very good fuel economy and pretty comfortable too. I think the screen will be upgraded eventually but I can live with that for now. I reckon its hard to buy a bad bike these days and you could do a lot worse than the Tracer. Well happy with mine.
Nice way of introducing the bike to me, and many others who haven't as yet rode one, it def has more than enough power to keep a person smiling all the time, i also prefer the gauge cluster over the MT09's rather small & to the side unit. Thank you for not trying to be silly as well, that is a welcome change. Read below that you had a heart issue, glad to hear you are doing much better, do hope things continue to improve for you. Thanks for the info & sharing your thoughts concerning this bike. yl
***** Hey my friend, thank you ever so much for the great and thoughtful comment i really do appreciate it sincerely i do. it's Comments like this that make me feel like i achieved something, thank you.
You are the one who deserves the thanks, after all the time and energy used to make a video, also while recovering from a serious heart issue, you my friend have a good heart, pun intended. The way I see it it's easy to take for granted what others do, and their motives for so doing. I also know what it is like to go through issues in life that are not so fun, riding has helped me a lot, it helped strengthen me in a unique way, only riding could have done, making me more able to do many things, and it's a great stress reliever as well. So thank God & for people who care enough to help. yl
Thanks for your review/opinions on the FJ-09. I started on a 2013 CBR500r. I think the FJ-09 will be my next bike. Good to hear you are doing well after your heart bypass. I subscribed to your channel.
+Ross Jepsen Hi Ross thanks very much for the view and sub mate I really do appreciate it. The FJ09 is a great bike and sound incredible even with the standard can, the acceleration is fantastic, but it is a 900cc so not far off the litre mark. I had a look at the New CBR500r in the Honda dealer last week, they look great for a 500 cc bike. thanks again my friend and ride safe.
Thanks for posting SP very enjoyable to watch. I currently ride an 09 GS and am looking at what I could replace it with at a lesser cost. So this bike looks really interesting. Sorry to read about the heart problem and I hope everything is ok now. One of the reasons I have given SWMBO for changing my bike is at 65 biking time is running out but I am blowed if she will agree with me. Instead she keeps on about the bath room needing an update. Strange creatures these women aren't they.
+john smith Hi there again John thanks for the views and taking the time to comment, I have replied on the GS video, you make me laugh buddy, I had to do the bathroom too, I think she wanted a new suite, I just gave it a fresh coat of emulsion :), I've sold this to get the Africa Twin now too so need to do more painting.
Hi mate. What a brilliant honest review!!! I bought my Tracer back in June but have only managed to put 500 miles on it since then due to work and family issues. We just moved from Catterick in North Yorkshire up to Edinburgh. Very glad to see that you're on the mend, and long may it continue. I had a Triumph Tiger Explorer prior to the Tracer and rated it as a better bike (to me) than the GS, purely down to the engine. I like the Tracer every bit as much as the explorer, and think it's a better bike in many respects, it's definitely a lot lighter! I've subscribed to your channel and will look through some of your other videos. Thanks :)
+pipersg1 Hi there my friend thank you ever so much for the view and sub but equally for a great reply. I love the looks of the tiger but have never had a chance to ride one, the GS engine does take some liking. I too have not done too many miles on my tracer due to work and life, Wow Scotland some fantastic roads up there, go up there every year for a tour and love the place. I hope you get settled and take advantage of those roads and scenery, thanks again my friend i really do appreciate it.
Tested the 2016 tiger couldn't change sodding gear, lever is to short and kept jamming my foot. I'm only size 9 you'd think they'd make one to suite all. Spoiled the test ride
nice and honest review :) been looking for a new bike after a couple of years off because my son was born... this video adds another plus to the list :) thank you
Great review. Open and honest just how they should be. As for the bike, I think I'll be ordering one this week. Looking forward to experiencing that 59 -60 acceleration myself.
+Ron Benson Hey mate thank your for the view and great comment, the acceleration is the best bit of this engine, it will have flying well past 3 figures ;) I mean 60.
Everyone always says it's an adventure bike, Yamaha on there website call it a supersport touring! I appreciate your video and point of view, thank you.
+GripSanity your absolutely right it may have hints of adventure styling but its certainly not an adventure bike, well i know you can adventure pretty much anything, but it is definitely supersport touring the power delivery is just too bonkers for real off road antics. Thanks for the comment mate.
hi sir, one question, with this ermax windshield, and seems like you are wearing dual sport helmet with a beak, how was the riding experience? any issue on top of your helmet?
+pipnmaz Hey man thanks for the view and comment, thanks so much for the like and sub too, I'll nip over to your channel and pay you the same respect buddy
Hi mate you must be from Yorkshire because you do such a great, funny,factual, inspirational video. I enjoyed it from start to finish. Sorry to read about your health issues but hopefully you'll be alright from now on. I'm in the market for a bike like this - I've tried a Tiger XRX (liked it a lot!) and will be riding an 800GS very soon but it sounds like I need to try this Tracer as well. Thanks mate fora great vid. Dave
David Jebson hey up big lad, yeah I'm from yorkshire mate, i love the looks of the tiger, and having had many bmw's i cant fault the quality, but for the money what you get and how light this tracer is not too mention the speed its a good contender. That said i do miss the adventure capable style of those others.Thanks ever so much for taking the time to view and the great comment, you'll have to let me know how you get on, ride safe my friend.
Great video. I'm just about to trade my 700 Transalp in for a Tracer, and your video has pretty much convinced me that I've made the right choice. I don't need a all out adventure bike, so the Tracer looks the right fit.
I have owned a 900 Tracer 2015 for some months now. It has an irritating whining noise in some gears- specifically in top gear at cruising speeds of round 60 mph(100kph)- seemingly a common problem. This disappears at about 70mph(115kph) which is illegal in New Zealand. Something to do with square cut gears and not fixable
I really did find that a good move for me, the CBR was great, but I did enjoy the tracer a lot more so was happy with the change. Ps you have a great channel
@@SurfPilot Ya, the cbr was an awesome bike to learn on (for a "big" bike), but the street triple was really MY bike. I do miss, and think I will miss a lot of things about it going forward, but given my change of location, I think the tracer will better suit my needs. And thanks!
Hi there thanks so much for the view and taking the time to comment, I appreciate it, your mate will love it, it really is a good fun bike, and that triple engine is a peach.
Surf Pilot yeah! I think he's going for it...I ride the R1200GSA and keen to have a go myself! Ride safe
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I rode one for two days and let me tell you... it was fantastic, the power it had, the handling, the passenger space and confort, it is an awesome motorcycle. I just don't like the full digital dash... and the pass signal button is not on the same place as it should.
Great video, bang on with information for people like me who just need some honesty and no bullshit. Feedback about suspension adjustment makes sense listening to a few other reports. Its definitely the favourite for me to upgrade to. Just to tell the good lady now😉.
Hi my friend thanks for the view and comment, it is a really good bike more so for the price, you can be a bit of hooligan on it :) and then just cruise too.
Nice review mate, I really like the look and feel of the MT09 Tracer and I may well be swapping my R1200 GSA for one of those little beauties later in the year ...Also good to see a review on the local roads, I recognised that Layby you started in straight away ... old A1 out of Fairburn ... I'm from Ponte-Carlo .... hehehe ..Keep up the good work, not much surf today ...
+Eric Backhouse (Going Touring) Hi my friend top man! and local too, yeah the Tracer is a great bike and for the money too. I have had a couple of GS's ( not GSA) love those, and being honest I liked the GS better all money being equal, but I do much prefer the adventure style bike. I missed the adventure style so much I have just bought the Honda Africa Twin, a review to come soon but o give you an heads up, it ticks every box, I would say it's the best bike I have ever owned including the GS's I'm going round the Alps on it this year ( it's worth a look and test ride my friend)
How did you adjust your hand guards so that it blocked the wind better? It looks like it's blocking the wind for you. That is one of my complaints about my Tracer/FJ-09..
shin888 Hi mate, i loosened the 2 bolts on the whole mechanism and moved them into a better position, it does move your levers too so you can't move them too much.
