Yamaha MT-10 (2016-2021) Review | Speed, Specs & Prices

MCN rating 4 out of 5 (4/5)

Owners' rating 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)

25 4

Highlights

Superbike handling and MotoGP sound
Affordable alternative to Euro rivals
One of biking’s great engines

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating:	4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Annual servicing cost:	£250
Power:	158 bhp
Seat height:	Medium (32.5 in / 825 mm)
Weight:	Medium (463 lbs / 210 kg)

Prices

New N/A

Used £6,800 - £10,500

View bikes for sale

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes

4 out of 5 (4/5)

The Yamaha MT 10 was Japan’s first proper super naked and still is. Its looks are divisive, but the way it rides on the road is up there with the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory, KTM 1290 Super Duke R and Ducati Streetfighter V4 S.

A 2021 price of £12,502 (some £5,293 less than a standard Streetfighter) also makes it a rival to Suzuki's softer 2021-on GSX-S1000.

Much of its brilliance is squarely down to its magnificent crossplane crank engine that might not have headline-grabbing peak power figures, but delivers monster grunt and sounds just like Rossi’s MotoGP bike at full song.

This version was replaced by the 2022 Yamaha MT-10 after six years of production. The new model retained much of the excellent character of its predecessor but tweaked the styling and added modern touches like a TFT dash.

Related: Yamaha MT-10 SP review

It’s more playful and refined than the likes of the Honda CB1000R, Kawasaki Z1000 and the outgoing Suzuki GSX-S1000, too. With a chassis based heavily on the 2015 R1 it handles sweetly, is smooth around town and comfortable, making it the perfect real-world performance bike. It’s also well-built and completely reliable.

Aside from sprouting a quickshifter in 2018 the MT-10 hasn’t been updated since its 2016 introduction, but it doesn’t need anything to make it better. Even the SP version with its electronic suspension, colour dash and fancy paint isn’t that big a step forward. That means the MT-10 is a lot cheaper than its European rivals and there are some great deals to be had second hand. It’s one of Yamaha’s greats…

2022 Yamaha MT-10 incoming

Yamaha have updated the MT-10 for 2022, making what promises to be the most powerful version yet.

The MT-10 has been a popular fixture in the range, sitting atop the MT tree since its introduction in 2016. And just like the preceding versions, the new bike is based on the R1 and its 998cc inline four.

For 2022 though Yamaha have given the motor a considerable overhaul on its path to being their most gutsy MT unit yet, at 164bhp – up 6bhp on the outgoing model.

The revised engine gets lightweight forged aluminium pistons, offset conrods and direct-plated cylinders, which Yamaha say helps to increase efficiency.

Yamaha have also ditched the titanium conrods of the R1 in favour of steel ones in the MT-10, which they say helps to increase the feeling of torque because of the increase in drivetrain inertia. Steel just happens to be cheaper than titanium, too.

Elsewhere, the fuel injection has been fiddled about with to help boost torque in the midrange (from 4000-8000rpm), while both the intake and exhaust systems have been tuned for more oomph. But not oomph in the seat of your pants, oomph in the depth of your eardrums.

For 2022, Yamaha have equipped the MT-10 with a new airbox that features three intake ducts, all with different lengths and cross sections. Each one produces a different sound with the intake specially tuned to produce what Yamaha claim is a 'sensual roar' at the peak of the midrange.

As if that wasn’t enough, there’s even a pair of 'acoustic amplifier grilles' either side of the tank to aim the induction noise right at your waiting lugholes.

Better still, the MT-10 also gets a new titanium exhaust that has been tuned to emit a deep sound at the lower reaches of the rev range until the intake roar takes over. Needless to say, despite all that sauciness, the whole package is now Euro5 compliant.

Again Yamaha have taken another step on with the MT range’s signature (and at times divisive) looks. As well as the enlarged ducts the MT-10 gets an angry new face, complete with eyes (headlights), eyebrows (daytime running lights) and a nose (fairing parts).

There are a few other little upgrades elsewhere in the bike including a new Brembo radial master cylinder for the front brake, a more comfortable saddle, new throttle electronics, new six-axis IMU, quickshifter as standard plus a 4.2in colour TFT dash derived from the R1 unit.

For now there’s no word from Yamaha on the price but we’d expect them to release that over the coming months before the bike arrives in dealers in around March 2022.

Watch: 2016-2021 Yamaha MT-10 video review

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine

4 out of 5 (4/5)

The MT-10 uses the aluminium beam frame from the 2015 R1 with added flex for feel and comfort. It also has the superbike’s fully adjustable KYB suspension, which has good damping control for fast and slow riding, but the ride quality can be on the harsh side.

Old-generation Bridgestone S20s have decent grip, but they don’t have the performance or plusher ride quality of the latest, greatest sports rubber, including Bridgestone’s own S22.

Fitting better tyres alone would bring the MT-10 straight up to the level of its European super naked rivals in the ride and handling stakes, but even out of the crate it’s still hugely competent and never puts a foot wrong.

It doesn’t pinball from corner to corner, changing direction like disco laser beams, like a KTM 1290 Super Duke R but its rolls into corners accurately and there’s lots of feel for what’s going on beneath you.

Lightly modified R1 brakes are strong and whether it’s the different compound pads used or its less racy Bosch RU ABS system, they actually offer more feel than the R1’s on the road, but it’s still easy to get the lever pulsing under extreme braking, especially on track.

The MT-10 doesn’t have the latest six-axis internal gyro powering its traction control, like the R1 (it only has wheelspeed sensors), but the system works brilliantly and unlike most nannying modern systems the Yamaha lets you have fun – more so than just about any of its rivals.

For general pottering, cruising and short rides the MT-10 is comfortable. There’s lots of legroom and the riding position is spacious, but the seat can get uncomfortable after a few hours.

Engine

Next up: Reliability

5 out of 5 (5/5)

The MT-10 neatly proves you don’t need 200bhp-plus to make a great road bike. We now live in a world of insanely powerful super nakeds like the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S, Kawasaki Z H2 and MV Agusta Brutale 1000RR but you can’t tap into their full potential anywhere other than the track. What you need on the road is grunt and character.

So, Yamaha took the 2015 R1 crossplane crank superbike engine and moved the power lower down the revs, where you can reach it and shortened the gearing by two teeth on the rear for extra spice.

Around 40% of its engine internals were altered and many of the R1’s titanium and magnesium components stripped-out to suit the MT-10’s lower revving nature and keep the overall cost of the bike down.

What’s left is a masterpiece of an engine. It howls, growls and wails like a Yamaha YZR-M1 MotoGP racer at full whack, has the punch of a V4 exiting corners and a power delivery so elastic, an electric motor seems clunky by comparison.

The addition of a quickshifter in 2018 made playing tunes with motor all the more enjoyable. The throttle response is peachy in its 'standard' power setting, but too sharp/soft in its other two modes.

It’s not the most frugal of engines and will only return 40mpg when you take it steady and a lot less if you’re having fun, meaning the fuel light comes on after around 110-120 miles.

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value

4 out of 5 (4/5)

Build quality and paint finishes are very good and aside from minor niggles including the plastic shrouds over the rear light coming loose and some bolt furring, owners’ reviews are nothing but glowing.

Yamaha MT-10 long-term test

During 2016 MCN spent a year with the MT-10. Find out what we liked and disliked here:

The good

The way its gravelly crossplane motor picks up from nowhere. Its free-revving punch jerks your arms straight and lofts the front wheel off crests and bumps like a Japanese Super Duke 1290. Hooray!
It does 164 indicated mph.
It is incredibly easy to ride fast – on track it turns beautifully, dings a peg and then grunts out of corners like a, well, like a super naked version of an R1.
Clear mirrors, a deep seat and a tall, commanding view.

The less good

The MT feels heavier and bulkier – its response slightly duller – than the KTM. Swapping the factory fitment Bridgestone S10s for Metzeler Racetec RRs sharpens it up.
The low-fuel warning comes on at just 90-95 miles. Like the MT-09 the warning itself is very low key – just a flashing LCD bar with no illuminated light on the dash at all – and very missable. There is a fuel gauge but so far it has gone from full to half full to empty in three unhelpful jumps.
One of the push-fit vanes on the tail section went missing when I was speed testing for that to[ speed figure.
The seat is wobbly, as if it isn’t properly located and the clutch on my bike is grabby and judders badly when the engine’s cold.

