Ahh the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT in its national habitat , doing habitual wheelies for attracting other triples in the area for more wheelies advancing the species forward into wheeling all around
You are the one person on this Earth that I actually envy. You get PAID to drive new motorcycles on a regular basis. Really, I mean,come on dude. Do they realize that I (just about anyone) would do it for free. Truly you are the luckiest person ever. Drive safe my man. Enjoy your reviews.
Michael Barber A picture of Leonardo DiCaprio on his yacht with 7 top models half naked immediately popped in my mind. You may want to reconsider he’s the only one you envy. 😂
I’ve owned this bike for the last 8 months and have done many long distance trips including a cross country trip and I must say this bike is almost perfect. I really only have 2 minor complaints. One being the key ignition spot and two is the cheap blinkers. No idea why they didn’t use the ones from the Super Tenere. That’s it, absolutely love the bike
Love these videos. The presenters do a great job of making the reviews subjective to themselves which is important. When a reviewer says "The seat height is just way too high" , or "the ergonomics are spot on" and don't make reference to their height, well the review doesn't really hold up. These guys always do a great job of pointing out what does and doesn't work for THEM and why.
I have a '15 FJ 09 and my buddy has this 2019 Tracer 900 BASE Model. We swapped bikes back to back and I prefer the 2019 over my 2015. I'm 6'2" and feel more comfortable on the 2019. Better seat, better riding position, and it's way more stable on the highway. The bike doesn't vibrate as much as the 2015. 2019 is much more refined over the previous generation. 10/10 recommend.
Since a month i got the Tracer 900gt in phantom blue. And im loving this bike! Handeling is good! And its comfy. Especially for the long trips. Indeed the fuel meter isnt helpfull, But you got 2 trip meters, no problem. I am really glad i bought this bike! Greetings from the Netherlands
The GT also comes with the "Fuel consumed" under the odometer. I use this as much or more so than the fuel gauge. It's pretty accurate and provides more peace of mind(to me) than the fuel gauge.
Comfortable? In std trim i have found the seat to be absolutely pathetic. I often ride 1000km or more in a day. It's something I feel Yamaha seriously need to be looking at
Ok... As a 2015 TRACER 900 owner, I'll say if this is you're first Tracer, get the GT for those upgrade stuffs. But if you already have an old Tracer like me and thinking on get new GT, just save the money, you can get heated grip form YAMAHA and is for Tracer, plug in and go. Quick shifter can also add on easily. Suspension upgrade also got lot choice to. Luggage system, whole bunch of great cases bags you can get. Biggest improve of new Tracer for me is the stability increased by extra the swingarm length. So if you like cruise fast on highway, get the GT :3
Thanks for the info. I plan on purchasing a Tracer 900 soon. My plan was to get a 2015 model because they are the cheapest and not much difference. The 2015 has the same engine as the 2018 GT model? How many miles can you ride on one tank of fuel?
@@mariosavva999 I have a 2015 and usually get 44-48 mpg. The fuel light starts flashing around 160-180 miles and I think I can get close to 40 miles on reserve. I usually fuel up around 180 but max range is probably 200 to maybe 220.
When you compare this to its main competitor, the Versys 1000, that 13k price tag suddenly doesn't look so bad. This bike is an upgrade from a Versys 650, not a direct competitor.
I have a 2015 "Fudge," that I picked up last year for $8,500 new in the box. That janky fuel gauge is by far my biggest gripe! I am consistently getting over 48mpg on mine. It can get higher, but my commute includes a lot of 80MPH freeway riding. Love the FJ!
Chris Rudecki I paid extra for the led indicators with riststers included. They are used as running lights then when indicating the orange led are brighter. They accessories indicators are much better looking than the standered ones.
I just bought Tracer GT today! I love the different riding modes. Traded in my 2009 FJR1300 and I’m never lookin back. ! A little better upward stance to help the back and shoulders . The bags are smaller than the FJR so I mounted a Givi tail bag after removing the side handles. The Givi sits a little forward on the seat but I don’t plan on carrying any riders. Also, I have room behind me to strap my small carry on luggage.
What kind of minimum payment am i looking at on one of these? I looked on their website at the financing, did the math, and came up with somewhere in the neighborhood of $400usd per month, but that doesn't sound quite right. Friends of mine with more expensive bikes are like, "no way, it'll be half that."
Hold on TMF!.... What do you mean you don't like the paint scheme!... "Black/ purple is the colour you said you would have over the airfix grey 900GT you were testing!"...old age catching you up I think!... Lol
I have a 16 fudge, that I picked up for 6k used. Replaced the seat, suspension, ti Akra, windscreen, brakes, ktm handguards with mt09 barends, reflashed the Ecu and added quick shifter. Now I need to add cruise control = perfection. All for thousands less than a new goo
i plan on getting one of these in the near future. I sat on one a few months back just to see if my feet touched the ground. I was surprised that at 5'9" i could solidly get the balls of both feet on the ground.
I dropped a $20 wind deflector on the top of the stock windscreen and it fixed it for me. Sends the wind over my helmet. Can adjust it to personal preference too.
i'm 5'6 145 lbs and I just bought this bike. Absolutely love it, got a slighthandlebar riser that brouth it 20mm closer and 30mm higher and it made a world of difference. i have to tiptoe. im used to it. im ok with the height as i got this for touring not commuting. get one!
What about the wind protection? I’d like to get one to commute on the motorway (70-90mph) with a passenger. I’m worried about exhaustion from long rides because of the wind pressure.
I appreciate the low vocal volume so you don't disturb the neighbors in the morning. However, the bike is louder than your voice. And I like the bike a lot.
