YAMAHA MT-01 (2005 - 2012) Review

Year: 2005

Annual servicing cost: £100

Superior quality. Legroom is bit tight. Vibration is massive.

Year: 2011

Annual servicing cost: £120

A very different kind of Bike, not everyone’s cup tea, but I like my tea strong with some taste, and this machine is exactly that, good taste! It’s taken a dozen good days to get the hang of the beast, however if you allow time and respect what it can do, you will have a massive smile 😊 every time you go out on her! Quality of build is very good, well done Yamaha 👍🏻 It looks big and bulky, its not! It moves with ease and when you are confident on her, you can flip it about and have lots of controlled fun, and the right type of excitement!! Lovely Bike just different, a bit like me.

Buying experience: Private

Version: Stage 1

Year: 2006

Probably the best put together V-Twin ever. Quality components abound; R1 brakes & swing arm.

Buying experience: Private purchase

Year: 2007

Annual servicing cost: £60

this is a great v twin muscle bike, it handles and stops well,much better than it has right to . compared to big bikes of the 80s and 90s its a race rep. it is not my only bike and does'nt make a good winter hack but its a great summer bruiser! it does'nt need a fairing riding position is great seat comfy, for one. lots of charm. i'am 56 years old 5f 9. and 17 stone.other bikes fjr1300, triumph america 900, tomos moped! the triumph is redundant now I have the mt but the fjr is a keeper. I have ridden and owned all types of bikes over 40 years and like all bikes. this is not a great allrounder but is a good fun bike, its almost alive like riding a kodo monster. and would recommend one, its a classic. suits me better than a big cruiser.

Buying experience: trade sale dealer part x. not prepped but had safety check, so good price. it had fsh and low miles so all good. could'nt test ride. but started up and sounded fine oil looked clean so took a chance. blade trade sale swindon, very good and helpful salesman jamie. cash buyer.

Year: 2005

Annual servicing cost: £30

best feature is obviously its looks and that engine, medium height,er no, im medium and am on my tip toes and if you're not a confident rider can be a little daunting, despite its size i can easily burn out toe protectors so yes it handles.

Buying experience: dealership priced at 6,500

Year: 2005

3 years now and will never sell this bike.It's my only vehicle i own and it can do anything good or perfect. It is a bike you live to ride,to go fast, to accelerate hard at empty city streets or run in tight corners like you ride a big bulldoza dragon. It is unique, the sound is just brilliant (stage 1 kit). This machine has no age, no taboo, no must or should. It is the mt 01 and there's no reason to compare it with some other bike.It's an obsession, a real love. Each mile on it offers you a big smile. It just communicates with your inner world. Fantastic!

Version: unusual twin seat stage three conversion

Year: 2005

Annual servicing cost: £300

nothing has gone wrong in ten years of ownership, not even a light bulb. its not a fast bike but its comfy and it sounds and looks awesome. do you really need 200 bhp when this thing gives everyone a chance to see and hear thor ride by.

Buying experience: ten years ago its hard to remember but whatever happened, I've kept the bike so something good must have happened

I have owned a 57 plate MT01 for 2 years now. Bored with the linear power delivery of my Triumph Tiger 800Xc I wanted something different. I got it ! Best bike I have ever owned. The MT is absolutely awesome. In real world roll on overtakes it has no peer mine has 108 ft lbs at rear wheel ( 84hp)'and it has a distinct rush of power from 3 to 5k. It handles well enough to embarass lots of wannabe fast lads and its build quality is fabulous. Mine has professionally modded exhausts and sounds like distant thunder when its 1/2 mile away. When its close by the concussion causes small mammals and children to explode. Lovely

The only people who slate the MT-01 are those that want raw power, talk to anyone who either owns or has owned one to get the real story. I bought mine in order to slow me down a bit, it's done just that and yes it's missing a bit of top end if you're on a track, but on the road....is 130mph not fast enough for you...I still got round Cadwell in less than 2 mins and have a massive smile on my face every time I ride it. The brakes are great, it handles a treat and sound just fricking awesome, nothing will leave you behind in the twisties but don't expect to keep up with the boy racers on the straights. Fabulous bike for those who want to have fun, go scratching but not break the sound barrier.

I bought my 2009 MT-01 a couple of years ago from the dealer. She sat on the floor for over a year. I read the reviews and finally rode her - great bike. MT-01 has fantastic power down low and mid range. Higher up (170km/hr and up) performance is very good but not quite the same as the 5 valve 4 cyl bikes I've ridden. I'm in my late 30s and wanted to my bike to handle sporty and be able to pass traffic quickly with just a flick of the wrist at the same time looking very unique. This bike more than delivers! I get the whole KODO thing and it really is about the whole package - looks, feel, and performance. My back never hurts and the seat is very comfortable but I would hate to be a passenger on the pillon. I'm 5'6" tall and about 155 lbs and the bike feels great - short riders don't feel too intimidated as long as you have some riding experience. I'm on the balls of my feet but the bike is very balanced. Not everyone has this bike, especially in Canada, so if you can get a good deal on one it is definitely a keeper.