Related: Yamaha MT-10 long-term test

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

The MT-10 is more expensive than its slightly softer Japanese rivals, but as each year passes it becomes even greater value for money compared to its comparable European super naked competition.

Related: Best super naked motorcycles

It's a rival to the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory, KTM 1290 Super Duke R and Ducati Streetfighter V4 S, among other hyper nakeds.

Twin test: Yamaha MT-10 vs Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory on MCN250

Aprilia’s Tuono V4 1100 Factory is one of the finest super-nakeds money can buy. Blessed with the best of engines, brakes, tyres, electronics, soundtracks and suspension, it’s little wonder the Italian has consistently been our favourite super-naked since it grew from 1000 to 1100 four years ago, mixing undiluted superbike performance with high-barred, cruise-controlled practicality.

Updated for 2019, the Tuono 1100 V4 Factory gets semi-active Öhlins, which, when I rode it at its world launch in April broadened its appeal. It isn’t a big leap in normal conditions, where the new electronic suspension doesn’t feel too different from the old mechanically-adjustable units, but at the far end of the spectrum it automatically softens for bumpy roads and hunkers down for the fast, billiard-smooth Tarmac.

It’s an impressive machine – but so it should be at an eye-watering £16,999. So the big question, back in the real world, is: can you have just as much fun for say, £5200 less? Enter the Yamaha MT-10.

We’ve deliberately chosen the base model MT-10 to demonstrate that you don’t need to spend superbike money to own a fiery super-naked. You could go for the £14,299 MT-10SP, of course, with its semi-active Öhlins (lower spec than the Aprilia’s) and a colour dash, but that takes you closer to Tuono money and you still don’t get the Aprilia’s fearsome Brembos, autoblipper, Pirelli Diablo Super Corsa SPs, lean sensitive ABS, traction control and general all-round sexiness.

The MT-10 has been around for four years now and is basically a naked 2015 R1, powered by the same wailing crossplane crank engine but with its internals tweaked slightly for extra oomph at low-to-midrange revs.

And just to be sure this barking mad naked really does accelerate like a maniac, Yamaha shortened the gearing by adding two extra teeth to the rear sprocket.

Its flexier frame has more road feel and the MT-10 has more basic electronic rider aids, but the R1 genes are still there, loud and proud. On the down side, our test bike’s shiny/matt (shatt?) black paint job is already marking-up too easily and its Transformer-style looks aren’t to everyone’s taste, either. But at least it seems to scare traffic out of the way, as if parting the Red Sea, as we ride through the stickiest parts of the route.

The Yamaha is now Japan’s only true super-naked and is in the same league as the Tuono, BMW S1000RR and 1290 Super Duke. As well as battering your senses with searing speed it spoils you with legroom and is kind to wrists, back and neck – but its seat isn’t the greatest. By the time we reach Stratford, two hours in, ‘derriere degradation’ has set in.

The MCN Verdict

It was never going to be easy to beat, but with its new semi-active suspension Aprilia’s new Tuono V4 1100 Factory has moved even further ahead of its super-naked rivals. Now it floats over the worst bumps the MCN250 has to offer and digs in on the smooth bits. Add-in that gloriously loud and proud V4 plus superbike handling you can actually enjoy on the road without pummelling your joints and it’s hard to fault.

The MT-10 was never going to match that but comes tantalisingly close and is much cheaper. It might not have the same poise, grip, brake performance, spec or build quality, but it all works and every time you crack the throttle that brilliant cross-plane crank mill makes up for any shortcomings.

The Yam’s motor is actually more flexible and characterful at road speed and, hard seat aside, is roomier and more comfy. If you spent a few quid on suspension, rubber and mapping, it’d be better than the MT-10SP, as exciting as the Tuono and you’d still have change to spare.

Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

Some would say its lack of colour dash and lean-sensitive rider aids make the Yamaha MT-10 accessories seem dated, but it’s none the worse for their absence.

You still get R1 brakes, suspension, engine and chassis, plus cruise control, rider modes, traction control, a quickshifter and LED lights. There’s an array of official Yamaha accessories available to make the MT-10 racier (rearsets and racing levers), or more touring focussed (tall screen, luggage and comfort seat).

There's a wide range of aftermarket options out there for the MT-10, including a Yoshimura exhaust system pictured below.

The Alpha-T is available in either a slip-on silencer kit or a partial system, which means ditching the bike’s catalytic converter and pre-silencer collector box. That will free up extra power and save even more weight than by replacing the silencer alone.

Yoshi don’t quote exact power figures because much will depend on the original output of the bike before an exhaust is fitted. But they claim fitting their silencer should add around an extra 1.3bhp at the MT-10’s 11,500rpm peak and boosts torque by 1.3ftlbs. And expect a hike of around 3.8bhp at peak and 2.6ftlb by fitting the three-quarters system that acts as a de-cat.

Yoshi claim a weight saving of 300g by fitting the silencer and a 5kg drop with the stainless three-quarter, or a 5.6kg saving with the titanium version.

In terms of road-legality, the American-made Yoshimura exhausts aren’t tested to European emissions and noise regulations. But they pass the similar American tests and the UK importers say in terms of noise they will be almost identical to exhausts that do pass Euro rules.

Unlike most other manufacturers, who sell road-legal exhausts with removable baffles, Yoshi’s American exhausts come with the baffle included but not fitted so it’s up to the rider to fit it and reduce the noise levels.

Specs
Engine size	998cc
Engine type	Liquid-cooled, 16v, inline four-cylinder.
Frame type	Cast aluminium beam
Fuel capacity	17 litres
Seat height	825mm
Bike weight	210kg
Front suspension	43mm, fully-adjustable KYB forks
Rear suspension	Single rear KYB, fully-adjustable
Front brake	2 x 320mm discs with four-piston radial calipers.
Rear brake	220mm single disc with single-piston caliper.
Front tyre size	120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size	180/55 x 17

Mpg, costs & insurance
Average fuel consumption	42 mpg
Annual road tax	£117
Annual service cost	£250
New price	-
Used price	£6,800 - £10,500
Insurance group	17 of 17 How much to insure?
Warranty term	Two years

Top speed & performance
Max power	158 bhp
Max torque	82 ft-lb
Top speed	160 mph
1/4 mile acceleration	10.84 secs
Tank range	160 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

2016: Model introduced.
2022: New MT-10 arrives.

Other versions

MT-10 SP – Higher spec version with semi-active Öhlins suspension, colour TFT dash and R1M-style paint job.

MT-10 Tourer Edition - Touring version with soft panniers, comfort seat, hand guards, GPS mount and taller screen.

The MT-10 Tourer has a comfier perch, better wind deflection and is easier to operate that the standard MT-10. And the panniers and cruise control are useful features. But calling it a sports-tourer is stretching it – this is a full-on super-naked with a sprinkling of parts to make it easier to live with. Which of course makes it rather appealing.

Check out other Yamaha MT model reviews below:

Owners' reviews for the YAMAHA MT-10 (2016 - 2021)

46 owners have reviewed their YAMAHA MT-10 (2016 - 2021) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your YAMAHA MT-10 (2016 - 2021)

Summary of owners' reviews
Overall rating:	4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Ride quality & brakes:	4.3 out of 5 (4.3/5)
Engine:	4.8 out of 5 (4.8/5)
Reliability & build quality:	4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Value vs rivals:	4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Equipment:	4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Annual servicing cost:	£250

5 out of 5 Buy one

30 September 2024 by Yamahaha

Year: 2018

Phenomenal bike. The only bike I've ever owned that I've thought "I'll never sell this". It just does everything so well. I came from a big bang R1 and this does everything better. Will scratch, tour, everything. Can't think of any bike I would rather have, it is so well rounded. With the Touring Edition, you get top box and panniers, which work well. But then you get on the open road and it goes mental. Perfection.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Ride quality is decent, if slightly harsh at times with standard suspension (even adjusted). Brakes a bit wooden but easily improved with pads.