I own a 16 FJ09. The price difference is actually not bad when you consider the luggage is $900, aftermarket cruise is a few hundred, the heated grips are a little over $200 and then consider the other upgrades of the seat, longer swing arm, the tft display and the easier adjustable wind screen make that difference even closer. What kicks it up is the better adjustable suspension. So yeah the price is right in line. Oh and yeah the ignition spot sucks but really not the worst thing in the world.
As an all-round bike, this, and the Versys 650/1000 are very hard to beat. They do everything on public roads well: commuting, touring, having fun in the twisties. If your budget only allows one bike,one of these should be on your short list. I have a Versys 1k, same price as the Tracer 900 GT, couldn't be more happy with it. To the extent that I'm getting rid of my car.
@@ag096 I had an '07 V-Strom 650 for almost 9 years and 70k miles. Loved every mile on that bike. They're pretty much bullet proof, it never left me stranded. And yes, it's also an excellent all-round bike, with the added bonus of the 19" front wheel that allows for (light) off-roading.
I just sold a 2016 Multistrada 1200S and bought one of these and absolutely love it! Already fitted a full Delkevic exhaust and would take this bike any day over the Multi.
@@reeve668 the Multistrada was a great bike to ride but I had way too many issues with it and sold it after 7 months. The 900GT is so much more reliable.
I have a 15 Fudge. I was looking forward to the new updates, but it seems like the bike has the same flaws as mine, especially the fuel gauge. You get standard luggage, but I can add panniers for less than the difference in cost, not real point to upgrading. That said, I love the fudge, those floating wheelies leaving a stoplight satisfies the soul. Also, I respectfully disagree about the Versys, the Tracer's engine is soooo much better than IMO what is a really buzzy Versys.
I like bike reviews, but I don't understand the value of a review going in straight lines, through town. Not sure what value that brings. But, I appreciate the information.
Downshift, then hard front brake, pull in a clutch so that there is still power to the rear but the clutch will slip and bike won't stall and then push the rear brake, don't block it though - do all of that in quick succession and you will get there.
Well, actually, you make use of all for, so we are perfectly fit for backing it in, as if WE WERE MEANT TO RIDE THAT WAY :D . Plus, you only need the left foot b4 entering the turn, which leaves you free to stick it out for some extra cool factor on left hand turns.
Well, I'm guessing you aren't talking from experience, but rather a TV screen. First of all, motoGP riders absolutely do use the rear, both on entry and in the corner (I've reuploaded this great video from Scott Redding that illustrates it nicely: th-cam.com/video/TT_QvMuopAE/w-d-xo.html). And yes, the top of the top are good enough to back it in without touching the rear brake, but that is hardly the way to learn it and hardly the way we will ride. Even guys running in the SM championship I sometimes ride with (I don't claim to be anywhere near their level) rely on rear brake heavily.
Very nice video! I am between a new versys 650 and a used tracer 900 2019 (no gt version unfortunately) I had a lot of motorcycles in the past and currently have a fz6 fazer s2 and need a more upright relax position, I commute every day in a big city and use it for small and big trips in Greece usually two up but also solo, I like to the turns and I don't afraid to put any of my bikes on a dirt road ( even my cbr 1000 rr I used to own) which of this two bikes you would get in my place?
Wild Biker Bill, in that case, get a Versys 1k rather than the Ninja 1k. In June I rode on my Versys 1k from Miami, FL to Albuquerque, NM in 52 hours, and was completely comfortable.
With regards the comment about a guy selling the bike because of the wind buffering issues, I also sold my NC700X for the same reason, I tried 3 different windshields but no improvement, all that buffering on your helmet becomes really frustrating. It is like a curse on these style of bikes. I don't understand it. Even regular naked bikes like the SV650 are better. You buy these adventure bikes for the comfort and end up with an unsolvable wind fatigue issue. I think it has to do with the fairing design so no matter what screen you use, the fairing will still dump all that wind on you.
Zack, I usually trust your reviews- for some reason you don't like this bike but you embrace the Versys 650LT... is it price driven? I'm between the BMW F900XR, Tracer GT and the Versys 650LT
Richie, Also a xsr900 owner here. Don't think this bike will be as snappy as the xsr900 being 500 lbs & has a longer swingarm now to minimize wheelies.
Am I the only one that likes the styling of the FJ-09 more than the new tracer? I specifically sought out a new left over 2017 FJ-09 and paid thousands less because I think they look better. I also like the blue color a lot more than all the other options. The only things I feel like I'm missing out on are cruise control and the quick shifter which I will add later on. Plus I still have the option to upgrade the suspension later on if I feel the need. So far the handling is great for me. I doubt I will be pushing this bike hard enough to need new suspension any time soon.
SOLID review. You cover the bases without all the excess rambling I've seen on other sites. I'm considering coming down in heft from my 2012 Tiger Explorer, but dealers in my area are afraid of test rides due to added mileage on bikes. Since I haven't wrangled a test ride, would I notice an improvement in weight and ease of slow speed maneuvering?
I couldn't agree more about the fuel gauge. I've had my 2017 FJ09 for a little over a year now and think that the first bar disappears when the tank is half empty. I get a little over 50 miles/gallon and just use the trip milage as a more accurate fuel gauge. I do love everything else about the bike!
The GT dash also comes with a resettable fuel consumed feature (located under the Odo reading), so you don't have to rely on the fuel completely. It's pretty accurate.