+ChuckNinja Kawasaki Cheers my friend, it is a good bike for the money, just not a great bike, but again for that amount of money you can't go wrong or get better, That said I have ordered an Africa Twin as it's replacement for the 1st March :)
I had a question, how long are you, and how heavy are you? because I am thinking to buy a MT 09 Tracer. But I heard you about wind noise and protection, and frond end feel. I have also heard from an other guy that it missed a little damping. It is "under damped" I am 1.80 meters tall and around 80-85kg. So I want to know if these problems are also for me, bigtime or not. yes I am going to testride it my selve, but I just compare with our sizes, so I can make my mind up for what I can expect from the bike, and what I can dail out, I don't have all the money of the world sadly...
+Marijn Kramer Hi there my friend, I'm 1.77m tall and 92kgs and I've now sold the bike, it was great for the money just too many little things that I was not happy with, all personal things, the bike is great for the money, just not for me after owning it. I've now got the New Africa Twin and this bike is perfect in every way!
Really like your vids - always good natured and informative. Just what people about to buy a bike need so thanks. Out of interest what made you go for the Africa Twin? And are you going for the DCT version or the manual? Which colour? Sorry, loads of questions - just it's on my list so I am interested in what others are doing. I saw it at the NEC and loved it - so did the other half so it's pretty much at the top of the list - I was going for a GS...
+Rick P Hey Rick thank you mate, the reason I do these and I know they are not too pro is because when I'm shopping for bikes the reviews are often not real world or actual owners, so appreciate your comment thank you.I miss the adventure riding style and feel of the GS so very much, I don't do too much of off-roading but when I'm out if I do see a green lane it's brilliant to go exploring, I did this on the GS over the pennine way (seriously) I was scared to death doing it, but even to the day I loved every turn of the wheel.The Africa twin is just a beautiful looking bike it actually looks like a true adventure bike, I know that sounds stupid because it is one :) but it will really take me anywhere, it won't be too fast compared to triples and inline 4's, but I'm bored with speed and all my great memories of biking are the tours and adventures, all the fast riding although a blast at the time just makes think I have to slow down :-/ The CRF1000L is fast enough to get you into trouble, but will be nice enough to go anywhere and get me back into enjoying the ride, and the truth is I just love the looks and the hype and it is far cheaper than the GS12.I've gone for the standard box in Tri colour white, the DCT gets raved about for it's off-road capabilities but not too much for on-road, I won't be exploiting the off-road so much, and I do love changing gear and choosing gears manually, I'm not a DCT hater, I just like manual riding, the price difference isn't too much so I guess it's down to what people prefer. Sorry for the long reply, and thanks again for the view and great comment, Ride safe my friend
+Surf Pilot Long reply is great - thanks. Agree with you entirely - been there and done it with sports bikes and sports tourers. Now I'm older I want more comfort and to be able to look around more and enjoy where I am rather than try to go past it all as quickly as possible. Good luck with it - enjoy!
+david taylor Hi David I have sold my Tracer now and have gone for the Africa Twin ( non dct), having had a couple of GS I miss the twin and adventure style bike too much and the Africa twin just got me hooked.
I test rode one a few weeks ago and was disappointed. The seat I found uncomfortable, the bars felt too far forward or too wide and the standard screen was useless in all three positions. Great engine though. Shame as Yamaha have a great bike if they addressed some issues. I test rode the MT09 naked and was terrible on the throttle by wire and again the seat was crap on that as well.
Seat got a lot of complaints from other owners too, I was ok for a couple of hours scratching but no good for long distance or touring, I found the bars ok, but I had a GS before that so I was used to having width, the bike has gone now, one of the shortest times I have owned a bike and I've had a few.
Great and useful review, I really enjoyed it! If you wouldn't mind a question: I'm planning to buy a bike, after a 20-year hiatus without one (but when I did, riding almost every day when there wasn't snow for 10 years), and want something I can ride comfortably for a week or more, touring. No interest in wheelies, big interest in comfort, smoothness and predictability. The MT-09 (FJ 09 here in the US) is one I'm considering. The front end lifting you describe is a bit unnerving and makes me hesitate about getting one. Could you describe what you did to the suspension and how much it helped? Thanks again for a spot-on review.
David Jenkins Hi David the font end lifting only happens when the traction control is switched off, under very very hard (silly) acceleration with the TC on the bike wont wheelie as the engine ECU settles everything down nicely.This bike is predictable and smooth an ideal touring bike. I found the suspension firm on the front and it felt hard over poor asphalt so I took 2 full turns out of each of the front legs to soften the suspension and it really made the bike feel better, i think it is set up too hard for a more sportier ride initially. I think the seat is firm but I'm ok with it as it is. other owners say it uncomfortable. I know of people who have gone round Europe 2 up with a back box installed in ease and loved every mile. Thank you for the great positive comment i do appreciate it my friend. if i can help further give me a shout.
Great news on the heart issue, horrible you had to go through it but you're still here and sounds like you're good as new...or at least will be. Great review on this bike, I have watched all the reviews on you tube...literally all of them, because I wanted to buy one after I test rode it, and since the price is so amazing for this machine and I'm a huge believer in "you get what you pay for". I thought I was missing something and would find some horrible reviews. Other than a recall for a transmission piece, I have found nothing that proves this bike to be unworthy and in fact it's as amazing as it seems to be. I did purchase one and will be picking it up in a couple of days and then posting my own review. Cheers and best of luck with your health and safe riding.
SonicRising Hey Sonic love the name mate, thanks for stopping by and such a great comment. It is a great bike for the money, well it's a great bike period. yeah it has a few niggles but I reckon I could find small issues with every bike, I much prefer to find them on a bike that was this cheap (in comparison) the engine is such peach turn that traction control off and the front comes up under hard acceleration.I've just checked out your channel mate and subbed you, you have a great vlogging voice, that said I do like the American accent :) ( no man I'm just kidding Canadian accent) I have some Canadian friends here in the UK and they take this piss out of my English accent so it's kind of a standard joke about me saying their American accent is cool, clearly the Canadian accent is much cooler. looking forwarding to seeing your review when it's up, and thanks again for stopping by. Ride safe my friend.
Lol, well thanks so much for the sub. My accent is actually a little different from most Canadians because I come from the island of Newfoundland, all our descendants were Irish, Scottish, French and English, so as the generations past they all intermingled and children ended up with hybrid accents and it just snowballed from there. I try my best to tone it down on my videos because nobody would understand a word I said..lol. I haven't had an opportunity this summer to get a vlog done on my channel because I've been so busy and a recent neck injury has prevented me from riding my sport bike, that's why I had to switch to something more neck friendly and give up the Ninja :( Anyway, Thanks for the reply and enjoy the vids.
Great review, I have a 1098 streetfighter duke for silly times but I'm looking for a fun tourer, it's a tracer or bmw f800gt? having had a bmw what made you go for this over a f800 please?, thanks again
+Brett Goodwin Hi Brett, I have a had BMW 800 and the engine is just not fast enough, the engine in this bike is brilliant really fast and sounds nice but still has the torque due to it been a triple so tours nicely, the whole round package of this Yam was better than the 800 BM, thanks for the comment mate
+Surf Pilot you're a star, 6 months on and still replying to your vlog!, I rode the f800 but did find it a great bike but not so enthralling, you've genuinely helped me make a final decision, Thanks again for the great non biased reply
+Brett Goodwin Hey mate you're welcome. yeah the BMW sounds like a lawnmower and I found my self revving it out all the time to get anywhere, good bikes BMW's are to be fair, just not an exciting bike. The MT just makes you smile the sound is brilliant even with the stock can, the speed is amazing, seriously amazing the only real problem to be fair is it's fast and sounds too good going fast, so I find myself riding too fast :)
+Surf Pilot Hi mate, like the new Africa twin, bit of a surprise as the tracer really seemed to suit you. I found the tracer awesome but ended up buying the new triumph tiger sport, ready for some Scotland touring
If you get a chance try to test ride the Aprilla Shiver Gt as I can't decide between that and the Tracer, both cost the same but I love my V twins. I did own a mk2 Tiger and found that ridiculously heavy so don't fancy a new one although I know that are a lot less weight now.