Engine 5 out of 5

Just the perfect engine. Unreal sound, power, torque. With the quickshifter banging up the gears, you can't beat it. But easy and docile around town.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Had an issue with an ignition coil leading to a missfire, but easy to diagnose and fix myself. All first gens have an o-ring behind the manifolds that *will* eventually perish -normally around 20k miles - and lead to a coolant leak. Bit of a pain for a 10p part but can be done DIY without removing the front wheel or manifold. Later models got an improved design. Otherwise it's well made and always starts.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Averaging 38 UK mpg with a balance of long journeys and hooning. Great value to buy secondhand for what it is. I wouldn't swap it for any other bike (which is unlike me).

Equipment 5 out of 5

Cruise control is an absolute game changer. Has decent enough TC without getting too complicated. TC acts indirectly as wheelie control too.

4 out of 5 Great all round bike

22 July 2024 by MarkoP

Year: 2020

Annual servicing cost: £180

It's a bit of a heavy old Hector, manoeuvring around at walking pace. Otherwise, cannot fault it. Every aspect, weight aside, was excellent

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Great power, torque and noise

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

I had comfy seat, headlight-screen defectors, added pillion grab rails. Considered lower pillion pegs, but they weren't that bad for short journeys (up to an hr or so)

Buying experience: Wigan Yamaha - cheapest new bike in the country. My local dealer, that I have known for years, couldn't get anywhere near the price.

5 out of 5 Simply amazing bike.

09 May 2024 by Simon

Year: 2016

Annual servicing cost: £150

Amazing bike! Faster than we can really use but feels and sounds simply fantastic. I wont sell this one!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

No pillion experience at all. Needs fuel stops more often than I need rest stops. All round practical superbike.

Engine 5 out of 5

Legend. Powerful as I can handle for sure.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

My standard bike is now over 50k kms and still looks semi new! Quality bike thro and thro.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Totally not expensive to run just quite thirsty on fuel. Otherwise just oil and filters, easy.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Standard pads need replacing. Otherwise great.

Buying experience: Bought in 2023 from Alf England in the Midlands. Great value for money fully serviced and new tyres. Great guys.

4 out of 5 THIRSTY.......but worth it🫠👌

06 October 2023 by d99324@gmail.com

Year: 2018

Annual servicing cost: £1,200

If only for pathetic gas mileage, I would rate it 5/5.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Seat is a piece of 💩! "Comfort seat is wat better quality and more comfortable but I would need something better fir an all day ride. Brakes aren't the best, they work and that's about it. Very "wooden" feeling, not powerful bite if you will. Change to EBC DOUBLE-H SINTERED pads make a huge difference!

Engine 5 out of 5

If you've never experienced the Yamaha CP4 in either the R1 or Mt10, it's simply awesome 👌.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Typical Yamaha quality, possibly the best of the big Japanese 4.

Value vs rivals 2 out of 5

The bike got pretty bad gas mileage box stock/no modifications whatsoever. Then you decat and "flash" ecu and it goes from bad to terrible! I REALLY put my hand into it but I get 23-26mpg basically. I could get 30 or so but that might be at 65 in freeway.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Pretty average, the cruise control is a nice touch on a relatively inexpensive bike at the time, released in 2017 here the US.

Buying experience: Bought for a sing from a private party. 1kmi and stole it for $9600. 1st gen mt19 about the best smile fir buck out there. A simple $300 ECU tune TOTALLY transforms these into a new and even better bike!

5 out of 5 Master of Torque (and grins)

30 August 2023 by Mark R

Year: 2017

Annual servicing cost: £100

I've owned my '17 MT-10 for over 5 years; the longest I've ever owned a bike. And I can't seem to let it go. It's a weapon of a bike. The engine is a masterpiece, the torque ferocious, the soundtrack exquisite, and it has been wonderfully reliable. It also represents fantastic value for money compared to the ridiculously priced newer alternatives with tech and power numbers that absolutely nobody except 'The Few' could ever actually use, regardless of whether they'll admit it or not.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Stock brake set-up is suboptimal relative to the weight and power of this bike. Stock pads are garbage, and the master-cylinder is basic. I've made signifcant changes to my front brake set-up and it's demonic now. I have a Brembo 19RCS master cylinder, Hel steel lines, and Brembo SA pads. Great on road and track. You can also use a Nissin master cylinder from the 2CR Yamaha R1 which makes an appreciable improvement to feel, and they can be picked up for around £100 secondhand. The Brembo master was around £360. Suspension is very good, the bike is remarkably stable banked over at high speed.

Engine 5 out of 5

Nothing to say that hasn't been previously. It's an engineering masterpiece.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Faultless. Since the warranty lapsed, I do all servicing and maintenance myself. It's a relatively straightforward bike to work on, and I love maintaining my own bikes. Not a single issue has presented in nearly 18,000 miles in my ownership. I cant fathom the comments regarding corrosion etc. I live and ride in Scotland and, while I don't commute on it, I'm not shy of going for a hoon in the rain (it comes with the territory up here). My bike has seen thousands of wet miles and there is not a spec of corrosion or rust on a single fastener. I do look after my bikes, but I think I've only ever applied a half-arsed coating of ACF50 once in the 5 years I've owned it.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I service it myself so it doesn't cost much. No idea what a dealer will charge nowadays

Equipment 5 out of 5

Absolutely fine. It doesn't have launch control, lean sensitive traction, 27 rider modes, keyless ignition, or cornering ABS . And I don't care. Neither should you. If you want to make it look shit then put a massive touring screen, hand guards, and a top box on it like many seem to do for some reason. Or just buy a Deauville.

Buying experience: Bought it from a dealer in Cambridgeshire. Whatever.

4 out of 5

07 August 2023 by Nevar

Year: 2017

Annual servicing cost: £150

The bike is quick enough. Handles well and makes you smile

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Uprated the brakes to hell

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Never had any problems

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Do all my own services

Equipment 4 out of 5

5 out of 5 This is my ultimate motorcycle

10 July 2023 by Rob C

Year: 2021

Annual servicing cost: £275

Perfect ergonomics for 5’5” bloke! Despite it’s pretences, very easy to set up for carrying luggage etc,

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

For me, super comfy.

Engine 5 out of 5

Monstrous; will happily potter about at 4000rpm, but open the flood gates and be prepared for a real life Matrix experience! Sounds devine and gives the feeling of character provided from my previous Guzzi. Vibrates, gurgles and pops exactly as and when required; Love it

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Had 3 Yams over my motorcycling career; this is certainly as good as previous Yams.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

I am currently achieving 47mpg, which has really impressed me as I was expecting mid to high 30’s. I don’t ride like miss daisy, but I am only 65kg, so perhaps this make the difference. However, I have recently done a weekend away and I only dropped a couple of mpg. Bottom line is, this is a performance machine but is still able to be responsibly thirsty !

Equipment 4 out of 5

I personally couldn’t care less about kit and equipment; it’s all about the riding experience. Cruise control is certainly useful, but if you require riding modes etc, go away and get advanced training etc.

Buying experience: Second hand from Mitchells Motorcycles, Inverness. 3rd bike from the best in Highland.

5 out of 5

12 June 2023 by Pete

Year: 2017

Great all-round road bike. Tour to the alps and then really enjoy the mountain passes.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Jacked up the rear and increased preload and compression on the front so now very agile. Improved braking with Newfren pads.

Engine 5 out of 5

Wheelies!

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Fuel consumption disappointing.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Changed to Pirelli Angel GT2.

Buying experience: Bought from dealer. £10950 list, paid £10300.

4 out of 5 No more horses required.

30 January 2023 by Glenn Leese

Year: 2021

Annual servicing cost: £200

Jerry throttle response. Poor tank range. Awesome engine, inline 4 that sounds between v4 and twin odd at first but addictive when thrashed.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Brakes shocking for rest of quality

Engine 5 out of 5

Power delivery is like being shot out of a cannon with a oil can drummer in tow.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Yamaha second only to honda

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Serviced at home

Equipment 3 out of 5

Standard tyres poor put on the best you can afford. Milage from sticky rubber about 2500 per rear when ridden properly.