Could either be the linkage for the fuel level in the tank that creates the sudden drop, or could be bad calibration from the sending unit. That's not the only motorcycle that does this, as I recall other bikes I've owned over the years taking a while to respond to dropping fuel level and then quickly diminishing indicated levels on the meter after that. It's not proportionate to the actual loss of fuel for the first half tank.
It is intentional since the first bar represents the first half of the tank. Motorcycle tanks are pretty angled, getting an accurate reading from a floater is pretty hard to pull off. Yamaha didn't bother with the engineering hassle and have the floater only operating in the bottom half (I have a 2016 Tracer)
This would require the floater mechanism to cover the full vertical height of the tank. Yamaha took the easy way out, but I appreciate the Tracer being very affordable. My old bike didn't have a fuel gauge at all
Can't wait for the T7 that could potentially be the best all-rounder ever. Good off-road and yet with plenty of legs for freeway riding, and best of all Light Weight! But maybe they could even make a T9??? And fully adjustable suspension? That is, if they ever make it.
They're pretty hard to find right now. I rode over to New york to look at one last weekend. It was actually smaller than i pictured... which is good. For some reason i was picturing it being tall and dirt bikey. I'm 5'9" and i had the balls of my feet on the ground but not flat-footed, which is lower than i expected too. Definitely going to buy one in a month or so. I love the look of it, the features.... and i'll be able to more than a hundred miles without pinching a nerve in my shoulder.
I have an FZ-09 and I’m not a fan of the bar tach. Coming from an FZ6R, I love the analog tach. When I saw it light up yellow when you needed to shift, however, I got instantly jealous. I would really like that.
I hear the 2 up with luggage load capacity, will quickly overwhelm the rear shocks abilities. Also, hearing complaints of drivers and pillions foot pegs were placed too close together. If your foot size is a size 10 or above, you're playing footsie quickly. That would be bad if true.
I've been on a Road King for the last 5 years. My next bike will not be a Harley. I'm struggling with which way to go. I'm a big guy at 6'2 265. I need to sit on one of these soon.
Do not go off-road with it. I did last week, had to use JB Weld to get out of the woods and just bolted on the new oil pan today. The oil pan is almost legendarily vulnerable on this bike. I've got a protector coming for mine, some people have hit it even on speed bumps.
6'6", and it fits. I did the demo ride, and should be taking delivery next week for my new 2018 Tracer 900 (not GT). I'll be adding 2" bar risers. That's my only planned mod.
I also get the Versys 650 love, but it doesn't have the leg room I need. I wanted one in 2011, but just don't fit. I ended up on a VStrom 650, which is easy to mod for tall folks. (Bar riser, lower pegs, tall touring seat, mad stad bracket)
I just saw, yesterday, my old favorite bike pass me, a 1987 FJ1200. This looks like a modern version of that bike. How does this compare in power to the old FZ1 ? The little wheelie off the line would be like my KLR650. The tire just skipping across the pavement.
Zack, how would you compare this to a S1000XR overall in terms of power, ergos (I'm 6'3" with someone who's raced moto for 20+ years knees, ankles, wrists...). I know that there is a fairly big price difference, just curious if you think that the XR is worth the extra $ (and there's also that reliability thing when talking BMW vs Yamaha...). Thanks!
I'm 5ft 6 and Yamaha offer the lower seat option aswell as lust racing lowering kit fitted when you buy so I can get my feet flat on the floor. I'd like to see a comparison with the MV Augusta turismo.
Same complaints that I have about my 2017 FZ-09, the blinkers are aesthetically awful, the fuel gauge read out is even worse on the FZ because you only have 3.5 gallons and it starts flashing and changes the dash to fuel trip with a gallon left, the seat is a plank. The options on this bike are nice to have but do they really make it a $14K bike?
Not maybe the direct competitors, but what you would choose between Z1000SX and this Tracer GT bike? As somebody from Instagram already asked, looking for the comfy bike which can do lot of miles, but to be entertaining enough. Huge salute Zack!
I did want this bike for Sports Touring .. Even though I like the Triumph Tiger Sport 1050 much better it's not sold in the USA anymore .. They I decided I want to ride places that have gravel roads ect.. so I decided that the Triumph Tiger 800 XCA is the bike for me .. I may keep my FZ-07 for on road trips only ...
what do you think of the seat? I've read poor reviews of it, though that could be the previous model. I note yam's 'comfort' seat is a hideous price....
Looking at purchasing how is it with a passenger. There was a mention of brakes not being up to snuff.Also considering fjr1300 .. price has me leaning towards tracer ..l need some feedback please
So you still prefer the Versys 650 😎; i own a CB500X, if Honda don’t make a new model like a CB650X in close future (2-3 years): i will highly consider to upgrade for a Versys 650; cheers from Montreal!
I've got a Versys 650(2009) and I've ridden a CB500X(2017) for a thousand miles, and I've gotta say that the CB500X is significantly buzzier at speeds over 70mph, especially over 80mph, though they both have the same top speed. The versys is quite a bit larger, it's taller, longer and bulkier. The CB500X doesn't let you switch riding position as much as the Versys does, I was basically stuck with sitting upright on the CB500X, on the Versys I can do everything from an upright seated position to lying down on the tank like a sport bike. The CB500X is more off-road capable, but the Versys is more comfortable on the highway. They're both eminently flickable, agile bikes, and fun to take through twisties though, with perhaps a little bit of an edge to the CB500X for being a little smaller and a little more nimble. I should note that when I returned my rented CB500X, it didn't have any chicken strips left on it(there was 2 inches before I rented it).