+Peter Claxton I really do like the Aprilla GT mate but never ridden one, as said below I have just bought the New CRF1000L Africa Twin I pick it up on March 1st, I do like my twins and always eventually end up back on one, The Tracer was good, but not great, and it was really more about speed than comfort, all the little things that were not right just got me down. I guess I missed the adventure style bike too and the adventure looking Tracer seemed perfect but in the end not for me. I agree mate the tiger is really heavy, but I think it's a good looking bike, I guess I just needed another Twin in my life
Enjoyed your review very much, wonderfully thorough! Coming to you from the U.S., I’m wondering why I hear you using the term “miles per hour” when I thought the standard unit of measurement on your side of the pond is KPH. Can you fill me in on this one? Thanks!
Hi my friend, in the UK we go MPH, most of the rest of Europe uses KMH, but we still do it the correct way here :) thanks for the view and great comment
I can imagine biking was the last thing in your mind in that situation. A chap I worked with had a MT09 and he loved it, I never had chance to have a ride though. I'm already looking forward to the next batch of videos 👍😁
DervMan Hey my friend, thanks for the great comment, yeah it has been tough but I'm through the other side now, the MT09 is a surprisingly good bike even more so for the money, thanks again for view and comment I do appreciate it.
I was curious as to the vibrations on the bike. When you're cruising around, do you feel any vibrations in the foot pegs or handlebars? I ride a Ducati Monster 796, and the vibrations are most annoying. I can't feel my feet after an hour's riding time. Looking to get something smoother to ride longer in comfort.
navythomas8 the electronic suspension on the newer LC GS was perfect straight from the showroom a press of the switch and everything working fine, but I agree my friend bikes needed to be fitted to the riders weight, thanks for the comment Thomas I really appreciate it.
what exactly was the adjustment to the suspension that you made? looking to purchase one soon, and the suspension was definitely a deterring factor. thanks for the great review
Hi mate, I've now sold mine, but I softened mine off quite a bit as it skipped about on the road. I took 2 full clicks out of the rear and 4 full turns out of the front, It was trial and error when I did mine. I took he right size socket for the front suspension tops out with me and kept adjusting it until it felt better around a sequence of left and right bends. I got a lot of chatter from the front especially on rougher tarmac but these changes, changed the bike. It is such a personal thing though set up but mine was way too stiff from the factory.
Dr. Fronkensteen Hi Mate thanks for the view and comment, sometimes our politeness can get abused, but I always try and thank car drivers for being courteous, it nice for them to actually look out for bikers. We good at standing in queues too :)
Seems like a bad ass bike. Can you turn the traction control off? Can you do real wheelies? I’m looking at this bike and the ktm1090 adventure. I’m torn.
Thanks for stopping by and the great comment, I appreciate my friend, they are a good bike for the money, although I have sold mine now and got an Africa Twin
Congratulations on your wonderful bike. I very much hope it here in Brazil. Unfortunately everything here is delayed and very expensive. But I know the bike and hope to retire it. God be with us :)
Thanks Graham I appreciate that my friend. The Tracer is a great bike, and the triple is smooth, my preference having owned both would be the GS, but that is very much a personal thing. however I have the Africa Twin now and would not swap it for either.
+Andy Bryant hi my friend that's a great deal, for the money and what you get for it, i can't see a better bike on the market for 8k. enjoy my friend and ride safe
Great review sir! I’m considering letting go of my Versys 650 and picking up an FJ-09/Tracer. I see this video is from a few years ago, do you still have it, if so what are your thoughts after few years of ownership? Thank you in advance!
Hi Jeremy thanks for stopping by, unfortunately I have moved on to an Africa twin now, that type of bike suits me better, the FJ09 though was a fantastic bike, a lot quicker and sportier than you would first think. the triple engine in this is a real winner, the suspension at first felt a little vague for me, but i stiffened it all up with a few right clicks on the adjusters and it was a lot better after that. I dont think you will be disappointed.
Driving on the left side of the road just kills me. It messes with me so bad. Nice video btw. I plan on getting a 2019 or 2020 Yamaha FJR 1300es. I have been riding and am still riding my very first motorcycle of 9 years, a Suzuki GSX 650F. It is their first attempt at sport touring I believe. She is made out of tubular steel and the Gixxer engine is geared for touring instead of racing. I am so done with chain maintenance, and want cruise control, electronic suspension, heated grips and so on. I would like a BMW, but I hate boxer engines and the HIGH prices.
Great review bro :) I'm in between this and the new Suzuki Dl650 XT with spoked wheels. There is not much a of a price difference between the two. What would you suggest?
+Işık Çakırlar Hi there thank you for the view and great comment, I have never ridden a DL650 so I would not be able to offer any helpful comparison. I would think the Suzuki is more of an adventure bike and tracer is definitely more of a road bike, so it would depend highly on what you use it for. I miss having the real off road capabilities and I'm thinking of selling this Tracer.
+Fabian Bridger for the money it really can't be faulted, to have it on a short list is a great starting point its then all about you feel on it, thanks for the comment my friend
Hello, I don´t know which bike buy, in my contry Costa Rica, Yamaha doesn´t have test drive for FJ-09 (tracer) and the cost is $15200 but triumph is a excellent motorcycle, I tested the tiger 800 and the motor is increible smooth ( I didn´t feel any vibration on the bike from the engine) and the cost is $18800, so I don´t know if the motor of yamaha is increible than triumph or how much different are between them. because I don´t know if this yamaha´s motor has any vibration from the engine to the handlebar and where you put the feets. THANKS, I really appreciate your help!
+Sky Pilot Hi there SP I would say the Yamaha is better and stronger engine than the Triumph, there is little to no vibration. The Yamaha has the new cross plane crank so it feels like a 4 cylinder to ride, even the power is like a an inline 4. the Yamaha is great value too compared to other bikes as you will know. I have just sold mine though and got a new Honda Africa Twin :) thanks for the view and comment I hope you get sorted.
Some triples do have vibration some quite bad, but honestly this Yamaha feels like a 4 cylinder it actually revs like one too. I had no problems with vibration, you obviously can feel the engine running and revving like all bikes I've owned, I never road more than 3 per hours per journey on this bike though as I never went on a tour on it. so long ride use I can't comment on fairly. but my experience says it would be fine even on long journeys too.
+Angel Diaz de la Cebosa hi there sorry for the delay in responding to you. I lowered the high beam to the same level as the driving light so i could use both by having the main beam switched on without dazzling other road users.
Hi mate thanks for stopping by, I got them off e'bay from a seller, company called Dzell, they did them in amber and white led lights, pretty cheap really and fast delivery I don't know if they are still on there though.
Hi Mate, I have experienced it, you can get the head shaking under hard acceleration but that's just normal I have another video showing this. One time on the Motorway at 70mph it got really wobbly when overtaking an artic/semi, but I put this down to buffeting as it was only the once.
Thanks for the review, i'm considering one of these as my first nice bike as i'm on a clapped out bandit 600 i pickup up to cover as a first big bike. Also lovely to see some local roads on a review. are you still out riding ? as i notice this is a 5 year old video now.
Hi Mark, your very welcome, thank you for watching it. I hope you are well mate, Yeah I'm still out and about well not so much with the lockdown and dam snow, I now have the CRF1000 Africa twin, the tracer was a great bike and a sweet engine, but I traded it in for the Honda. I'm from the Cas area so I guess your from around about here. Nothing wrong with the good old Bandit, I once craved for one.
@@SurfPilot Aye i'm over in the East Leeds area so not far off and have been known to have a wander to squires for a brew and a chin wag. I'm fairly new and late into biking but just trying to find my feet at the moment on what i like, I learnt on the SV650 (which i really enjoyed) over at XS towards yourself. I got the Bandit which is good but its a '96 and its on that knife edge of either needing a full strip and a rebuild, which i'm not sure i want to sink that sort of cash/time into. But we'll see what this new year brings ... hopefully abit more biking and less covid and snow.