Buying experience: Brand new purchase from Appleyards no bother.

4 out of 5 Great bike but THIRSTY!

30 January 2023 by Doug

Year: 2018

Fuel mileage biggest downfall.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Ride quality good, brakes leave something to be desired.

Engine 5 out of 5

THE STAR OF THE SHOW!!!

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

For the money, hard to beat overall quality and my experience with Yamaha reliability has been exceptional over the years.

Value vs rivals 2 out of 5

Value = 4.5, Running costs = 2.0 due to poor fuel mileage.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Cruise Control nice touch on a bike like this.

3 out of 5 MT10 - Close but no Cigar...!

12 May 2022 by Jamie Brown

Year: 2016

Close, but no cigar... The engine is the star of the show. Great fun at first but the shine soon disappeared and I sold it. I bought mine used at bang on 3 yrs old once the 1st owner's PCP expired. I didn't test ride it, sat on one in a dealer and though it felt a great sized bike. I loved the engine, sound and looks of it, but it was let down by a the typical "corner cutting" to keep the bike art under £10k Was enjoyable for a few months but the short-comings soon led me to sell it for an older but, much better in every aspect - BMW S1000R.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Adequate for a naked bike, brakes were "OK" but mushy and lacked any feel. Rear suspension cheap and nasty, felt like it wallowed under hard riding. Standard seat crap - I'm 16St. Had to replcae with a comfort one.

Engine 4 out of 5

Pulls lovely from 3k and over, didn't like being being even slightly laboured under 3k and surprisingly ran out of steam at about 3/4 revs, I expected the rush to continue. Loads of character once you got used to it, but felt me wanting more.

Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

Engine was great, ran well, looked nice in the frame, but I felt the overall feeling was slightly cheap for a Yamaha. A lot of the engine finishings like Oil cooler pipe fittings, bolts etc all looked cheap and old after just 3 years. The back end of the bike looked like they had ran out of money for development and used parts from kids toys to finish it, like the back lights, flimsy plastic "spoilers" near the back seat etc. The rear shock felt like a pogo stick and was clearly the cheapest they could source. Bit of a let down afteer the hype and that monster of an engine.

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

Very thirsty on fuel if you enjoy it and to be honest even if you take it easy. Probably due to zero wind protection.

Equipment 3 out of 5

Basic electronics package, but no quickshiftter standard and annoying, stupid fuel gauge where the first half a tank is one block, so you can't figure how quickly you are using your tank of fuel as you rack up the miles. USELESS headlights, very strange colour of light emitted, like a 50% effective car Xenon headlight, made me avoid the lanes or backroads after dark. Hopefully the newer model rectifies some of this.

Buying experience: FIne, private sale, cleared outstanding PCP costs in 24hrs.

5 out of 5

13 December 2021 by Smike

Year: 2016

Annual servicing cost: £250

Fast, agile and great fun

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Great brakes and handling, with the right tyres (Michelin) a dream to ride

Engine 5 out of 5

Just the best, a great sound, loads of power it just flies.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Some of the trim a bit plastic but overall a great bike, very reliable.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Servicing simple and not expensive

Equipment 5 out of 5

As standard a fab bike, with Michelin tyres and an upgraded exhaust a beast. Recommend the Puig screen, discrete and highly effective

5 out of 5 MT10.... What a buy !!

04 November 2021 by Yam-alan

Year: 2021

Annual servicing cost: £150

The best feature this bike has is unquestionably that Crossplane engine. It pulls like a train and sounds fantastic 👌 its addictive and youll never tire of it. If anybody is thinking of buying an mt10 go and take a run on one and youll see for yourself.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

When you get this bike out on the twisties and fast sweeping bends is when it really thrives , it handles like nothing else I've owned including my Blades Panigales and gsxr1000s. Im planning a 5 day tour next summer so for touring it should be a hoot. Great all round package 👌

Engine 5 out of 5

Its a bit snatchy at low revs but im planning a decat and remap soon to help eradicate that..but its fine otherwise.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Have it 8 months now, put 4k miles on it and no issues at all. Well made bike , feels strong and planted.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Its a little bit thirsty and the petrol gauge isnt the best, you can miss the reserve light flashing but overall the way this bike makes you feel when jump of it more than makes up for it. You cant put a price tag on fun.

Equipment 5 out of 5

For a naked bike its not badly equiped, you get power modes traction control quickshifter cruise control etc but tge Bridgestone s20s are nothing special..i put on Michelin Road 5s and its made the biggest difference. Sharpens things up a bit and gives you more confidence. I also put a givi sports screen on and it works a treat with less buffering from the wind.

Buying experience: Bought from a dealer with no issues.good experience, i paid 12,495 for a new 2021in Ice Flou colours.

5 out of 5 MT10 Brutal and encouraging

22 October 2021 by Kristjan James Lilley

Version: Touring

Year: 2020

Unlike any other motorbike available at the moment the MT10 looks unlike anything else resembling a transformer on steroids. Some may say marmite you either like it or dislike it. I struggle to find anything to dislike about it to be honest. Looks stunning. So much power in either of the three power modes. I guess if anything to dislike when you have the balls of your feet on the pegs your heels hit the rear pegs and I am a size 11. But this is not really a bad feature.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

In mode three the power is so smooth. Mode one is noticeably different. Aggressive and destructive to the back tyre. Brakes feel pretty solid and I didn’t have any issues on some tightening windy roads. Back brake didn’t lock or feel unforgiving. Have not taken a pillion passenger but I could ride for a good 3/4 hours before wanting a break and that wouldn’t be through riding it would just be for me.

Engine 5 out of 5

I may have mentioned it before but an unbelievable amount of power. Seems endless and feels like it would pull a caravan. Some people complain that it drinks fuel but honestly I don’t have that issue. I ride it hard and filled up when others needed fuel on a 9bike trip. Not because I was desperate for it but just because everyone else filled up.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

I have had a few Yamahas over the years and always found them to be good strong reliable bikes. I have only done around 1500 miles on it so far. Everything feels tight and great so far.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I was looking around for a tourer. Struggled to find something I liked as there is a shortage of really nice looking bikes on the market at the moment. I really fancied a Harley CVO Ultra. Went to the Harley but standard unfortunately after 20 mins and no one coming over to me I left. Went to BMW and looked at the GS. Stunning bike with so much technology. Then I drove past the Yamaha dealer and thought I would have a look. Very friendly to the degree where for about 15 mins we just spoke about my history of bikes before what I was looking for. They showed me the MT10 Touring and that was it. Absolute value for money. I didn’t want a particularly cheap motorbike and it wasn’t that that swayed me. It was more about the complete package.

Equipment 4 out of 5

A good range of electrical goodies onboard. Cruise control I never thought I would use but on the M4 it came in handy and has a useful function if you roll the throttle forward it disables it instead of tapping the brake. A colour screen would be nice but not essential. A USB outlet instead of 12v outlet. Easy to go through the modes and easy to operate whilst riding on open roads and on some closed faster roads.

Buying experience: Purchased from a dealer. Easy transaction and great service from a main dealer. I threw some extras on as I can’t stand quiet exhausts or standard bikes so put a full yoshi system on and decat and also a tank protector. £14500

3 out of 5 Unusual package.

25 September 2021 by Arnie.

Year: 2016

I’ve been looking forward to having an mt10 after saving up to get the right money I’ve actually purchased a 2016 11000 miles model, I’ve had various sports and sports tourers bikes in the past and enjoyed them but for some reason the Yamaha mt10, maybe it was the low cost of the mt10, the throttling position has never been that good in A B Std modes. Now I’m no expert but surely you don’t have to spend over a £1000 pounds extra just to get it to run some where near right. I think Yamaha should of had a recall with this problem

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

It is not good for a pillion, pegs are to high. The seat is not ideal.

Engine 2 out of 5

I commented above.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Read as above.

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

Average fuel consumption high.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Handling is very good 😊 Michelin road 4s I would recommend.

Buying experience: A Dealer £7000.