Kaerius : thanks for sharing nice informations; do you think it would worth it to swap my CB500X 2017 for a Versys 650 in 2-3 years? Thanks for your opinion & toughts🤗
They're probably a bit too alike that I'd say the difference is 100% worth it. The Versys wins on comfort, but it's not by that much. I'd be looking either towards the Tracer 900, which is what I'm planning to upgrade to(probably a non-GT from 2015, which is when they introduced the slipper clutch), or something even more touring oriented. If you want to off-road on an adventure bike, look at the Africa Twin. The problem with giving advice like this is that I don't know key things about you like your preferences, or inseam(how high of a seat you can handle).
aluisious height is never an issue unless you try to zigzag in between cars while lanesplitting in heavy traffic at 5 km/h. I dropped a Multistrada because I could only reach the ground with one of my foot.
DANG IT I miss my FJ-09! My first and only motorcycle, and now I'm feeling the itch again. I've looked at the options, and I really can't find anything else that meets my criteria like this bike. I can't believe it, but I think I'm going to re-buy the same (albeit upgraded) bike. The only other options that make any sense are the Hayabusa (too heavy, and no storage), and the MT-10 (terrible range). I like to ride far and tear up the twisties when I get there, and this bike (speaking from experience) does both of those things quite well. EDIT: Also, the Hayabusa has no cruise control, and when you're riding hundreds of miles a day, you kind of want that.
Indicator button is in the wrong place should be below the horn the seat is not so good. Ride modes are great especially A mode in the twisties. For the price, it's a hard bike to beat. Take the screen off if it's so hot.
The 900 is all the bike you need. Forget the GT and the extra $3k. Actually, either the V-Strom 650 or 650 Versys is all the bike you need, for less $$$. And the V-Strom will go off-road better with its 19" front wheel. Why can't all windshields adjust as easily as the Yamahauler?
Ahh the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT in its national habitat , doing habitual wheelies for attracting other triples in the area for more wheelies advancing the species forward into wheeling all around
Fantastic rant my dude. Got a good auqua teen hunger force vibe from it . thanks for the chuckle
You are the one person on this Earth that I actually envy. You get PAID to drive new motorcycles on a regular basis. Really, I mean,come on dude. Do they realize that I (just about anyone) would do it for free. Truly you are the luckiest person ever. Drive safe my man. Enjoy your reviews.
Michael Barber A picture of Leonardo DiCaprio on his yacht with 7 top models half naked immediately popped in my mind. You may want to reconsider he’s the only one you envy. 😂
Haha, yes, it's a pretty sweet deal
I’ve owned this bike for the last 8 months and have done many long distance trips including a cross country trip and I must say this bike is almost perfect. I really only have 2 minor complaints. One being the key ignition spot and two is the cheap blinkers. No idea why they didn’t use the ones from the Super Tenere. That’s it, absolutely love the bike
Love these videos. The presenters do a great job of making the reviews subjective to themselves which is important. When a reviewer says "The seat height is just way too high" , or "the ergonomics are spot on" and don't make reference to their height, well the review doesn't really hold up. These guys always do a great job of pointing out what does and doesn't work for THEM and why.
I have a '15 FJ 09 and my buddy has this 2019 Tracer 900 BASE Model. We swapped bikes back to back and I prefer the 2019 over my 2015. I'm 6'2" and feel more comfortable on the 2019. Better seat, better riding position, and it's way more stable on the highway. The bike doesn't vibrate as much as the 2015. 2019 is much more refined over the previous generation. 10/10 recommend.
Since a month i got the Tracer 900gt in phantom blue. And im loving this bike! Handeling is good! And its comfy. Especially for the long trips. Indeed the fuel meter isnt helpfull, But you got 2 trip meters, no problem. I am really glad i bought this bike! Greetings from the Netherlands
The GT also comes with the "Fuel consumed" under the odometer. I use this as much or more so than the fuel gauge. It's pretty accurate and provides more peace of mind(to me) than the fuel gauge.
@Csab hi, what is tour length ?
Comfortable? In std trim i have found the seat to be absolutely pathetic.
I often ride 1000km or more in a day.
It's something I feel Yamaha seriously need to be looking at
Ok... As a 2015 TRACER 900 owner, I'll say if this is you're first Tracer, get the GT for those upgrade stuffs.
But if you already have an old Tracer like me and thinking on get new GT, just save the money, you can get heated grip form YAMAHA and is for Tracer, plug in and go. Quick shifter can also add on easily. Suspension upgrade also got lot choice to. Luggage system, whole bunch of great cases bags you can get.
Biggest improve of new Tracer for me is the stability increased by extra the swingarm length. So if you like cruise fast on highway, get the GT :3
Thanks for the info. I plan on purchasing a Tracer 900 soon. My plan was to get a 2015 model because they are the cheapest and not much difference. The 2015 has the same engine as the 2018 GT model? How many miles can you ride on one tank of fuel?
@@mariosavva999 I have a 2015 and usually get 44-48 mpg. The fuel light starts flashing around 160-180 miles and I think I can get close to 40 miles on reserve. I usually fuel up around 180 but max range is probably 200 to maybe 220.
When you compare this to its main competitor, the Versys 1000, that 13k price tag suddenly doesn't look so bad. This bike is an upgrade from a Versys 650, not a direct competitor.
I have a 2015 "Fudge," that I picked up last year for $8,500 new in the box. That janky fuel gauge is by far my biggest gripe! I am consistently getting over 48mpg on mine. It can get higher, but my commute includes a lot of 80MPH freeway riding. Love the FJ!
I just picked up a '15 FJ-09 with only 5k miles for $7k as my Christmas gift to myself. Just put some Givi V37's and a Givi engine guard on her.