I know this was done some time ago ( but have you still got the bike if so is this going well ) I have talked to an old guy in his late 60,s , and he put a upgraded suspension and even put a fork brace on. as he said in high speed cornering it would get some wobble. At present I own a Triumph Tiger 1050 Sport 14 model " it handles fantastic and have not had to do any suspension mods. But thinking of upgrading late this year or early next year to the new 900 Tracer GT , as it has longer wheel base and apparently handles better.
Hi my friend, I sold it a while back now, I had to stiffen the front up to make it handle better, it was not too confidence inspiring if I'm honest, not bad just not great. The newer model has supposed to have improved a lot, but I went down the CRF1000L Africa Twin Route, and love that bike a lot, I have few videos on that., thanks for the view and comment my friend, sorry i can't be much help.
Just the honest warts and all review I'd been looking for. Particularly liked the green lane adventure, if it was me, going off tarmac without putting some duelsport tyres on, I'd have wanted a strong mate riding shotgun off camera to help me pick the 'stard up! Currently own a derestricted DT125R, a Kawasaki KH250 with a 350cc top end conversion and a GSX-R750 K2. The Tracer actually looks like the perfect mash up of all three. I'm getting arthritis so my GSX-R antics and offroading on the DT may be numbered, but this looks like the perfect hooning machine, and you need to see what Simon at S-Tec Performance Newbury is doing to the standard (heavily restricted) ECU maps. Watching your vid was 20 well spent minutes of my life!
Hey John thanks very much my friend, I appreciate the great comment. Yeah going off-road was not the wisest idea I have had especially on my jack jones :) I genuinely don't think you will be disappointed it's pretty much a comfortable hooligan machine, the riding position and engine just encourage rewarding riding, a new MAP and this bike would bonkers, in a good way, as its good already. Thanks again mate for the great comment it's nice to get feedback when someone gets something positive from a video.
+disastron30 hi my friend thanks for the great comment yeah B mode is so user friendly i am in that most of the time. Glad you got one and are enjoying it.
amacon Hi there thanks for the view, the screen still adjust fully when fitted, but in the high position the hand guards do touch slightly on full lock.
Wow, that accelerated from 59-60 really quick!!
+Scot Wilson I know my friend it felt faster at the time ;)
F
It's so quick from 59 to 60, that it generates 4G's of force in 0.000001 seconds. It's like getting hit by a stick of dynamite.
I was really disappointed about how long it took to go from 59 mph to 60 mph. I've decided I'm not going to buy this slow toad of a bike.
No accomplishment is too small, no failure is too big! 😉
Hi surf pilot, Paul from Thornaby here.
About the wind noise problem with your screen, I had a similar issue on a bike I had and the way I solved it was to get half a dozen 5mil thick rubber washers.
Where the bottom bolts go through the screen, put a washer each on these bolts, at the top put two washers each. What this effectively does is alter the angel of the screen more upright deflecting more wind over your head.
Thanks for all the info on the Tracer, thinking of getting one myself so keep them coming.
+Paul Loughran Hi Paul thanks for the great comment and advice, it sound like a sensible fix. Unfortunately I've just traded it in for the new CRF100L Africa Twin :) another video coming soon.
Omg what the fxxx lol you sound like me swapping bikes. Hope you find what your looking for. Keep the vlogs coming we need honest reviews like yours. Just an idea why don't you road test some bikes and give us your opinions.
I'm planning to change up from my Honda Hornet to a bike more suited to two-up touring and I looked at the Tracer in my local showroom yesterday.
Your video provides useful info to help me make a decision.
Cheers
Tony
+Tony G Hi Tony sorry for the delay this comment went into review for some reason, it really is a great bike especially for touring and would handle 2 up comfortably, I know someone who has just been around Europe on his with his wife. thanks for the great comment mate.
"Wherever you are in the world". Hello from Russia! Thank you for video! Cool bike)
Hello Russia and Hello Михаил Рогожин from the UK, thanks for the great comment my friend.
Great review fella. Picked up a brand spanking new one today. It's even more awesome than I remember from the test ride. For the £8k list price I reckon these bikes are still best value for money. Thanks for posting.
+Britainicas hey man thank you, and you are right for 8k you can't fault it really, saying that I've sold mine for a more adventure orientated bike.
I value reviews like this way more than all the MCN etc. reviews - honest opinions from somebody who actually lives with the bike. I laughed aloud at your 59-60mph acceleration. :) nice work ! Subbed.
+Bob Farrell Hi There Bob, thanks very much for the view and Sub matey I do appreciate it. I get a little frustrated at reviews on bikes when they are on a test or demo they simply have not had time to find out the quirks. And are often to scared to say what's wrong (if anything) cause they wont get invited on any more :) Thank again mate I really do appreciate it. I have a Honda Africa Twin now I've had it a Month and I'm planning to do an initial review of that.
Loved the review. You've got that BvG mojo of being genuine, and genuinely entertaining. Hope the surgery recovery is going (went?) well. All the best.
Hi there again, yes thank you I'm as good as new now, i had this bike less than a year, it is great for the money but just not right for me, ride safe my friend.
Glad to hear you're on the mend from your heart surgery. Thanks for the review on the Tracer. Cheers from Canada.
Hey my friend I really do appreciate that comment, Canada is on my bucket list of places to visit.
Surf Pilot definitely stay in touch. Lots of great places to see out here and great mates to ride with 👍
Brilliant to see you back in the saddle mate and again a fantastic review. I was moaning about how crap MCN and others reviews were the other night and saying how much better most vloggers vids are. This is proof. Comprehensive with no bias and positives and negatives weighed up nicely. Great stuff and chuffed to see you out there pinning that throttle! Ride safe dude x
The Crumble Hi mate, yeah I know what your saying msn have just done a long term report on a bike in 3mins, you just know that's not going be thorough. I know I often fall into the trap of why use 3 words when 40 will do, but if people want to see a review they will stick with it (hopefully) thanks ever so much for stopping by and commenting I truly do appreciate it lover x x
SImply a great review - thanks mate. Glad to hear you are back to health, see you on your travels. You have been a great help in swaying my thinking, and the Tracer is racking up some great points so will definitely be checking that out as I get back in the saddle.
Great review mate and great to see a bit of courtesy to the car which moved over for you.. Nice one squire.
wozza59 Hi Wozza thank you mate, and thanks for noticing, i do try and thank every car driver when they pull over or acknowledge they have seen you it makes making progress so much safer we all have to share the roads showing a bit of courtesy makes everybody's day that bit better, thanks again buddy.
Good acceleration from 59-60mph there! I found that out when I "tested" my newly bought 2019 model, it went, quicker than I expected it to. Coming from a 650 Vulcan I was a little suprised and I was going along for the ride and I realised what the bike was truly capable of, very quickly! What a brilliant bike the Tracer is, great handling, fantastic engine, very good fuel economy and pretty comfortable too. I think the screen will be upgraded eventually but I can live with that for now. I reckon its hard to buy a bad bike these days and you could do a lot worse than the Tracer. Well happy with mine.
I could not of said it better my friend, glad you are liking it
Nice way of introducing the bike to me, and many others who haven't as yet rode one, it def has more than enough power to keep a person smiling all the time, i also prefer the gauge cluster over the MT09's rather small & to the side unit. Thank you for not trying to be silly as well, that is a welcome change. Read below that you had a heart issue, glad to hear you are doing much better, do hope things continue to improve for you. Thanks for the info & sharing your thoughts concerning this bike. yl
***** Hey my friend, thank you ever so much for the great and thoughtful comment i really do appreciate it sincerely i do. it's Comments like this that make me feel like i achieved something, thank you.
You are the one who deserves the thanks, after all the time and energy used to make a video, also while recovering from a serious heart issue, you my friend have a good heart, pun intended. The way I see it it's easy to take for granted what others do, and their motives for so doing. I also know what it is like to go through issues in life that are not so fun, riding has helped me a lot, it helped strengthen me in a unique way, only riding could have done, making me more able to do many things, and it's a great stress reliever as well. So thank God & for people who care enough to help. yl
Thanks for your review/opinions on the FJ-09. I started on a 2013 CBR500r. I think the FJ-09 will be my next bike.