5 out of 5 MT 10's are brilliant

19 July 2021 by Holg8

Version: Mt 10

Year: 2018

Annual servicing cost: £230

My MT 10 is Brilliant ,it goes fast, handles great, sounds awesome & looks fantastic.The seat is comfy even after being out all day, it drinks fuel as much as it needs but who cares when it shifts & sounds good. I nearly swapped it for a Fireblade but i'm glad i didn't .who needs a sports bike when i can have the speed ,handling & more fun with my MT. You don't need a expensive can on as its sounds great with standard ,if you want speed ,great handling, sounds good , comfy riding position & looks great get an MT 10

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Its comfy, fast ,handles & stops great

Engine 5 out of 5

Sounds Awesome & is fast

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

No problems with with my MT at all

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

Mine is pretty standard, got a tail tidy ,sounds great with standard can so why waste money

Buying experience: Got from Padgetts all good

4 out of 5 Yamaha MT10 will put a smile on your face

12 April 2021 by Nige

Year: 2018

Annual servicing cost: £240

The best features of the MT10 are its looks and the engine. Looks are down to personal opinion I know but it really looks like nothing else out there so Stubby and aggressive . But the engine is the master piece from its incredible sound to It’s brute power that just makes the front wheel go skyward with a fistful of throttle. The one down side is the bikes fuel capacity, I get about 136 miles from full to completely empty but I would still recommend anyone to at least test ride one , you won’t regret it.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Before buying I read some reviews saying the brakes could be better, but I found them to be fine . The bikes at its best when your higher in the Rev range on the twisties, it’s so much fun or sat at the front at traffic lights. It’s not great for pillions as the pegs are a bit high , haven’t done really long distance on mine yet but you’d have to stop quiet regularly as mine hits reserve at about 112 miles , if you can put up with that I’m sure it would be fun to tour on as a single rider .

Engine 5 out of 5

The engine is just awesome it will put a smile on your face and it turns heads with the sound it makes . One down side is it’s a bit jurky at slow speeds around town ( don’t let this put you off ) this can be sorted by having it remapped , however it’s not cheap but worth it if you read the reviews.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

I’ve had no issues with reliability at all and the build quality is spot on in my opinion. I clean and polish it after most rides ( the bike that is ) and treat it with ACF50 So it looks awesome in the Black & Blue when the sun shines.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Running cost for bikes in this category must be very similar so I guess the MT10 is no better or worse than its rivals , the MT10 does drink the juice but hey fun ain’t cheap 😁

Equipment 4 out of 5

The Cruise Control is a bonus if your touring and a comfort seat is advisable, the standard head fairing is surprisingly good and looks so much better than the touring screen in my opinion. I’ve fitted Evotech radiator and oil cooler guards to be safe , look good too . One down side is the Tank Range and Fuel gauge, from full to half full is one segment so you think your doing well then all of a sudden your thinking of refuelling as the last few segments start to disappear at a rate of nots . My reserve did 24 miles to empty ( I checked it for peace of mind)

Buying experience: Purchase from a dealer with only 500 miles on clock.

4 out of 5 Maximum Torque 10 out of 10

10 April 2021 by David Wilson

Version: Standard but since upgraded with Arrow decat and end can, power commander, k&n air filter and a Dynotune.

Year: 2018

Annual servicing cost: £200

Fast, nimble, fun and angry. Only downside is the small tank (17l) with a thirsty engine.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

All rounder but definitely comes alive in the twisties and in the track of course.

Engine 5 out of 5

Awesome. Just awesome. Bags of power when you need it but the riding modes mean you can ride relaxed in town/rain, little more active with general riding and when you want to open it up the sport setting is crazy.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

No problems for the price.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Being a newish bike and the fact i have ridden a lot of miles i have entered an average annual price which has included a 1000 and 2000km service. Normal annual service costs around £130

Equipment 5 out of 5

Quickshifter. TCS. I usually run michelins but had no complaints with the standard bridgestones. Changed recently to Pirelli Angel GT2's so we will see how they fayre.

Buying experience: Bought 1 year old from a dealer here in Sweden. £10,000 with new Yamaha original luggage and mount and a sport touring screen. 9000 km on the clock.

5 out of 5 My new Yamaha MT10

09 April 2021 by Paul Taylor

Year: 2020

Annual servicing cost: £200

This review doesnt really reflect how great this bike is. It may not have 5 out of 5 in this survey but the overall picture most definitely is. The bike is just incredible and just so capable. I really love this MT10 and think its a keeper.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Rear shock a little hard but ill live with it as the handling is just so sweet. Brakes are adequate but not up to my previous brembo clad superbikes. I plan to switch the front pads for sintered.

Engine 5 out of 5

Truely stunning engine.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Its still a new bike at 1000 miles but ive found it gets very dirty from rear tyre spray and is very hard to clean being a naked.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Unsure on costs yet but it does drink fuel. This is fine though as its a performance bike.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Comes with more electrics than I need. Traction is a bonus but I really dont need cruise control. Its nice to have a 12v socket. I managed to puncture the rear tyre at 300 miles so swapped the s20 for an s21 and the tyres have been great. Bike is very comfy too.

Buying experience: 11k new from a dealer.

4 out of 5 Do your research, and test ride

14 March 2021 by shift-rider46

Version: Flo with Akrapovic

Year: 2019

Annual servicing cost: £500

The noise particually from the akrapovic exhaust is so addictive. A comfort seat does make the ride a lot more comfortable. In all honesty I have covered 8000 in 12 months on mine and when its been running perfectly its been fantastic. But personnally wouldn't recommend one to a friend, just because I haven't had a trouble free year, I would recommend them buying an MT09 in comparrison they are bomb proof.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

The brakes can be a little vague at times and do not fill you with confidence if applied from faster speeds. On a long steady run it is good, comfy and provided your not thrashing it, pretty good on fuel.

Engine 5 out of 5

The absolute best bit.

Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

Unfortunately I have had a few failures, from sensors failing, switch gear failure, not starting, headlight, traction control failure. Fortunately all has been covered under warranty.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

It can be a little thursty.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Definately recommend the comfort seat and if you ride all year round heated grips and hand guards and a change of slightly less sportier tyres and definately the Akrapovic exhaust, it makes the bike. I have not de-cat mine as I like the noise level as it is and I like to not have a headache, but that is a personnal thing.

Buying experience: My dealership was / has been brilliant throughout despite it being in and out of the workshop so frequently. I paid £9995 for a 2019 with 1950 miles on the clock with all the optional extras I have already mensioned.

5 out of 5

27 February 2021 by Sinkyv6@sky.com

Version: MT-10

Year: 2020

Best all-round bike I've owned. happy to be a sports back. happy to be a tourer.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Do the job. Front brakes could do with more feel

Engine 5 out of 5

best part of the bike

Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

the plastics are flimsy in places and paper/feel cheap compared to other bikes, but they do the job

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

it likes a drink

Equipment 5 out of 5

Has everything you could want

Buying experience: Brilliant dealer. Use them for multiple uses and will continue to do so

5 out of 5

05 February 2021 by Jason Aymes

Version: Ice Fluro

Year: 2019

Annual servicing cost: £400

Excellent handling and excellence. In sports mode of mode 1 as yamaha has it, pinning back the throttle, caused the bike to try to put itself from your grip at it accelerates. the arrangement of buttons for the lights, cruse control, indicators and horn may be ok for small oriental hands but they are not always as intuitively placed as you might hope

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Although the breaks have been said to be an issue, I so far haven't been alarmed at the bikes stopping distance. In terms of ride time between stops, I once took it more that 100 miles to wales with out a stop. That was a mistake as at the end of the journey I had started to cramp. generally on a summers day, I would stay stop about every hour. in winter, well I avoid winter cold as I find 20min with out a stop is too cold.