Awesome bike, but Yamaha , if you’re listening , update those bloody indicators from ‘89 !!!
The weirdest thing is, that the European bike comes with much prettier indicators.
Ah ok orangelion03! Thank god for EU rules :)
Chris Rudecki I paid extra for the led indicators with riststers included. They are used as running lights then when indicating the orange led are brighter. They accessories indicators are much better looking than the standered ones.
asia got better indicator too .. not that orage lense .. we got the clear lense ..
Chris Rudecki Amen! And what happens to them when the bike falls over? Do they break off?
goo.
Damn you, Zack! What has been seen cannot be unseen.
Can't shake it
Yea, its the goo Tracer leaving traces of goo all over the road, really really really stupid name. BTW Yamaha, naming a bike is FREE!!!!!
LMAO!
Previously known as the fudge goo
One would think that Yamaha would consult someone in the states before branding the fudge, goo, and fuzz
"Tracer ...you won!" I had to repeatedly listen to it three times. Cheers!
Wow wow wow! You put my Q in the video!! Yay! I was the Versys question guy!
I just bought Tracer GT today! I love the different riding modes. Traded in my 2009 FJR1300 and I’m never lookin back. ! A little better upward stance to help the back and shoulders .
The bags are smaller than the FJR so I mounted a Givi tail bag after removing the side handles. The Givi sits a little forward on the seat but I don’t plan on carrying any riders. Also, I have room behind me to strap my small carry on luggage.
What kind of minimum payment am i looking at on one of these? I looked on their website at the financing, did the math, and came up with somewhere in the neighborhood of $400usd per month, but that doesn't sound quite right. Friends of mine with more expensive bikes are like, "no way, it'll be half that."
Nice review of a nice bike - not too keen on that colour scheme but other than that, little to fault it....thanks for posting - TMF
Your reviews aren't too shabby either 😉 love your videos, keep up the good work!
Hello, TMF what are you doing here.
I love that TMF watches and comments on others videos. Solid dude 💪🏽
Hold on TMF!.... What do you mean you don't like the paint scheme!... "Black/ purple is the colour you said you would have over the airfix grey 900GT you were testing!"...old age catching you up I think!... Lol
I have a 16 fudge, that I picked up for 6k used. Replaced the seat, suspension, ti Akra, windscreen, brakes, ktm handguards with mt09 barends, reflashed the Ecu and added quick shifter. Now I need to add cruise control = perfection. All for thousands less than a new goo
I am 5"7' and It fits like a glove just don't think about flat footing it - ride mine every day and LOVE IT.
i plan on getting one of these in the near future. I sat on one a few months back just to see if my feet touched the ground. I was surprised that at 5'9" i could solidly get the balls of both feet on the ground.
I dropped a $20 wind deflector on the top of the stock windscreen and it fixed it for me. Sends the wind over my helmet. Can adjust it to personal preference too.
Hi Zack. Thanks for another awesome commute and all the info on the bike. As soon as the video was finished on got my gear on and went for ride :-)
i'm 5'6 145 lbs and I just bought this bike. Absolutely love it, got a slighthandlebar riser that brouth it 20mm closer and 30mm higher and it made a world of difference. i have to tiptoe. im used to it. im ok with the height as i got this for touring not commuting. get one!
What about the wind protection? I’d like to get one to commute on the motorway (70-90mph) with a passenger. I’m worried about exhaustion from long rides because of the wind pressure.
@@sambyf2445 lots of aftermarket windshields u can buy
Best review I’ve seen on the Tracer, bravo.
Love that dash, buying an MT09 next year and am really hoping the 2019 model has that too.
Another great video Zack!
Nice entertaining review Zack! I do agree is a bit expensive, but a well rounded overall package.
This is what I call a “thorough” demo ride and review!👏👏👏👏👏👏
Having a FJ-09 ‘15, it’s the best all around bike ever made.
I appreciate the low vocal volume so you don't disturb the neighbors in the morning. However, the bike is louder than your voice. And I like the bike a lot.
I own a 16 FJ09. The price difference is actually not bad when you consider the luggage is $900, aftermarket cruise is a few hundred, the heated grips are a little over $200 and then consider the other upgrades of the seat, longer swing arm, the tft display and the easier adjustable wind screen make that difference even closer. What kicks it up is the better adjustable suspension. So yeah the price is right in line.
Oh and yeah the ignition spot sucks but really not the worst thing in the world.
As an all-round bike, this, and the Versys 650/1000 are very hard to beat. They do everything on public roads well: commuting, touring, having fun in the twisties. If your budget only allows one bike,one of these should be on your short list. I have a Versys 1k, same price as the Tracer 900 GT, couldn't be more happy with it. To the extent that I'm getting rid of my car.
what do you think of the vstrom’s?
@@ag096 I had an '07 V-Strom 650 for almost 9 years and 70k miles. Loved every mile on that bike. They're pretty much bullet proof, it never left me stranded. And yes, it's also an excellent all-round bike, with the added bonus of the 19" front wheel that allows for (light) off-roading.
Got the same 2020 tracer in NC for $11500.00. I absolutely love mine. Ride safe.
Sweet Deal!👍
I just sold a 2016 Multistrada 1200S and bought one of these and absolutely love it! Already fitted a full Delkevic exhaust and would take this bike any day over the Multi.
Hihi. Why is the mts not better than tracer gt?
@@reeve668 the Multistrada was a great bike to ride but I had way too many issues with it and sold it after 7 months. The 900GT is so much more reliable.