Good to hear you are doing well after your heart bypass. I subscribed to your channel.
+Ross Jepsen Hi Ross thanks very much for the view and sub mate I really do appreciate it. The FJ09 is a great bike and sound incredible even with the standard can, the acceleration is fantastic, but it is a 900cc so not far off the litre mark. I had a look at the New CBR500r in the Honda dealer last week, they look great for a 500 cc bike. thanks again my friend and ride safe.
Thanks for posting SP very enjoyable to watch. I currently ride an 09 GS and am looking at what I could replace it with at a lesser cost. So this bike looks really interesting. Sorry to read about the heart problem and I hope everything is ok now. One of the reasons I have given SWMBO for changing my bike is at 65 biking time is running out but I am blowed if she will agree with me. Instead she keeps on about the bath room needing an update. Strange creatures these women aren't they.
+john smith Hi there again John thanks for the views and taking the time to comment, I have replied on the GS video, you make me laugh buddy, I had to do the bathroom too, I think she wanted a new suite, I just gave it a fresh coat of emulsion :), I've sold this to get the Africa Twin now too so need to do more painting.
this is the best video ive found that showcases the bike's sound, thank you
Hi mate. What a brilliant honest review!!! I bought my Tracer back in June but have only managed to put 500 miles on it since then due to work and family issues. We just moved from Catterick in North Yorkshire up to Edinburgh. Very glad to see that you're on the mend, and long may it continue. I had a Triumph Tiger Explorer prior to the Tracer and rated it as a better bike (to me) than the GS, purely down to the engine. I like the Tracer every bit as much as the explorer, and think it's a better bike in many respects, it's definitely a lot lighter! I've subscribed to your channel and will look through some of your other videos. Thanks :)
+pipersg1 Hi there my friend thank you ever so much for the view and sub but equally for a great reply. I love the looks of the tiger but have never had a chance to ride one, the GS engine does take some liking. I too have not done too many miles on my tracer due to work and life, Wow Scotland some fantastic roads up there, go up there every year for a tour and love the place. I hope you get settled and take advantage of those roads and scenery, thanks again my friend i really do appreciate it.
Tested the 2016 tiger couldn't change sodding gear, lever is to short and kept jamming my foot. I'm only size 9 you'd think they'd make one to suite all. Spoiled the test ride
I like the look of the Tiger, but I'm just not in love with it, test rode one too but just did not feel right for me.
nice and honest review :) been looking for a new bike after a couple of years off because my son was born... this video adds another plus to the list :) thank you
Hi my friend it is definitely worth a look for the money, I hope you find something soon, ride safe my friend.
Great review. Open and honest just how they should be. As for the bike, I think I'll be ordering one this week. Looking forward to experiencing that 59 -60 acceleration myself.
+Ron Benson Hey mate thank your for the view and great comment, the acceleration is the best bit of this engine, it will have flying well past 3 figures ;) I mean 60.
Glad to hear you are feeling better and back on a bike. Be safe my friend!
Shawn Kuse Hi Shawn my friend, thank you ever so much for the thoughtful comment really means a lot buddy.
Everyone always says it's an adventure bike, Yamaha on there website call it a supersport touring! I appreciate your video and point of view, thank you.
+GripSanity your absolutely right it may have hints of adventure styling but its certainly not an adventure bike, well i know you can adventure pretty much anything, but it is definitely supersport touring the power delivery is just too bonkers for real off road antics. Thanks for the comment mate.
hi sir, one question, with this ermax windshield, and seems like you are wearing dual sport helmet with a beak, how was the riding experience? any issue on top of your helmet?
Nice to see and hear a good honest review and a local Yorkshire reviewer too!
Subbed, liked and commented.
+pipnmaz Hey man thanks for the view and comment, thanks so much for the like and sub too, I'll nip over to your channel and pay you the same respect buddy
Your right mirror, being almost vertical, gives you a good view of the road behind and the sky.
Hi mate you must be from Yorkshire because you do such a great, funny,factual, inspirational video. I enjoyed it from start to finish.
Sorry to read about your health issues but hopefully you'll be alright from now on.
I'm in the market for a bike like this - I've tried a Tiger XRX (liked it a lot!) and will be riding an 800GS very soon but it sounds like I need to try this Tracer as well.
Thanks mate fora great vid.
Dave
David Jebson hey up big lad, yeah I'm from yorkshire mate, i love the looks of the tiger, and having had many bmw's i cant fault the quality, but for the money what you get and how light this tracer is not too mention the speed its a good contender. That said i do miss the adventure capable style of those others.Thanks ever so much for taking the time to view and the great comment, you'll have to let me know how you get on, ride safe my friend.
BMW build quality is a mythe
I've got 2020 that I love. 900 cc of pure torque. Saddlebag system is top notch. Gas mileage is great
Great, fair and honest review. I have one of these and really like it.
Great video. I'm just about to trade my 700 Transalp in for a Tracer, and your video has pretty much convinced me that I've made the right choice. I don't need a all out adventure bike, so the Tracer looks the right fit.
It is a great bike especially for the money, it pretty quick too as you can see, I've sold mine now though for the new Africa twin :)
top review SP! funny, informative and knocking around near Squires. Subscribed.
+robchester hey my friend thanks for the view and brilliant comment I do appreciate it. Are you local?
+Surf Pilot not too far, North Yorkshire but often stomp around there!
just moved to selby like the look of the tracer what a coincidence!!good review
+john radfelder Hi John thanks for the view and great comment my friend, I ride that way out quite often some nice roads out there.
I have owned a 900 Tracer 2015 for some months now. It has an irritating whining noise in some gears- specifically in top gear at cruising speeds of round 60 mph(100kph)- seemingly a common problem. This disappears at about 70mph(115kph) which is illegal in New Zealand. Something to do with square cut gears and not fixable
Just found your channel and saw the CBR600F in your intro. I also had a cbr600f and now I'm looking at getting a Tracer 900.
I really did find that a good move for me, the CBR was great, but I did enjoy the tracer a lot more so was happy with the change. Ps you have a great channel
@@SurfPilot Ya, the cbr was an awesome bike to learn on (for a "big" bike), but the street triple was really MY bike. I do miss, and think I will miss a lot of things about it going forward, but given my change of location, I think the tracer will better suit my needs.
And thanks!
One of the best reviews , honest , good job.
+nureczek44 sorry for the delay in responding my friend, thank you ever so much for the great comment
Nice review sir! I'll be purchasing mine in about 10 days and looking fw to ride this beast :)
Hi there thanks for the nice comment I do appreciate it, I hope your getting on with yours :)
One of my mates is about to pick one of these up for a spot of touring (an alternative to his R1) - enjoyed the video! Great stuff!
Hi there thanks so much for the view and taking the time to comment, I appreciate it, your mate will love it, it really is a good fun bike, and that triple engine is a peach.
Surf Pilot yeah! I think he's going for it...I ride the R1200GSA and keen to have a go myself! Ride safe
I rode one for two days and let me tell you... it was fantastic, the power it had, the handling, the passenger space and confort, it is an awesome motorcycle. I just don't like the full digital dash... and the pass signal button is not on the same place as it should.
+Fábio Pereira (Serzedo) Hey there thanks for the view and great comment I do appreciate it, I do agree with you also
Recently, I had to sell my GS1200ADV too, and am considering this bike as well, as it’s way less than half the cost of a new BMW in the states.
Paul from Thornaby again, PS forgot to say put washer on the inside of the screen. Old age getting to me.
Thanks again
hi,i put a givi tall screen on mine,at 70 mph realized ,i had left my visor up !no wind at all,glasses steam up ,if i shut visor totally.
+Tony Borzoni hi mater thank for the view and advice on the screen i may have to look at the givi option
thats one awesome bike mate! and the mods you did are awesome!
+Konstantinos Iliadis Hey man thank you ever so much for the great comment a view.
Cheers!
That Yamaha CP3 engine is a lively beast. It LOVES giving you a kick in the butt...
+Riggro your not wrong there it is a brilliant engine, thanks for the view and comment
Thank you! I beleive that when i can, I shall be buying one of these!
