Yamaha MT-07: specifications, pros and cons, compatible accessories
Italy's best-selling naked, and four generations of different codes
Parallel-twin CP2, low weight and a restricted version for an A2 licence: the MT-07 is the motorcycle that most people buy to seriously get started. Since 2014, it has changed four times, and the catalogue follows those dates: handguards, tank stickers and dashboard films have a code for each series.
- In summaryEssential catalogue: protected hands, tank and dashboard preserved.
- Do this straight awayHandguard kit, tank grip stickers, instrument protection.
- AttentionThree handguard kits: 2013-2020, 2021-2024, from 2025.
- SharedThe BHG-094 also fits the MT-09, Tracer and XSR 900.
- BrandsBarkbusters, Eazi-Grip, Kaoko.
Who it is recommended for
It is the right motorcycle if
- You have an A2 licence or are just starting out: a restricted version exists without obvious compromises
- You are under 1.75 metres tall: an 805 mm seat height and 184 kg are among the most accessible figures on the market
- You use the motorcycle in the city and on twisty roads, with the occasional outing
- You want low purchase and running costs, including on the used market
- A basic setup is enough for you: handguards, tank grips and protective films
Look elsewhere if
- You do a lot of motorway riding: without a windscreen, long stages are genuinely tiring
- You need infrequent stops: with 14 litres, the range is short
- Travelling two-up with luggage: there are few dedicated luggage solutions
- Looking for frame sliders, radiator guards or fork protectors: they are not in the catalogue
- Order without checking the registration year: the codes are not interchangeable between the four series
In two words: it is the right motorcycle for learning and everyday use, not for covering miles. If touring is your main use, the Tracer 7 uses the same CP2 with a windscreen and pannier mounts; if you are interested in the same platform with a different look, the XSR 700 is the heritage version.
Specifications
| Engine | Parallel-twin CP2 689 cc, 270-degree crankshaft |
|---|---|
| Power | 73 hp at 8,750 rpm, available in an A2 version |
| Torque | 67 Nm at 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6 gears, chain final drive |
| Chassis | Steel diamond frame, upside-down fork from 2021 |
| Wheels | 17-inch front and rear |
| Weight | 184 kg ready to ride |
| Tank | 14 litres |
| Seat height | 805 mm |
| Generations | 2014, 2018, 2021, 2025 |
Pros and cons
Pros
- Weight and seat height accessible to everyone
- Full-bodied CP2 engine in the mid-range and easy to manage
- Available in an A2 version without obvious compromises
- Among the lowest purchase and running costs in the category
- Handguard kits available for all four series
Cons
- No wind protection: the motorway is tiring
- 14-litre tank, short range
- Stock suspension can be improved on early model years
- Codes divided by generation: the year matters
- Few dedicated luggage solutions
What to fit, in order of priority
On a motorcycle often used by beginners, protecting your hands comes first.
- 1
BHG-094 handguard kit, 2021-2024Covers the MT-07 from 2021 to 2024, MT-09, Tracer, and XSR 900: one kit for several bikes in the family. Bars and shells are chosen separately. - 2
BHG-129 handguard kit, from 2025For the more recent series, with a black structure: the handlebar has changed and the previous kit does not fit. - 3
BHG-068 handguard kit, 2013-2020For earlier model years: it is not interchangeable with the BHG-094; the mounting points are different. - 4
Tank grip stickers, from 2021They improve knee support when braking and protect the paint from zippers. Dedicated versions are also available for 2014-2017, 2018-2020, and from 2025 onward. - 5
Instrument protection, from 2023Laser-cut film for the dashboard: it will be scratched by the first glove placed on it. Also available for 2014-2020 and 2021-2022. - 6
Kaoko mechanical cruise controlFor the MT-07 ABS up to 2017 and MT-09 ABS up to 2018: a ring on the handlebar end that keeps the throttle in position, with no electronics.
Compatibility table
Within the road CP2 family, handlebar-mounted kits carry over, but tank-specific ones do not.
| Accessory | XSR 700 | Tracer 7 and MT-09 | Ténéré 700 |
|---|---|---|---|
| BHG-094 handguard kit | no | yes, MT-09, Tracer, and XSR 900 | no |
| Tank grip stickers | no, different tank | no | no |
| Instrument protection | no, different dashboard | no | no |
| Mechanical cruise control | to be verified | yes, MT-09 ABS up to 2018 | no, its own code |
| Tank bags and soft luggage | yes | yes | yes |
Brands with dedicated accessories
BarkbustersHandguardsThree separate kits: BHG-068 for 2013-2020, BHG-094 for 2021-2024, and BHG-129 from 2025 onward.
Eazi-GripGrips and filmsTank anti-slip stickers and instrument protection, with one code for each of the four series.
KaokoCruise controlTwo codes: one for the MT-07 ABS up to 2017, and one for the Tracer from 2018 without handguards.
Frequently asked questions
Which handguard kit should I get?
The BHG-068 for bikes from 2013 to 2020, the BHG-094 for those from 2021 to 2024, and the BHG-129 from 2025 onward. The kit is only the mounting hardware: bars and shells are chosen separately.
Do the MT-07 accessories fit the XSR 700 and Tracer 7?
The BHG-094 handguard kit is also specified for the MT-09, Tracer, and XSR 900. Tank stickers and instrument protection are not: the tank and dashboard vary from model to model.
What about the Ténéré 700?
No. Although the engine is the same, the Ténéré has a completely different frame, tank, and chassis: none of these codes is specified for it.
Do you have frame sliders or radiator guards?
No, the crash protection parts are no longer in the catalog for this bike. Here you can find handguards, tank grips, dashboard films, and cruise control.
Can you travel on the MT-07?
For medium-length stages, yes, with soft luggage. The limitations are the lack of a windscreen and the 14-liter tank. If you want the same mechanics in a touring format, the Tracer 7 is the answer.