Hey Zack! Love your vids man
I like the hidden key thing. Someone might pull your key away.
I have a 15 Fudge. I was looking forward to the new updates, but it seems like the bike has the same flaws as mine, especially the fuel gauge. You get standard luggage, but I can add panniers for less than the difference in cost, not real point to upgrading. That said, I love the fudge, those floating wheelies leaving a stoplight satisfies the soul. Also, I respectfully disagree about the Versys, the Tracer's engine is soooo much better than IMO what is a really buzzy Versys.
Zack needs someone to pay him to review every motorcycle like this.
I like bike reviews, but I don't understand the value of a review going in straight lines, through town. Not sure what value that brings. But, I appreciate the information.
Will you commute a Honda VFR 800? 2014 or newer.
You can adjust the windscreen down. Just a hint :)
We need a tutorial on "backing in a bike"! And... please MC Commute a Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen, please!!!
Downshift, then hard front brake, pull in a clutch so that there is still power to the rear but the clutch will slip and bike won't stall and then push the rear brake, don't block it though - do all of that in quick succession and you will get there.
that sounds like I need a few extra appendages... lol
Well, actually, you make use of all for, so we are perfectly fit for backing it in, as if WE WERE MEANT TO RIDE THAT WAY :D . Plus, you only need the left foot b4 entering the turn, which leaves you free to stick it out for some extra cool factor on left hand turns.
it's all done with the clutch actually, you can see MotoGP riders doing with their right foot off the peg (means no rear brake)
Well, I'm guessing you aren't talking from experience, but rather a TV screen. First of all, motoGP riders absolutely do use the rear, both on entry and in the corner (I've reuploaded this great video from Scott Redding that illustrates it nicely: th-cam.com/video/TT_QvMuopAE/w-d-xo.html). And yes, the top of the top are good enough to back it in without touching the rear brake, but that is hardly the way to learn it and hardly the way we will ride. Even guys running in the SM championship I sometimes ride with (I don't claim to be anywhere near their level) rely on rear brake heavily.
Interesting, I didn't know you prefered the Versys 650 to the 1k model. I have a 1k so I'll have to test ride a 650 to see why I wasted my money.lol
These videos are getting better all the time.
Very nice video! I am between a new versys 650 and a used tracer 900 2019 (no gt version unfortunately) I had a lot of motorcycles in the past and currently have a fz6 fazer s2 and need a more upright relax position, I commute every day in a big city and use it for small and big trips in Greece usually two up but also solo, I like to the turns and I don't afraid to put any of my bikes on a dirt road ( even my cbr 1000 rr I used to own) which of this two bikes you would get in my place?
Nothing wrong with a smaller dash. The dash on the Duke 390 looks like a TV.
Great bike. The one I'd buy in this class.
The usual great review.
The thing wrong with a smaller dash for us older dudes is that it's getting hard to read...
For less money, you can buy a 2018 Ninja1000. Add the excellent Kawasaki bags and the price is about the same. 140 hp vs. 115.
@ Lifted_Above
Perhaps, but I think it is an easy bet your body will be happier at the end of the day with the Tracer.
Yeah ergonomics the Tracer wins. Cost, fit and finish, power, N1K.
Wild Biker Bill, in that case, get a Versys 1k rather than the Ninja 1k. In June I rode on my Versys 1k from Miami, FL to Albuquerque, NM in 52 hours, and was completely comfortable.
With regards the comment about a guy selling the bike because of the wind buffering issues, I also sold my NC700X for the same reason, I tried 3 different windshields but no improvement, all that buffering on your helmet becomes really frustrating. It is like a curse on these style of bikes. I don't understand it. Even regular naked bikes like the SV650 are better. You buy these adventure bikes for the comfort and end up with an unsolvable wind fatigue issue. I think it has to do with the fairing design so no matter what screen you use, the fairing will still dump all that wind on you.
Zack, I usually trust your reviews- for some reason you don't like this bike but you embrace the Versys 650LT... is it price driven? I'm between the BMW F900XR, Tracer GT and the Versys 650LT
Since Harley is bringing out a naked V-Twin will Yamaha revive the MT-01 and import to the US? Now that is a Yamaha I would have in my garage.
Which one is better you think? F900xr, Multistrada 950s, Tracer900gt?
18:00 thats where u got me..... thats what I was trying tofind out about the Tracer. Big like!
I have 16K on my XSR900. I am getting this one soon. Been doing longer trips. It's perfect.
Richie,
Also a xsr900 owner here. Don't think this bike will be as snappy as the xsr900 being 500 lbs & has a longer swingarm now to minimize wheelies.
Would be nice to see a favorites & fails video on this tracer 900gt
That bike sounds so freaking nice!!
How do you get that bike to wheely like that? I can't seem to do it without turning TCS off.
Ah, Zackeroo buddy, your rides do my soul good.
Are we getting a new on two wheels episode soon? It feels like months since the last one
Am I the only one that likes the styling of the FJ-09 more than the new tracer? I specifically sought out a new left over 2017 FJ-09 and paid thousands less because I think they look better. I also like the blue color a lot more than all the other options.
The only things I feel like I'm missing out on are cruise control and the quick shifter which I will add later on. Plus I still have the option to upgrade the suspension later on if I feel the need. So far the handling is great for me. I doubt I will be pushing this bike hard enough to need new suspension any time soon.
SOLID review. You cover the bases without all the excess rambling I've seen on other sites. I'm considering coming down in heft from my 2012 Tiger Explorer, but dealers in my area are afraid of test rides due to added mileage on bikes. Since I haven't wrangled a test ride, would I notice an improvement in weight and ease of slow speed maneuvering?