Hi Daniel thanks for the view and comment I really do appreciate it, you will love this bike when you get there :)
Great video, bang on with information for people like me who just need some honesty and no bullshit. Feedback about suspension adjustment makes sense listening to a few other reports. Its definitely the favourite for me to upgrade to. Just to tell the good lady now😉.
Welcome back mate. Great review
chonky mon Hey mate thank you very much, really appreciate it.
Really like the hand guard turn signals.
Hey, great video. Thanks for all the good info. I hope to have one of these here in the states sometime in the future. Looks like a super fun ride.
Hi my friend thanks for the view and comment, it is a really good bike more so for the price, you can be a bit of hooligan on it :) and then just cruise too.
Nice review mate, I really like the look and feel of the MT09 Tracer and I may well be swapping my R1200 GSA for one of those little beauties later in the year ...Also good to see a review on the local roads, I recognised that Layby you started in straight away ... old A1 out of Fairburn ... I'm from Ponte-Carlo .... hehehe ..Keep up the good work, not much surf today ...
+Eric Backhouse (Going Touring) Hi my friend top man! and local too, yeah the Tracer is a great bike and for the money too. I have had a couple of GS's ( not GSA) love those, and being honest I liked the GS better all money being equal, but I do much prefer the adventure style bike. I missed the adventure style so much I have just bought the Honda Africa Twin, a review to come soon but o give you an heads up, it ticks every box, I would say it's the best bike I have ever owned including the GS's I'm going round the Alps on it this year ( it's worth a look and test ride my friend)
How did you adjust your hand guards so that it blocked the wind better? It looks like it's blocking the wind for you. That is one of my complaints about my Tracer/FJ-09..
shin888 Hi mate, i loosened the 2 bolts on the whole mechanism and moved them into a better position, it does move your levers too so you can't move them too much.
Brilliant honest review "yorkie" this bike is on my shortlist. Subbed u mate 👍
+ChuckNinja Kawasaki Cheers my friend, it is a good bike for the money, just not a great bike, but again for that amount of money you can't go wrong or get better, That said I have ordered an Africa Twin as it's replacement for the 1st March :)
I had a question, how long are you, and how heavy are you? because I am thinking to buy a MT 09 Tracer. But I heard you about wind noise and protection, and frond end feel. I have also heard from an other guy that it missed a little damping. It is "under damped" I am 1.80 meters tall and around 80-85kg. So I want to know if these problems are also for me, bigtime or not. yes I am going to testride it my selve, but I just compare with our sizes, so I can make my mind up for what I can expect from the bike, and what I can dail out, I don't have all the money of the world sadly...
+Marijn Kramer Hi there my friend, I'm 1.77m tall and 92kgs and I've now sold the bike, it was great for the money just too many little things that I was not happy with, all personal things, the bike is great for the money, just not for me after owning it. I've now got the New Africa Twin and this bike is perfect in every way!
You must be local to me (Garforth) as I recognise that route. My brother has just bought the Tracer 900 GT and loves it !
Really like your vids - always good natured and informative. Just what people about to buy a bike need so thanks.
Out of interest what made you go for the Africa Twin? And are you going for the DCT version or the manual? Which colour? Sorry, loads of questions - just it's on my list so I am interested in what others are doing. I saw it at the NEC and loved it - so did the other half so it's pretty much at the top of the list - I was going for a GS...
+Rick P Hey Rick thank you mate, the reason I do these and I know they are not too pro is because when I'm shopping for bikes the reviews are often not real world or actual owners, so appreciate your comment thank you.I miss the adventure riding style and feel of the GS so very much, I don't do too much of off-roading but when I'm out if I do see a green lane it's brilliant to go exploring, I did this on the GS over the pennine way (seriously) I was scared to death doing it, but even to the day I loved every turn of the wheel.The Africa twin is just a beautiful looking bike it actually looks like a true adventure bike, I know that sounds stupid because it is one :) but it will really take me anywhere, it won't be too fast compared to triples and inline 4's, but I'm bored with speed and all my great memories of biking are the tours and adventures, all the fast riding although a blast at the time just makes think I have to slow down :-/ The CRF1000L is fast enough to get you into trouble, but will be nice enough to go anywhere and get me back into enjoying the ride, and the truth is I just love the looks and the hype and it is far cheaper than the GS12.I've gone for the standard box in Tri colour white, the DCT gets raved about for it's off-road capabilities but not too much for on-road, I won't be exploiting the off-road so much, and I do love changing gear and choosing gears manually, I'm not a DCT hater, I just like manual riding, the price difference isn't too much so I guess it's down to what people prefer. Sorry for the long reply, and thanks again for the view and great comment, Ride safe my friend
+Surf Pilot Long reply is great - thanks. Agree with you entirely - been there and done it with sports bikes and sports tourers. Now I'm older I want more comfort and to be able to look around more and enjoy where I am rather than try to go past it all as quickly as possible. Good luck with it - enjoy!
Thankx SP, just the kind of opinions I was looking for. Honda NC750 dct. or a Tracer ? Your video helped, cheers.
+david taylor Hi David I have sold my Tracer now and have gone for the Africa Twin ( non dct), having had a couple of GS I miss the twin and adventure style bike too much and the Africa twin just got me hooked.
The best review of this bike on youtube! Thank you!
+navsvarigi thank you ever so much for the great comment I do appreciate it my friend
Great review especially when I'm actually considering getting this bike within the next couple of months.
+Shaun Foo i genuinely think you will be impressed, thanks for the view and comment my friend
I test rode one a few weeks ago and was disappointed. The seat I found uncomfortable, the bars felt too far forward or too wide and the standard screen was useless in all three positions. Great engine though. Shame as Yamaha have a great bike if they addressed some issues. I test rode the MT09 naked and was terrible on the throttle by wire and again the seat was crap on that as well.
Seat got a lot of complaints from other owners too, I was ok for a couple of hours scratching but no good for long distance or touring, I found the bars ok, but I had a GS before that so I was used to having width, the bike has gone now, one of the shortest times I have owned a bike and I've had a few.
Great and useful review, I really enjoyed it! If you wouldn't mind a question: I'm planning to buy a bike, after a 20-year hiatus without one (but when I did, riding almost every day when there wasn't snow for 10 years), and want something I can ride comfortably for a week or more, touring. No interest in wheelies, big interest in comfort, smoothness and predictability. The MT-09 (FJ 09 here in the US) is one I'm considering. The front end lifting you describe is a bit unnerving and makes me hesitate about getting one. Could you describe what you did to the suspension and how much it helped? Thanks again for a spot-on review.
David Jenkins Hi David the font end lifting only happens when the traction control is switched off, under very very hard (silly) acceleration with the TC on the bike wont wheelie as the engine ECU settles everything down nicely.This bike is predictable and smooth an ideal touring bike. I found the suspension firm on the front and it felt hard over poor asphalt so I took 2 full turns out of each of the front legs to soften the suspension and it really made the bike feel better, i think it is set up too hard for a more sportier ride initially. I think the seat is firm but I'm ok with it as it is. other owners say it uncomfortable. I know of people who have gone round Europe 2 up with a back box installed in ease and loved every mile. Thank you for the great positive comment i do appreciate it my friend. if i can help further give me a shout.
Great news on the heart issue, horrible you had to go through it but you're still here and sounds like you're good as new...or at least will be. Great review on this bike, I have watched all the reviews on you tube...literally all of them, because I wanted to buy one after I test rode it, and since the price is so amazing for this machine and I'm a huge believer in "you get what you pay for". I thought I was missing something and would find some horrible reviews. Other than a recall for a transmission piece, I have found nothing that proves this bike to be unworthy and in fact it's as amazing as it seems to be. I did purchase one and will be picking it up in a couple of days and then posting my own review. Cheers and best of luck with your health and safe riding.