Engine 5 out of 5

Engine performance for me around country roads and through small towns, where I tend to be in lower rev range is more than I need. but on the occasion I have taken it on a longer dual carriageway trip, top end isn't always a quick as perhaps other bikes

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

I have never had a noticeable problem with the bikes performance, and there is no corrosion, though it does live in a garage, firmly chained to a ground anchor. although I am waiting to take it to the dealer under a STOP SWITCH recall.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Approximately service and a tyre of two

Equipment 4 out of 5

As standard its missing a decent integrated tracker and heated grips but other wise it has most you'd need, But I did up graded the exhaust, added heated grip, the wind deflectors (avoid the full screen its uglier than some think the bike looks, make the bike look like a 1950's police bike) and some crash protection.

Buying experience: purchase new from Crescent Yamaha Verwood on an excellent deal, they gave looked after me well ever since.

5 out of 5 Fluorescent MT Tourer dp

08 January 2021 by Pricey

Version: Touring Fluro

Year: 2016

Fantastic all round machine

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Great brakes and the ride is sublime not sure about a pillion but it is .. so bloody fast !! I heard someone has had three R1’s amongst others and decided to buy something sensible and upright so decided on an MT - 10. He thinks he has more chance of losing his licence now than with an R1 !!

Engine 5 out of 5

Very versatile as a tourer or as the quickest away from the traffic lights !

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Seems great paint quality and the fittings have held up well for 4 years of age !!

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Services are cheap in my opinion

Equipment 5 out of 5

Cruise control, rider modes, traction control and Quick shifter are all good investments as is the heated grips and as mine is the tourer I would recommend this version as it’s so much easier to store your crash helmets in the rear upper luggage box (see how I missed the word topbox!! 😂) The Led lights are fantastic, it’s very tame for such a pedigree machine !! Pilot 4’s are absolutely brilliant ! I also have the full Akropovic exhaust with cat delete and I can say it’s definitely an angry machine now ! But so much fun !!! I have swapped the levers for Gilles as I have the crash bungs and the rear sets are also full on Gilles meu2’s so fully adjustable!! It’s such an amazing bike I would buy another ! My father recommended this as he has a black version and loves it so much so he bought an MT 09 sp to also play on !!

Buying experience: My bike was privately advertised and I paid the full amount as I wanted that colour and spec with miles !

5 out of 5 MT ten out of ten!

07 August 2020 by Rob Smith

Version: Blue + akrapovic and de cat +remap

Year: 2017

Fun fun fun! Mild mannered if you wish but if you don’t she will oblige! Proper hilarious, if you have never wheelied a bike off the power then you will with this. Standard sound of crossplane is good enough but decatted and with Akrapovic it’s addictive. Brakes nowhere near as bad as some journos would have you believe either. Brembo pads is inexpensive “fix” if you feel they need fixing. Marmite looks but I’m in the love camp clearly.Handling very good too. Range between fill ups a bit pants(around 100-120 miles) but you’ll need the break to catch your breath. Bit snatchy in sportiest engine mode but a £300 remap finds another 12bhp (or thereabouts) and smooths out the throttle response to extent I just leave it in that mode. Not a track bike but round Cadwell it’s a proper hoot if your not chasing lap times.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Can be a bit crashy over bumpy roads and even after professional set up it’s still not the best. Probably it’s weakest feature. SP may solve this but I love the blue colour even over the SP model. Had the odd pillion but rear pegs very high and you will make no friends after taking them for a spin! I find it very comfortable and happy with standard seat but some complain it’s too hard. Comfort seat too expensive and issue with it getting tatty too soon.

Engine 5 out of 5

Does the lot whilst sounding amazing. Full of power and useable torque. Better than R1 for use ability on road, just don’t expect it to keep with one on track or long straights.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Never missed a beat. Quality paint, No corrosion yet, nothing to complain about here

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Due 3rd service but had no probs, despite all wheelies chain still good and only needs the odd adjustment. Great value to buy in my view, so much better than anything similar for the price. Bit thirsty is only negative.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Cruise control, engine modes, traction settings and quickshifter(up only) means it’s good but not the best. Dash is just ok( SP is very good)

Buying experience: Local Yamaha dealer (Fiveways in Hull) were very good. Have no complaints at all . Bought new on PCP I think it was about £10;400 . PCP ended but I paid balance and kept it. Not one other bike I would rather have at moment without paying substantially more money. Updated model eagerly awaited. Hope Yamaha don’t ruin it by chasing power or track ability!

5 out of 5 If Thor rode a bike, it would be an angry black MT-10

03 May 2020 by Andrew Walker

Version: Touring

Year: 2017

The first test ride scared me. I then tried the KTM SuperDuke 1290 and Honda CB1000R and BMW S1000R. However, it just clicked with a second test-ride, and I bought. Very happy - no regrets. I love it to bits, and hopefully will never sell. It does everything you ask of it, and does it well. I ordered the Touring Edition in 2018 in black - looks amazing. Used for commuting, day trips and week long touring. Did 700 miles one day with no aches. Could sit at 170kph on German autobahns between petrol stations. I am considering getting ECU flashed.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Great on smooth flowing roads; default settings can feel hard on rougher roads. I'll play with the suspension settings to see if that helps. I try to use the brakes as little as possible, they (I only use the front) don't feel the best (compared to previous Fireblade and S1000XR) but I've never had a problem. I will probably change the front brake pads to (road not track) Brembo SA ones.

Engine 5 out of 5

The power. The noise. It's like simultaneous thunder and an earthquake. A T-Rex scream at you. How you feel when your friends describe what they hear when out riding together. If you have a pulse, you need one of these in your life.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Over 2 years and no problems except a flat battery after a 4 month non-riding holiday. Seat is all day comfy. Right hand heated grip stopped working at 16k km, fixed during service. Cruise control stopped working, fixed during 16k km service - rear brake wasn't completely disengaging; WD40 fixed it.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

You're buying a Hyper Naked, so don't expect Honda CB500 / Ford Focus costs. It's a 160hp monster. Add petrol and enjoy. You cannot put a price on the smiles and screams of joy you experience.

Equipment 4 out of 5

BMW and KTM have both had up and down quick shifters out for years; so why only an up QS with the MT-10? Sometimes works brilliantly, other times it bangs in. Always smoother with the clutch, but from medium-high revs, the word is Quick. Hold the power on and go go go. Screen, heated grips, cruise control, comfort seat, side panniers (including water-proof inner bags) and top box (not sure it's recommended but works okay even 2 up) all good. 12v powers my handle bar mounted phone for satnav. 17k km - on Continental RoadAttack 3 tyres never had a problem. I'm unsure whether the hand-guards do anything, and I'll never use their satnav mount - might remove both of these one day.

Buying experience: Bought the 2017 Touring Edition in Spring 2018 from a main dealer; saved 1k over the 2018 bike (eg Touring extras were free). Happy days.

5 out of 5 MT10 is a great all rounder

26 April 2020 by Barry Martin

Year: 2016

Annual servicing cost: £250

Good:Exciting to ride, fast, makes me smile everytime I ride it. Bad:tank range

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

I commute every day, sunday blasts and few uk tours a year. Also took on a track day, awesome fun against sports bikes.

Engine 5 out of 5

Nothing keeps up with me away from the lights. Sounds great at full chat. Clutch is snatchy while the engine warms up.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Well built but some components built to a budget. Never let me down and maintenance has just been services, tyres and a new chain after 20,000 miles.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

mpg is not great

Equipment 4 out of 5

Added heated grips, touring screen and a tail tidy when new from the dealer. Heated grips and screen make riding in winter more bearable. Tail tidy looks good but I get covered in muck when riding in the rain.

Buying experience: Bought from local Yamaha dealer and very pleased with them for buying and servicing.

4 out of 5 MT-10 design flaws

25 April 2020 by Boonster

Year: 2019

I think this is an awesome bike,the torque is wicked,BUT there are a few design flaws,the 2 eyebrows as i call them over the rear light are plastic and very easy to break,the clutch cable runs over yhe ignition key making it very difficult to het the key out,and the mirror position is terrible,all you get is a very good look at your

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Seat gets a little bum numbing after about an hour or so but not to bad,tank is a little small only 17 ltrs.rear tire is not lasting long and im a very careful and easy rider,brake pads dont last and need upgrading to sintered.