I couldn't agree more about the fuel gauge. I've had my 2017 FJ09 for a little over a year now and think that the first bar disappears when the tank is half empty. I get a little over 50 miles/gallon and just use the trip milage as a more accurate fuel gauge. I do love everything else about the bike!
The GT dash also comes with a resettable fuel consumed feature (located under the Odo reading), so you don't have to rely on the fuel completely. It's pretty accurate.
Could either be the linkage for the fuel level in the tank that creates the sudden drop, or could be bad calibration from the sending unit. That's not the only motorcycle that does this, as I recall other bikes I've owned over the years taking a while to respond to dropping fuel level and then quickly diminishing indicated levels on the meter after that. It's not proportionate to the actual loss of fuel for the first half tank.
It is intentional since the first bar represents the first half of the tank. Motorcycle tanks are pretty angled, getting an accurate reading from a floater is pretty hard to pull off. Yamaha didn't bother with the engineering hassle and have the floater only operating in the bottom half (I have a 2016 Tracer)
But all they'd have to do is calibrate the signal sent to the instruments, regardless of the mechanical action of the float device.
This would require the floater mechanism to cover the full vertical height of the tank. Yamaha took the easy way out, but I appreciate the Tracer being very affordable. My old bike didn't have a fuel gauge at all
I've always wondered why they call this bike a Tracer 900 and not a 800 when the displacement is closer to 800cc....
How do you like it compared to the Africa Twin?
Which is more fun on the road though? :)
Can't wait for the T7 that could potentially be the best all-rounder ever. Good off-road and yet with plenty of legs for freeway riding, and best of all Light Weight! But maybe they could even make a T9??? And fully adjustable suspension?
That is, if they ever make it.
they should've already done a xsr900 scrambler
Did you find that the back of your foot was touching the passenger foot pegs?
The back of my foot is planted in the pax footpegs, I wear size 13 shoes.
@@fwg1961ya I'm a size 10.5 and if I had a passenger. It would not work. It's too bad as this was the bike on top of my list.
They're pretty hard to find right now. I rode over to New york to look at one last weekend. It was actually smaller than i pictured... which is good. For some reason i was picturing it being tall and dirt bikey. I'm 5'9" and i had the balls of my feet on the ground but not flat-footed, which is lower than i expected too. Definitely going to buy one in a month or so. I love the look of it, the features.... and i'll be able to more than a hundred miles without pinching a nerve in my shoulder.
Still good in 2024? Equal yeared MT-09s go for the same price as these do, and the 2021+ models are ~$4k CAD more
I have an FZ-09 and I’m not a fan of the bar tach. Coming from an FZ6R, I love the analog tach. When I saw it light up yellow when you needed to shift, however, I got instantly jealous. I would really like that.
Dont suppose you can get your hands on the new CB1000R? That is one handsome motorcycle.
Ari is 5,10 right???
I see what you did there.
Hahaha
Abhishek Premanand good one
I hear the 2 up with luggage load capacity, will quickly overwhelm the rear shocks abilities. Also, hearing complaints of drivers and pillions foot pegs were placed too close together. If your foot size is a size 10 or above, you're playing footsie quickly. That would be bad if true.
Anyone binge watching to mourn the end of Ari + Zacks vids on this channel?
What now, what happened?
Yes, where did they go?
17:52 & 18:12 🤙🤙
I've been on a Road King for the last 5 years. My next bike will not be a Harley. I'm struggling with which way to go. I'm a big guy at 6'2 265. I need to sit on one of these soon.
Awesome video as always Zach!! I have to ask though, why does seem like your always whispering into your handheld camera?
Do not go off-road with it. I did last week, had to use JB Weld to get out of the woods and just bolted on the new oil pan today. The oil pan is almost legendarily vulnerable on this bike. I've got a protector coming for mine, some people have hit it even on speed bumps.
You guys should do one on the royal Enfield himilayan, very curious to see if it's any good
It isn't.
Tracer 900gt versus the Triumph 800 XR line? Curious as to which is the best bang for the buck. Hint hint.
Nice review of the bike. How do you think it compares to the FJR? This looks like it is more sport than touring
Givi wind shield plus top tips for hand guards proper full machine 👍👋😜
Nice review, Zach! So the Versys 650 > Tracer 900 GT if money is a factor? How does this bike compare to the Versys 1000?
Bike looks good,only those old blinkers on the bike🤦♂️
6'6", and it fits. I did the demo ride, and should be taking delivery next week for my new 2018 Tracer 900 (not GT). I'll be adding 2" bar risers. That's my only planned mod.
I also get the Versys 650 love, but it doesn't have the leg room I need. I wanted one in 2011, but just don't fit. I ended up on a VStrom 650, which is easy to mod for tall folks. (Bar riser, lower pegs, tall touring seat, mad stad bracket)
I just saw, yesterday, my old favorite bike pass me, a 1987 FJ1200. This looks like a modern version of that bike.
How does this compare in power to the old FZ1 ?
The little wheelie off the line would be like my KLR650. The tire just skipping across the pavement.
Zack, how would you compare this to a S1000XR overall in terms of power, ergos (I'm 6'3" with someone who's raced moto for 20+ years knees, ankles, wrists...). I know that there is a fairly big price difference, just curious if you think that the XR is worth the extra $ (and there's also that reliability thing when talking BMW vs Yamaha...). Thanks!
I'm 5ft 6 and Yamaha offer the lower seat option aswell as lust racing lowering kit fitted when you buy so I can get my feet flat on the floor. I'd like to see a comparison with the MV Augusta turismo.