SonicRising Hey Sonic love the name mate, thanks for stopping by and such a great comment. It is a great bike for the money, well it's a great bike period. yeah it has a few niggles but I reckon I could find small issues with every bike, I much prefer to find them on a bike that was this cheap (in comparison) the engine is such peach turn that traction control off and the front comes up under hard acceleration.I've just checked out your channel mate and subbed you, you have a great vlogging voice, that said I do like the American accent :) ( no man I'm just kidding Canadian accent) I have some Canadian friends here in the UK and they take this piss out of my English accent so it's kind of a standard joke about me saying their American accent is cool, clearly the Canadian accent is much cooler. looking forwarding to seeing your review when it's up, and thanks again for stopping by. Ride safe my friend.
Lol, well thanks so much for the sub. My accent is actually a little different from most Canadians because I come from the island of Newfoundland, all our descendants were Irish, Scottish, French and English, so as the generations past they all intermingled and children ended up with hybrid accents and it just snowballed from there. I try my best to tone it down on my videos because nobody would understand a word I said..lol. I haven't had an opportunity this summer to get a vlog done on my channel because I've been so busy and a recent neck injury has prevented me from riding my sport bike, that's why I had to switch to something more neck friendly and give up the Ninja :( Anyway, Thanks for the reply and enjoy the vids.
Great review, I have a 1098 streetfighter duke for silly times but I'm looking for a fun tourer, it's a tracer or bmw f800gt? having had a bmw what made you go for this over a f800 please?, thanks again
+Brett Goodwin Hi Brett, I have a had BMW 800 and the engine is just not fast enough, the engine in this bike is brilliant really fast and sounds nice but still has the torque due to it been a triple so tours nicely, the whole round package of this Yam was better than the 800 BM, thanks for the comment mate
+Surf Pilot you're a star, 6 months on and still replying to your vlog!, I rode the f800 but did find it a great bike but not so enthralling, you've genuinely helped me make a final decision, Thanks again for the great non biased reply
+Brett Goodwin Hey mate you're welcome. yeah the BMW sounds like a lawnmower and I found my self revving it out all the time to get anywhere, good bikes BMW's are to be fair, just not an exciting bike. The MT just makes you smile the sound is brilliant even with the stock can, the speed is amazing, seriously amazing the only real problem to be fair is it's fast and sounds too good going fast, so I find myself riding too fast :)
+Surf Pilot Hi mate, like the new Africa twin, bit of a surprise as the tracer really seemed to suit you. I found the tracer awesome but ended up buying the new triumph tiger sport, ready for some Scotland touring
If you get a chance try to test ride the Aprilla Shiver Gt as I can't decide between that and the Tracer, both cost the same but I love my V twins. I did own a mk2 Tiger and found that ridiculously heavy so don't fancy a new one although I know that are a lot less weight now.
+Peter Claxton I really do like the Aprilla GT mate but never ridden one, as said below I have just bought the New CRF1000L Africa Twin I pick it up on March 1st, I do like my twins and always eventually end up back on one, The Tracer was good, but not great, and it was really more about speed than comfort, all the little things that were not right just got me down. I guess I missed the adventure style bike too and the adventure looking Tracer seemed perfect but in the end not for me. I agree mate the tiger is really heavy, but I think it's a good looking bike, I guess I just needed another Twin in my life
Enjoyed your review very much, wonderfully thorough! Coming to you from the U.S., I’m wondering why I hear you using the term “miles per hour” when I thought the standard unit of measurement on your side of the pond is KPH. Can you fill me in on this one? Thanks!
Hi my friend, in the UK we go MPH, most of the rest of Europe uses KMH, but we still do it the correct way here :) thanks for the view and great comment
Diego Palma iA
good review,,glad ur back on bikes after ur heart attack..well done
I can imagine biking was the last thing in your mind in that situation. A chap I worked with had a MT09 and he loved it, I never had chance to have a ride though.
I'm already looking forward to the next batch of videos 👍😁
DervMan Hey my friend, thanks for the great comment, yeah it has been tough but I'm through the other side now, the MT09 is a surprisingly good bike even more so for the money, thanks again for view and comment I do appreciate it.
I was curious as to the vibrations on the bike. When you're cruising around, do you feel any vibrations in the foot pegs or handlebars? I ride a Ducati Monster 796, and the vibrations are most annoying. I can't feel my feet after an hour's riding time. Looking to get something smoother to ride longer in comfort.
Hi there, to be honest yes it's a bit buzzy at certain revs, but nothing to put me off or make riding bad, but definitely there though.
Yep every bike has to be adjusted to the Rider. Glad your on the mend!
navythomas8 the electronic suspension on the newer LC GS was perfect straight from the showroom a press of the switch and everything working fine, but I agree my friend bikes needed to be fitted to the riders weight, thanks for the comment Thomas I really appreciate it.
what exactly was the adjustment to the suspension that you made? looking to purchase one soon, and the suspension was definitely a deterring factor. thanks for the great review
Hi mate, I've now sold mine, but I softened mine off quite a bit as it skipped about on the road. I took 2 full clicks out of the rear and 4 full turns out of the front, It was trial and error when I did mine. I took he right size socket for the front suspension tops out with me and kept adjusting it until it felt better around a sequence of left and right bends. I got a lot of chatter from the front especially on rougher tarmac but these changes, changed the bike. It is such a personal thing though set up but mine was way too stiff from the factory.
What do you ride nowadays and why did you get rid of the FJ?
8:00 - Love it! You Brits are so courteous. :-) Wish people were that polite in my artificially-bounded nation-state.
Dr. Fronkensteen Hi Mate thanks for the view and comment, sometimes our politeness can get abused, but I always try and thank car drivers for being courteous, it nice for them to actually look out for bikers. We good at standing in queues too :)
Glad you are well now, keep on riding.
Pretty accurate review mate. I had to adjust the front suspension as well. I'll have to look at that auxiliary lighting. Ride safe mate.
Seems like a bad ass bike. Can you turn the traction control off? Can you do real wheelies? I’m looking at this bike and the ktm1090 adventure. I’m torn.
Thanks for the excellent review, thinking of buying one of these
Thanks for stopping by and the great comment, I appreciate my friend, they are a good bike for the money, although I have sold mine now and got an Africa Twin
Congratulations on your wonderful bike. I very much hope it here in Brazil. Unfortunately everything here is delayed and very expensive. But I know the bike and hope to retire it. God be with us :)
Hi! I would like to know where do you get the fog light & that hand guard light thing? Is there a website for those?
Ruji Yu Dzell handguard's and genuine Yamaha fog lights both from ebay
Great review mate... Much better than the usual.. I shall be looking at this bike when this covid19 nonsense is over.. Or maybe the GS..🤔
Thanks Graham I appreciate that my friend. The Tracer is a great bike, and the triple is smooth, my preference having owned both would be the GS, but that is very much a personal thing. however I have the Africa Twin now and would not swap it for either.
I got myself a red one and loaded it and I absolutely love it and I only pay £ 154 a month for it
+Andy Bryant hi my friend that's a great deal, for the money and what you get for it, i can't see a better bike on the market for 8k. enjoy my friend and ride safe
Enjoyed your video. Can you tell me exactly what wind screen you have? I just purchased an FJ-09 and have a few questions.
Thanks so much.
Robert MacCready Hi my friend thank you. the screen is an Ermax 50cm in dark smoke. I believe it's European company.
Great review sir! I’m considering letting go of my Versys 650 and picking up an FJ-09/Tracer. I see this video is from a few years ago, do you still have it, if so what are your thoughts after few years of ownership?
Thank you in advance!
Hi Jeremy thanks for stopping by, unfortunately I have moved on to an Africa twin now, that type of bike suits me better, the FJ09 though was a fantastic bike, a lot quicker and sportier than you would first think. the triple engine in this is a real winner, the suspension at first felt a little vague for me, but i stiffened it all up with a few right clicks on the adjusters and it was a lot better after that. I dont think you will be disappointed.
That was well done, thanks! Can you tell me what kind of range you're getting from a tank?