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Equipment 3 out of 5

Poor tires

Buying experience: Dealer from new,tag was £11,799,i i got it knocked down to £10,999,which was good as i said i would go elsewhere unless i got a good deal.CMC Cannock.

5 out of 5 Makes my FJ-09 feel like a toy.

30 May 2019 by Dylan

Year: 2018

The best things about this bike: Quickshifter: Up until now, I've never been able to shift while in a wheelie. Now, I can bang from 1st through 4th no problem with the front end sky high. Quite a fun experience; not to mention how smooth it is when using the QS in turns. Torque: Amazing amount of torque, it just zips by cars, very confidence inspiring, and feels like it will rip your arms off. Riding position: This is an upright bike, with comfy leg room, and is about as upright as any bike I've ridden- I've done plenty of days with 250+ miles, and no back issues. Steering dampener: This makes the bike feel very planted and almost magnetically glued to the road at high speeds. Suspension: I find the suspension to be very firm, excellent for highly aggressive riding/braking on smooth roads. Worst: The tail indicators are falling off, suspension can be very jolting over bumpy roads, and the bike has very poor fuel mileage- averages around 30 mpg with my riding style.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

This bike craves smooth, twisty roads that allow faster (50+ mph) turns. In this environment, the bike thrives, when the RPM's are between 6k-11k; the bike just sounds incredible.

Engine 5 out of 5

It's a torque monster, and is really effortless when it comes to overtaking cars, and blasting out of turns.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

So far, I have a few minor rust spots, on an exhaust bolt, and on the bar ends where the allen key fits in; due to having taken these off, and scraped some of the paint, then leaving the bike outside a few nights. Otherwise, the bike has been completely reliable.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

The gas is the major running cost for this bike; I can easily spend $200/month on fuel, and in addition, it really chews up tires if you ride it hard. I'll replace tires every 1.5- 2 months with heavy riding, so costs can easily be $400/month between tires and fuel.

Equipment 5 out of 5

I think the steering dampener might be the best value-add.

5 out of 5 Got my mojo back

26 January 2019 by Mike

Year: 2018

Annual servicing cost: £1

Some folks are concerned about fuel economy but I didn’t buy this bike for that and if it is a concern then look elsewhere

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

The best bit

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

So far so good but to be fair it’s dry miles only for me

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Not had a service yet, less than 12 months owned and old

Equipment 5 out of 5

Cruise control is nice on longer runs

Buying experience: Dealer ex demo 800 miles in, £9995

5 out of 5 Comfy, fast and a great sountrack

21 August 2018 by ianzz

Year: 2016

An absolutely lovely thing to ride, comfy, fast, and great soundtrack.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Forks faultless, rear shock plus 3 clicks on rebound and compression, and it's fine. Obviously budget shock, but works ok. Standard pads are wooden and overheat, Brembo pads sort that, no racing brakes, but more than good enough for the road.

Engine 5 out of 5

An absolute peach, I love it. I test rode everything and this got the nod, don't have to thrash it, and that noise at 7000rpm, magic! It's a torque monster, and the wheelies, oh yes, my speed triple, the front never left the ground, this is the opposite, ah - the joy. Wired ex up valve open and cut can in half, wonderful, tried a de-cat, way too loud on this engine, I like to sneak about, I can hear it now. I had re-flashed to 17 map, old B mode was just a little too snatchy, great now.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

All good so far, at 7000 miles.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Getting 40 mpg average, and I don't hang about, speed triple used to do 33/35 mpg!

Equipment 5 out of 5

Great, I even enjoy the cruise control, didn't think i would like it, any boring road and it's on.

Buying experience: I bought it second hand at 1500 miles, old owner couldn't cope with it.

3 out of 5 Not quite what it could be

17 July 2018 by Alex

Year: 2018

The bike did not live up to the hype for me. If you're looking for a bike to ride to a track day in relative comfort then this could be worth considering. You could just buy a proper sports bike though? If you want something like a modern usable sportsbike that is comfortable look else where. It is fast, handles well, has good brakes, good ground clearance. It is not very comfortable, the suspension is hard on British roads if you don't have the SP, the wind blast gets annoying at speed after a short while, and the throttle response in A and B mode in jerky and C mode is delayed. This bike is not the well-rounded product I expected, I think it was over hyped. I think it is an injustice to compare it to the Triumph Speed Triple. The Triumph is a much more fun, pure, simple bike to ride in my opinion, the throttle just ruined the Yamaha experience for me.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

It is firm, an hour with the standard seat and with no screen is too long for me but i am 6,5" tall.

Engine 4 out of 5

If the throttle response was better it would be a 5. It feels like an electric motor that always has the power when and where you need it, it's just the rest of the package makes it hard to enjoy it.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Loads of tech on it, but some of it does not seem to work together that well, at times the quick shifter and TC got confused and left me with a grunt of power, or missing chunk of drive when I did not want it. The finish is good, better than most European but it's not Honda good.

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

For me, you need to buy the touring model to get the screen and comfortable seat, but then pay extra for the top box and heated grips, and the electronic suspension is a worth while upgrade to make it more comfortable, this means the ideal model would set you back 15000+ which is a lot, but less than a KTM.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Loads of tech, I guess down quick shifter would be nice, I would have less and have a triumph throttle calibration.

5 out of 5 Torquey fun

05 May 2018 by Keall

Version: Basic Blue

Year: 2016

Annual servicing cost: £300

When unleased it's a beast that can power wheelie at 140 quite easily

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Never had someone on the back but one up it is a great handling bike, rear suspension has been softened a bit to give tthe power somewhere to go and keep the front end down. A great fun bike but can have moments bordering fear as it pushes on and on.

Engine 5 out of 5

Had the ecu flashed to turn off the fuel cut on decelleration, raise rpm limiter by 200, removed 155mph limit (now reaches 171mph), dropped fan temp to 95, tuned maps for decat titanium pipe. 161bhp at rear wheel.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Good quality though upgraded the brake pads, levers,front master and brake lines. Lowered bars and fitted an R6 throttle with less rotation.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Changing oil, filters and maintaining myself. 6k service quotes are high as Yamaha includes checking plugs.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Changed mirrors as a bit short. Traction control is a mixed blessing, can save a slide but can whip you near highside if you dont expect it

Buying experience: bought new for 10k, bargain!

5 out of 5 Jizz machine

12 March 2018 by Kevin Paterson

Year: 2017

Don't believe the poor economy stories, she's good for 120 miles on 7 litres 👍 fast, sounds insane, comfy-ish, only gripe so far is the positioning of the indicator switch though that could be down to being freezing cold and soaking wet numbing my hands.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Brakes are good, ride quality is decent,

Engine 5 out of 5

Absolute unit. Smooth as silk, sounds great, nicely finished and the power is everywhere.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Can't comment but it's a Yamaha.. not likely that anything a going to break if you don't mess with it.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

No idea on service costs, probably around the £160 mark inline with most other manufacturers.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Got mine with a quick shifter, scorpion rp1-gp can, full luggage rack, tank bag lock ring. Yamaha ought to to fitting headlight guards as standard however as a replacement assembly is currently £768 + labour.

Buying experience: Dealer bought, can't complain have been using them for years.

4 out of 5 Amazing Bike

16 August 2017 by Xara

Year: 2016

Annual servicing cost: £150

Great Bike, the worst part of it is the fuel consumption and passenger seat.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Great Dinamics and Good Brakes

Engine 5 out of 5

Amazing Engine the Best of the Motorcycle

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

Enough

5 out of 5 Awesome bike just what the doctor ordered

23 April 2017 by lee

Year: 2016

comfortable and fast want to know more about this bike and talk to people who have one to get real feedbacks or questions, it's worth looking on facebook at some group pages, such as MT 10 UK Owners Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/1651524611841227/

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

as good as they get

Engine 5 out of 5

big bang wallop

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

its Yamaha

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

very thirsty

Equipment 5 out of 5

all goodies cost money,

Buying experience: glad I purchase last year with the £9.999 price tag

5 out of 5 i just love this machine.....

25 December 2016 by Rico

Year: 2016

Annual servicing cost: £150

Awesome bike

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Brakes are awesome. Not sure why people think they are vague. Real world stoppers on wet roads.