Same complaints that I have about my 2017 FZ-09, the blinkers are aesthetically awful, the fuel gauge read out is even worse on the FZ because you only have 3.5 gallons and it starts flashing and changes the dash to fuel trip with a gallon left, the seat is a plank. The options on this bike are nice to have but do they really make it a $14K bike?
$12,199 MSRP for a 2018 Ninja1000, 140 hp and almost 90 ft-lb torque, 5-gal tank.
Clay, that's true. However, other brand bikes sold in the USA are much less hideous in the turn signal department.
Totally agree with you about the brakes. When your pushing on it’s very noticeable
How's the seat feel? Very cool? Butt numb starts after 1-2 hr?
Can you do cb300r?
Not maybe the direct competitors, but what you would choose between Z1000SX and this Tracer GT bike? As somebody from Instagram already asked, looking for the comfy bike which can do lot of miles, but to be entertaining enough.
Huge salute Zack!
I'd imagine the triple engine could be a bit more engaging and fun to ride.
I did want this bike for Sports Touring .. Even though I like the Triumph Tiger Sport 1050 much better it's not sold in the USA anymore .. They I decided I want to ride places that have gravel roads ect.. so I decided that the Triumph Tiger 800 XCA is the bike for me .. I may keep my FZ-07 for on road trips only ...
what do you think of the seat? I've read poor reviews of it, though that could be the previous model. I note yam's 'comfort' seat is a hideous price....
I think it's great for what it is and they actually made some changes instead of simply throwing panniers and a screen on it.
Looking at purchasing how is it with a passenger. There was a mention of brakes not being up to snuff.Also considering fjr1300 .. price has me leaning towards tracer ..l need some feedback please
So you still prefer the Versys 650 😎; i own a CB500X, if Honda don’t make a new model like a CB650X in close future (2-3 years): i will highly consider to upgrade for a Versys 650; cheers from Montreal!
I've got a Versys 650(2009) and I've ridden a CB500X(2017) for a thousand miles, and I've gotta say that the CB500X is significantly buzzier at speeds over 70mph, especially over 80mph, though they both have the same top speed. The versys is quite a bit larger, it's taller, longer and bulkier. The CB500X doesn't let you switch riding position as much as the Versys does, I was basically stuck with sitting upright on the CB500X, on the Versys I can do everything from an upright seated position to lying down on the tank like a sport bike. The CB500X is more off-road capable, but the Versys is more comfortable on the highway. They're both eminently flickable, agile bikes, and fun to take through twisties though, with perhaps a little bit of an edge to the CB500X for being a little smaller and a little more nimble. I should note that when I returned my rented CB500X, it didn't have any chicken strips left on it(there was 2 inches before I rented it).
Kaerius : thanks for sharing nice informations; do you think it would worth it to swap my CB500X 2017 for a Versys 650 in 2-3 years? Thanks for your opinion & toughts🤗
Who knows how flexible the future T7 will be......
They're probably a bit too alike that I'd say the difference is 100% worth it. The Versys wins on comfort, but it's not by that much. I'd be looking either towards the Tracer 900, which is what I'm planning to upgrade to(probably a non-GT from 2015, which is when they introduced the slipper clutch), or something even more touring oriented. If you want to off-road on an adventure bike, look at the Africa Twin. The problem with giving advice like this is that I don't know key things about you like your preferences, or inseam(how high of a seat you can handle).
Honda Crossrunner maybe?
"I'm not especially tall, 6ft2" **sighs in 5ft10 :(**
Five ten must be nice. I'm five nine and my girlfriend is six one. I sometimes forget and wonder why we get the looks we get..
aluisious height is never an issue unless you try to zigzag in between cars while lanesplitting in heavy traffic at 5 km/h. I dropped a Multistrada because I could only reach the ground with one of my foot.
ttttttttttry harder i am 5'7s
A 5'3 who really like this bike reporting in.
I'm very happy today I'm not over 5' 10". Every other off road vehicle would not be comfortable being any taller.
Zack, don’t know if it was the camera - but the grips seem thin/skinny. Any issues with grip fatigue or the grips generally?
The big wind deflectors make the grips look skinny.
DANG IT I miss my FJ-09! My first and only motorcycle, and now I'm feeling the itch again. I've looked at the options, and I really can't find anything else that meets my criteria like this bike. I can't believe it, but I think I'm going to re-buy the same (albeit upgraded) bike. The only other options that make any sense are the Hayabusa (too heavy, and no storage), and the MT-10 (terrible range). I like to ride far and tear up the twisties when I get there, and this bike (speaking from experience) does both of those things quite well.
EDIT: Also, the Hayabusa has no cruise control, and when you're riding hundreds of miles a day, you kind of want that.
Indicator button is in the wrong place should be below the horn the seat is not so good. Ride modes are great especially A mode in the twisties. For the price, it's a hard bike to beat. Take the screen off if it's so hot.
The 900 is all the bike you need. Forget the GT and the extra $3k. Actually, either the V-Strom 650 or 650 Versys is all the bike you need, for less $$$. And the V-Strom will go off-road better with its 19" front wheel. Why can't all windshields adjust as easily as the Yamahauler?
Thank you for the review!
I rode the Versys, too. I preferred it for me. I think they are two really good bikes.
Is the windscreen on the 2019 Tracer 900 compatible with the 2015-2017 FJ-09? I would love to have that adjustment on the fly on my 2015!!!
How's this tracer gt compares to multistrada 950 in terms of ride feel, ergo, engine performance, electronics & value?