Hi mate sorry for the delay, I was achieving mid 40mpg and around 150 miles per tank. it did get worse than that but I rode this bike like an idiot :)
Driving on the left side of the road just kills me. It messes with me so bad. Nice video btw. I plan on getting a 2019 or 2020 Yamaha FJR 1300es. I have been riding and am still riding my very first motorcycle of 9 years, a Suzuki GSX 650F. It is their first attempt at sport touring I believe. She is made out of tubular steel and the Gixxer engine is geared for touring instead of racing. I am so done with chain maintenance, and want cruise control, electronic suspension, heated grips and so on. I would like a BMW, but I hate boxer engines and the HIGH prices.
"Yamerr-aah"! Great detailed review mate.
Hi my friend thank you for taking the time to watch it, and more so for the great comment.
Anytime mate - refreshingly candid, informative and entertaining review. I just bought one - pick it up on Saturday!
and u can wheelie in the first four gears in A mode
Great review bro :) I'm in between this and the new Suzuki Dl650 XT with spoked wheels. There is not much a of a price difference between the two. What would you suggest?
+Işık Çakırlar Hi there thank you for the view and great comment, I have never ridden a DL650 so I would not be able to offer any helpful comparison. I would think the Suzuki is more of an adventure bike and tracer is definitely more of a road bike, so it would depend highly on what you use it for. I miss having the real off road capabilities and I'm thinking of selling this Tracer.
Great video. What make model was the windscreen did you say Puig Airmax?
+Mister Frank Hi Frank thanks for the view and great comment, its the Ermax 50cm screen.
Hope you're getting better!
Hey my man, thank you ever so much. I'm doing brilliant and now riding an Africa Twin. Thanks again for the personal question, you're a good person.
Yes, now have a Triumph Explorer, love it.
Great Review... Definitely on my short list when I buy my next bike!
+Fabian Bridger for the money it really can't be faulted, to have it on a short list is a great starting point its then all about you feel on it, thanks for the comment my friend
Hello, I don´t know which bike buy,
in my contry Costa Rica, Yamaha doesn´t have test drive for FJ-09 (tracer) and the cost is $15200 but triumph is a excellent motorcycle, I tested the tiger 800 and the motor is increible smooth ( I didn´t feel any vibration on the bike from the engine) and the cost is $18800, so I don´t know if the motor of yamaha is increible than triumph or how much different are between them. because I don´t know if this yamaha´s motor has any vibration from the engine to the handlebar and where you put the feets.
THANKS, I really appreciate your help!
+Sky Pilot Hi there SP I would say the Yamaha is better and stronger engine than the Triumph, there is little to no vibration. The Yamaha has the new cross plane crank so it feels like a 4 cylinder to ride, even the power is like a an inline 4. the Yamaha is great value too compared to other bikes as you will know. I have just sold mine though and got a new Honda Africa Twin :) thanks for the view and comment I hope you get sorted.
+Surf Pilot thanks, I really appreciate your answer, because I don't want to waste this money in a motorcycle that hasn't a good and smooth engine
Some triples do have vibration some quite bad, but honestly this Yamaha feels like a 4 cylinder it actually revs like one too. I had no problems with vibration, you obviously can feel the engine running and revving like all bikes I've owned, I never road more than 3 per hours per journey on this bike though as I never went on a tour on it. so long ride use I can't comment on fairly. but my experience says it would be fine even on long journeys too.
very nice your bike,
where can i find a screen like yours?
thanks
+motardato94 hi my friend the screen is a ermax 50cm google search will find the one, if you are struggling i will post a link let me know.
Fantastic review Sir:) this is now on my list!
Hi my friend thank you very much, it is a fantastic bike especially for the money ( albeit I've since sold mine now)
Hello! Could you tell us or explain how to have both leds on using normal light?
+Angel Diaz de la Cebosa hi there sorry for the delay in responding to you. I lowered the high beam to the same level as the driving light so i could use both by having the main beam switched on without dazzling other road users.
good down to earth review mate, pick mine up next week 😀
Cheers Griff, I' know you will enjoy it mate.
great review :-) the indicators on your hand guards where you get them from?
Hi mate thanks for stopping by, I got them off e'bay from a seller, company called Dzell, they did them in amber and white led lights, pretty cheap really and fast delivery I don't know if they are still on there though.
@Surf Pilot Hello, are you getting any wobbling issues on high speeds? I heard its caused by windscreen
Hi Mate, I have experienced it, you can get the head shaking under hard acceleration but that's just normal I have another video showing this. One time on the Motorway at 70mph it got really wobbly when overtaking an artic/semi, but I put this down to buffeting as it was only the once.
Thanks for the review, i'm considering one of these as my first nice bike as i'm on a clapped out bandit 600 i pickup up to cover as a first big bike. Also lovely to see some local roads on a review. are you still out riding ? as i notice this is a 5 year old video now.
Hi Mark, your very welcome, thank you for watching it. I hope you are well mate, Yeah I'm still out and about well not so much with the lockdown and dam snow, I now have the CRF1000 Africa twin, the tracer was a great bike and a sweet engine, but I traded it in for the Honda. I'm from the Cas area so I guess your from around about here. Nothing wrong with the good old Bandit, I once craved for one.
@@SurfPilot Aye i'm over in the East Leeds area so not far off and have been known to have a wander to squires for a brew and a chin wag. I'm fairly new and late into biking but just trying to find my feet at the moment on what i like, I learnt on the SV650 (which i really enjoyed) over at XS towards yourself. I got the Bandit which is good but its a '96 and its on that knife edge of either needing a full strip and a rebuild, which i'm not sure i want to sink that sort of cash/time into.
But we'll see what this new year brings ... hopefully abit more biking and less covid and snow.
What is your opinion about its 2-up suitability? Do you have a guess or opinion?
I know this was done some time ago ( but have you still got the bike if so is this going well ) I have talked to an old guy in his late 60,s , and he put a upgraded suspension and even put a fork brace on. as he said in high speed cornering it would get some wobble. At present I own a Triumph Tiger 1050 Sport 14 model " it handles fantastic and have not had to do any suspension mods. But thinking of upgrading late this year or early next year to the new 900 Tracer GT , as it has longer wheel base and apparently handles better.
Hi my friend, I sold it a while back now, I had to stiffen the front up to make it handle better, it was not too confidence inspiring if I'm honest, not bad just not great. The newer model has supposed to have improved a lot, but I went down the CRF1000L Africa Twin Route, and love that bike a lot, I have few videos on that., thanks for the view and comment my friend, sorry i can't be much help.
All good thanks
A and Standard mode has the exact same power, its simply changes the trottle respons.
Just the honest warts and all review I'd been looking for. Particularly liked the green lane adventure, if it was me, going off tarmac without putting some duelsport tyres on, I'd have wanted a strong mate riding shotgun off camera to help me pick the 'stard up!
Currently own a derestricted DT125R, a Kawasaki KH250 with a 350cc top end conversion and a GSX-R750 K2. The Tracer actually looks like the perfect mash up of all three.
I'm getting arthritis so my GSX-R antics and offroading on the DT may be numbered, but this looks like the perfect hooning machine, and you need to see what Simon at S-Tec Performance Newbury is doing to the standard (heavily restricted) ECU maps.
Watching your vid was 20 well spent minutes of my life!
Hey John thanks very much my friend, I appreciate the great comment. Yeah going off-road was not the wisest idea I have had especially on my jack jones :) I genuinely don't think you will be disappointed it's pretty much a comfortable hooligan machine, the riding position and engine just encourage rewarding riding, a new MAP and this bike would bonkers, in a good way, as its good already. Thanks again mate for the great comment it's nice to get feedback when someone gets something positive from a video.
i' ve just got one 2 days ago. I can not believe how noob friendly tha motorcycle is at B mode.
That is my first ever bike.
+disastron30 hi my friend thanks for the great comment yeah B mode is so user friendly i am in that most of the time. Glad you got one and are enjoying it.
+Surf Pilot Thank you for responding. Don't forget to mention any tips for us noob riders. Keep up the good work. Greetings from Greece
when you install the after market windsield, do you lose the ability to adjust it?
amacon Hi there thanks for the view, the screen still adjust fully when fitted, but in the high position the hand guards do touch slightly on full lock.
***** thank you m8! was asking 'cause i'm gonna buy the bike very soon and noone had ever mention that small detail! Enjoy your rides safely!