I have ridden many bikes from ZXR400's to Bandits to TL1000'S. The engine on this bike is absolutely awsome, so much torque, unique sound and pleanty fast enough. The quality of the parts considering it is a Jap bike is fantastic, the paint is thick, and the detail of the engine is superb. The seat is comfortable and the bike really handles, much better than the TL. It never fails to impress and you don't see many on the road. And did I mention the brakes... absolutely awsome. Go try one..

This is the bike that all riders should aspire to. Its everything that i have ever wanted. It is not just about the amazing looks, the muscle styling, the imposing engine, the incredible pipes and mufflers, nor is just about the superb build quality, nor the feel and noise of the 1700cc v-twin, nor the agile sports handling or stop on a dime brakes, its about how it makes you feel. Its a total experience of joy, of every sensation that you've ever had all rolled into one. Its like being groped under the dinner table by Angelina Jolie as your mum sits opposite you: Its a complete assault on the senses, a Kylie Monogue bitchslap while eating chillied lemons. Its completely different, completely original and unforgetable. Ingore the price or the fact that its not made in some hard to pronounce European city, this is the real deal, true exotica. Its power, panache, pose, and porn. Its the best bike that i've every owned, ridden or even seen. Disregard the 90 BHP quoted on the spec sheet, this rhino chargers at blistering pace and makes a mockery of trainspotters and anoraks alike. If you like to be centre of attention, experience a slight sense of massive superiority, and want to take the focus off the Ducati and Harley boys, then this is for you. This is the bike that James Bond keeps at home in the garage away from the camera crew. So don't leave this earth until you have at least ridden one. Afterall, if you are not religulous then this may be as spiritual as you will ever get.

I have owned a MT 01 for 2 years, had a test ride on a sports bike today. Thankfully i will be keeping the MT 01, the sports bike did not handle any better than the MT, and the acceleration was about the same, the Mt is a lot better ride though and still as me grinning like cheshire cat.

I have owned a MT 01 for 2 years, had a test ride on a sports bike today. Thankfully i will be keeping the MT 01, the sports bike did not handle any better than the MT, and the acceleration was about the same, the Mt is a lot better ride though and still as me grinning like cheshire cat.

This is a cross between a B-King and a cruiser, awesome sound with akrapovic pipes, well sorted chassis, very sharp brakes need some getting used to. Also weighs a fair bit, but it's hidden well a when you get on the move. Very comfy and you don't see many on the road. Excellent build quality and paintwork.

I bought a 3 year old MT two months ago. What a bike! It looks and sounds like nothing on earth. Every time I park up someone comes over for a look and a chat. It's comfortable, easy to ride and full of character. The ideal combination of jaw-dropping looks, air-cooled V-twin simplicity, and Japanese reliability.

I've had one for three weeks now. It's an incredible bike. It looks amazing, sounds amazing and is just so much damn fun to ride. The only problem I have with it is that the mirror stems are too short, my elbows take up most of the view.

No other word for it. Fun. I love it. I use ot for touring as well, a small screen and it's really quite comfy

who says this is a man's bike?? Come on ladies! I'm a female rider, age over 30 (ahem), 5ft 5" tall and the proud owner of a yamaha mt-01. Bike came with a pair of Akrapovic exhausts (beautiful), also removed baffles for even more sound and she sounds like thunder! Had my bike for 12 months and I love her she f-ing rocks, best damn bike I have had in 8 years of riding. Very easy to handle (even for a lady!!!). Commute every day, she's great round town and have done a few track days. Also been touring to france, germany, netherlands and doing 12 hour days in the saddle without any discomfort or numb botty, this bike is incredibly comfortable and luggage is no problem. My only complaints are the fuel range, I get about 90 miles before light comes on and the weight, she's a fair old beast to haul about off the stand--ouff, you will need your oats! on the move though she's as light as a light thing. Enjoy ladies. miss g with big nads.

I'm 6'1" and 16 stone (100kgs) and found the bikes seat remakably comfortable, the only downside was how high I found the pegs, but I soon got used to it, and I'm sure due to the bikes width it helps with ground clearance. The bike oozes quality and detail. The engine makes the bike move slighlty on tick over, which makes you really get a feeling for the huge pistons pulsing beneath you. It revs freely making a spine tingling sound, even on stock cans. Its not the lightest bike by a long shot, but it never becomes an issue, even around town, the brakes, torque and exellent balance see to that. The ride is very stable and reassuring, partly down to the weight I just mentioned, it has a light but planted feel on the move, which is great for windy conditions or passing lorry's. There is nothing bad about this bike, in fact, its a bargain at the prices I have seen them at (because people don't 'get it'). Its not a bike you tend to see about either, so with the value, you also recieve exclusivity. Go to a bike meet and see how many other MT-01's are there... This bike is a well kept secret, take a test ride and don't look back..... well.. exept for lifesavers of course!