Engine 5 out of 5

Sounds like a mini F1 engine. The cross plane at tickover is eccentrically beautiful.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

3500 miles and holding up well despite being put away wet and ridden hard.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Tank range on this beauty is 110. I guess you could get more but warp drive is so awesome it's worth the extra stops.

Equipment 5 out of 5

All good especially the dc socket in fairing. Like most modern bikes I had to buy mirror extenders to avoid looking at my elbows instead of the rapidly receding traffic.

Buying experience: Dealer purchased. 7th new bike from alpha in Leigh on sea. Exemplary as always.

4 out of 5 Fun for 75 miles!

09 December 2016 by FrottleFreak

Year: 2016

Annual servicing cost: £150

Very fun bike, gets a lot of attention wherever it goes. Best purchase made for it was a decat pipe. Just let down by fuel tank rage.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

It's pro wheelie, and anti licence! It'll easily keep up with a 2016 R1 and GSXR1000 when you're throttle happy!

Engine 5 out of 5

Torque upon torque upon torque!

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Never had an issue with reliability (as expected on a brand new Yamaha).

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

VERY poor miles to a tank... don't believe the hype of 140+ to a tank, that may be possible if you were in 6th gear everywhere. Realistically, standard day to day trips I get about 75 miles before the reserve light comes on.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Definitely recommend getting a decat pipe if you want the bike to sound as mad as it looks. Comes with Bridgestone Battlax tyres standard which is my personal preference as the best all round/all weather tyre.

Buying experience: Bought from Lamba Yamaha Carshalton. Got a good deal with them, and kept me updated throughout the whole waiting process (pre-ordered it).

5 out of 5 Torque monster.

03 December 2016 by Sirtomsalot

Version: FZ10

Year: 2016

This bike is nuts. Insurance cost for me is very low 23yo male no house not married 145/mo compared to 280 for super Duke and slightly less on BMW S1000r. Engine sounds ridiculous. Bike is very restricted from the factory but simple to switch that. Gas mileage is horrible at 26.6 MPG average at 1600 miles so far. It's a bike that has a lot of character at a ridiculous price. Pros Wheelies Sound Value Insurance cost Yamaha running cost (guessing) Front brake Very capable and versatile bike Wind protection is actually VERY good for class Wheelies way more doubled up Headlights are superb Cons Rear brake Horrid mileage (100 mile range) "Caged" restricted feel on FZ10 model (ecu flash changes this) Engine braking is hard but you get used to it stock seat is HORRIBLY uncomfortable Very hard on off throttle Wheelies way more doubled up (can be a bad thing)

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Rear brake feels poor and ineffective alone front brake is great. Choppy throttle and very hard on off feel with stock engine braking but once you get used to it it's okay. Hard to be smooth but rip on the throttle 1-3rd and wheelie.

Engine 4 out of 5

Awesome midrange nice high end. Low end feels a bit "caged" will have to flash ecu and see the changes. Hard pulls on the throttle lift the front wheel hard but if you are under or over the "sweet spot" not much happens. Crossplane sounds ridiculous.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

High quality so far still only 1600 miles.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Much less expensive than competitors not known running cost yet.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Quickshifter is standard next year but that is 100% must accessory. makes the bike absolutely monsterous. Cruise control isn't very needed as you won't be using this bike for long trips (26.6mpg currently averaging)

Buying experience: Bought through local dealer not a great experience but oh well.

3 out of 5 It`s the opposite of pretty! Goes well, not well enough to challenge the top Supernakeds

19 November 2016 by Ricky

Year: 2016

Ok but let down by cheap suspension and brakes.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Ride is too soft brakes are weak at best with 1990 feel about them radials really!

Engine 4 out of 5

Lacking low down grunt compared to the rivals in the class, and yes you will get left behind from the off with a Duke or an Ape in front of you.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Yamaha always reliable

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 4 out of 5

5 out of 5 MT-10 is more fun than my old BMW S1000rr

24 September 2016 by Glyn Griffiths

Year: 2016

Always been a Super bike owner up until now, sold my BMW S1000RR and bought an MT10 had my reservations when I ordered the bike having not even ridden one, but i took the plunge. I've now covered almost 2000 miles on it and it's brilliant, it's comfortable, easy to ride, handled well and fast enough. Makes me smile every time!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

5 out of 5

12 August 2016 by BadBob

Year: 2016

Stunning bike, does everything it is supposed to and more, awesome ride, would strongly recommend test riding, superb power delivery, hard to keep the front wheel down, should save a few quid on front tyres!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Awesome power delivery, hard to keep the front wheel down!

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

5 out of 5

04 August 2016 by Val

Year: 2016

The best road bike ever. It looks ugly, but as a bike is the best bike I have ridden. This bike is better then dedicated sports bikes like S1000RR for example. Not sure who has tested the brakes in the review, but MT10 has very strong brakes. Way stronger then you will ever need. And very progressive with excellent feel. About MT10 not been sharp and not having "pinball" accuracy - seriously what other bike you compare to it? Because when I ride MT10 it is the sharpest bike I have ever rode. Much sharper then BMWS1000RR for example. You can change direction any time, when in the bend left or right and it just goes there. Again my abilities are way off what that bike can do. The bike feels so light on slow speed on a parking lot I have lost balance and recovered push bike style - something you can't do on many bikes. The only drawback is the wooden seat. Note about the seat. It actually fits somehow the overall bike. It is hard but that is good, because with this bike and this strong brakes and this firm suspension, and this powerful engine, and the speeds you can do with, actually you need this hard seat to be always in control and not slide around because of various g forces. The truth is MT10 is a hardcore sport bike that needs to be ridden hard and needs this seat. I have been two hours on it and now my bum is a little sore and hurts. But I am still smiling.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

obviously the mpg is not 50, but this is hardcore sport bike so its expected

Equipment 5 out of 5

5 out of 5 A bit of everything rolled into one!

07 July 2016 by Coco5940

Year: 2016

Annual servicing cost: £120

Excellent everywhere for the money... and that engine!!!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Heard the brakes were vague and I've had that issue on other yams, changing the pads and lines solves that. With the MT-10, the brakes are fine with no fade, maybe it's hit and miss but I haven't bedded these in properly.

Engine 5 out of 5

This engine is a peach, it produces power very similar to the 2012 R1 I had, loads of grunt exactly where you need it, you don't need to rev hard to chase the power. The sound is exquisite and unique.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Decent quality parts, better finishes on items like the shock when compared to the MT-09. Standard seat covering looks a little cheap but this is easily changed with the comfort option

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

First service used to be parts only (oil and filter) but is now fully charged. Subsequent services are about £180.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Pretty much everything you need for the price, loads of optional extras available. The air con seems a bit of a waste though!

Buying experience: Dealer was excellent and accommodating (Damerell's near Newquay), kept me informed the whole way.

4 out of 5 Great bike but far from perfect

21 June 2016 by igszz

Year: 2016

Amazing street tuned engine and very agile let down by vague brakes and laggy ride by wire. Not as good as the press hype!

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Not peachy

Engine 5 out of 5

Feels like a twin, triple and four rolled into one.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Usual Yamaha quality

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

5 out of 5 stonking bike

18 June 2016 by mt10

Year: 2016

stunning bike

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

standard seat ok, comfort seat better. Fully adjustable suspension

Engine 5 out of 5

staggering, so smooth and powerful

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

fabulous engine, slipper clutch. Good plastics

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

600 mile first service is £149 at my dealer

Equipment 5 out of 5

pretty good, dash excellent, all the other standard bits fine, extras as standard power point and cruise control.

Buying experience: excellent at yam premier dealer

5 out of 5 Best bike so far

04 June 2016 by Mattias Bostrom

Year: 2016

Would have given seven if it was possible. I race a BMW S1000RR and I think I could beat my PBs at some tracks with this one right out of the box. The engine is unbelievable, it got power everywhere. Picked it up yesterday afternoon and have already 930km on the odo, and my bum is alright...

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Awesome

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 5 out of 5

Buying experience: Picked it up at Yamaha center in Umea. Got the best deal and was treated like King.