Gallery: Yamaha Tracer 700 group test

Yamaha’s MT-07 is the latest machine to be given the sports touring ‘Tracer’ treatment. All the ingredients are there: a punchy engine, comfy riding position, funky styling and an affordable price tag. 

We took the Japanese firm’s MT-07 derived Tracer for a group test to discover how it compares to its twin-cyclinder 650/700cc rivals.

The bikes we used for the test…

BMW F700GS

£7815

BMW’s entry-level sports adventure machine was launched in 2013 and took over from the old F650GS. The 798cc parallel twin-cylinder machine is the most expensive here, but it’s also the most frugal. Our test bike is fitted with over a grand’s-worth of optional goodies. 

Kawasaki Versys 650

£6849

Based on the parallel-twin cylinder ER-6, the Versys 650 has been around for a decade now and this latest third evolution arrived at dealers last year with its biggest ever makeover, boasting new adventure-inspired styling, suspension, brakes, 21-litre fuel tank and engine mods. It’s the bike to beat.

Suzuki V-Strom 650

£6999

It seems like the DL650 V-Strom, to give it its full name, has been around forever, but Suzuki’s V-twin sports adventurer has only been with us since 2004. It was updated in 2011 with the motor pinched from the Gladius, revised styling and ABS. It’s the only bike here with a 19-inch front wheel. 

Yamaha Tracer 700

£6299

Yamaha’s new Tracer 700 is based heavily on the MCN’s Overall Machine of the Year 2014: the MT-07. In its transformation from naked to sports touring, the parallel twin-cylinder Tracer 700 has roomier riding position, lazier steering geometry and a Euro 4 compliant engine.

Check out our gallery above to see how our day unfolded.

To get our Production Editor’s opinion on our first ride with the Tracer 700 read here.

And if this has spurred you to buy your perfect two-wheeled companion? Visit MCN Bikes For Sale website or use MCN’s Bikes For Sale App for more.