Great bike to ride one of the easiest around,raod test hear say's "massive vibes" what vibes ? this machine throbs with TORQUE somthing sports bike's have above 6000 RPM,its a mans bike.

I sold my 05 MT-01 thinking that i would use another bike more. I was wrong - i tried all kinds of other bikes out, non of which stirred my soul like the MT does...so a few weeks on and i'm getting another, slightly newer one. This one's a keeper. Once you've owned one, it's hard to be satisfied with anything else. They rock!

Useable torque when you need it around town. Incredible good overall comfort and balance. If you want a track bike, it's not for you. If you want to ride the bike on the street, it is the best off the line and around the few easy corners. Great comfort, useable torque right off the line. Drop the clutch, no problem the bike still lunges into action. Very little top end if you are on an Autobahn, but with our Canadian speed limits, this meets or exceeds any needs someone over 21 needs. I have had sport bikes and cruisers. Both left either comfort or agility out. The MT01 seems to meet my needs so far. I have only had the bike for 6 months but I am sold on it's overall mannerisms.

It was on my wish list from 2005, but way too expensive. Then, a dealer 600km away (I live in Victoria, Oz, but am a Pom), dropped the price $6,000 - it had been in his showroom for 2yrs - not even test ridden! This bike is a ball-tearer. But go several steps further and customise, especially after market pipes, and add a turbo (made in Sweden - www.amracing.se/ovrigt_en.html). I'm in my late 40's, and don't need any type of Viagra as this machine keeps me virile to the max! An eight hour day in the saddle no dramas. 300km on a full tank, cruising around 115kmh, with a tail bag and no melting of fabric. But it is a heavy bike. Flickable compared to a cruiser for sure, but not a 125, or even a 600 for handling! I overshot a corner when it was less than 300km new, but ended up / dropped on a soft verge - fortunately (perhaps because of). If you've got alpha male gonads, this is the bike! Paul, Vic., Oz.

My Baby ZZR600 was backed into by a man in a white van, and he admitted the liability Ok even though i've got a car i want a bike 'cos he's got to pay for it. When the delivery van turned up and said.... there are no more 600cc bikes, so we've brought this for you..... yes it was an MT 01 F**k**g hell!! said i i couldn't believe it only 3miles on the clock BRAND NEW! Spent the afternoon riding all over the Black Country, i'll miss her when she goes, what a bike!!!!!!

outstanding.... buy one today

Just bought a new yamaha mt-01 & after 33 years of biking & owning a plethora of bikes! i have finaly found what i have been looking for! this is the finest bit o'kit i ever had my butt on!!! ya gotta try one theres no other bike like it.. yowzer!

A machine that draws glances wherever it goes and is sure to start a conversation at your local petrol station as you fill up; only make it a short conversation because the tank is rather small for a bike with a 1700cc engine - 15 Litres including the 3 Litre reserve. A problem? Only if you were wanting to go more than 100 miles or so between fill-ups, but why would you? This bike begs to be ridden where people can see it and hear it, through towns and villages and the twisty roads between! But be careful; When this beast rumbles and pops it's way through the countryside small mammals run for cover in all directions and normally placid dogs take to barking and giving chase. Put your best gear on and look your best when you stop for fuel or a bite to eat - because people will stare in your direction. This is not a motorbike for a 'wall-flower' or faint of heart; this is a bike that screams "Oy! Get a load of my big pipes!".. Geezer! Strengths: Looks. Sound. Presence on the road. Weaknesses: Fuel capacity. Underseat space. Vibrating Mirrors.

Very underrated bike, if you fancied a Buell but it wasn't quick enough for you try one of these. End cans, power commander and remove the airbox/bolt some K&N's direct and the power and torque are stunning. It's a comfortable, fast, solid steering bike you will just want to ride and ride. Low and mid range power makes any traffic dissapear!! you can launch this thing so quickly without worrying about wheelspin or wheelies....it's unreal. Everyone will ask you what it is and tell you it's like nothing else. You can ride it like Mr Harley through town or like a complete lunatic out in the country it will do both. Pegs will touch sooner than you think. Strengths: Engine, noise, road presence, 0-100 acceleration, comfort, solid build quality. Weaknesses: Initial cost...but a used bike will be affordable and might have the right mods on.

Test rode this bike, It has amazing acceleration, very addictive, I just wanted to accelerate for the noise, speed etc, then deccelerate for the pops and bangs, very vibey but you get used to it, good on fast A and B roads, good on motorways up to 90, not so good in town at 30, comfortable upright riding position. Twist the throttle and hang on! Strengths: Acceleration, Comfort. Weaknesses: Air box covers in Aluminium, Vibration, Town riding.