7 Points to Elucidate the Performance of the New MT-25 / 03

The sports naked "MT-03 ABS" and "MT-25 ABS" representing YAMAHA's small class have undergone minor changes. The new 2020 model has been enhanced its presence which includes new equipment that satisfies the styling and ownership of the next generation of the MT series. Where and how are the changes? I also predict its riding performance after reading the intention above.

Table of Contents

The most notable is the inverted front fork inherited from the new R25.

The most notable is the inverted front fork inherited from the new R25.

Let's consider individually regarding the following 7 points listed as new features.

1) A fearless front face full of innovation

Regarding the front face, it seems that this aimed at the common look with other MT series. The headlight that have changed from traditional variants of single lights to dual slant-eye position lights are prominent. Moreover, changing to LED build the confidence of having the latest headlight. In particular, this class has many young users and can be said to be a design that resonates with the generation of sensitivity.

2) Fuel tank cover reminiscent of a big motorcycle look

This big motorcycle look is the keyword. In the ASEAN region, motorcycles that still look bigger are more popular including at the producing country of Indonesia. The concept of "athletic performance = lightweight and compact" is a value of developed countries where big motorcycle has already spread.

3) Impressive "lump" in front with a mass-forward design

This also further emphasizes the concept that the MT series has pursued consistently. It is a visual presentation of "MT = Master of Torque". The forward center of gravity setting actually contributes to sporty handling.

4) Inverted front fork suspension supporting agile riding in the city

The most influential part of riding performance in this model change is the inverted front fork suspension. The inverted front fork was adopted for the first time with the new R25 / R3 that has undergone minor changes in 2019. When I asked the reasons of the YAMAHA developers at that time, I received a response saying "It is the improvement of stability and approach speed at the corner approach". This means you can do harder braking and enter the corners while keeping a high speed.

When I had tested a ride on the new R25 at the circuit afterward, it was actually prominent. Surely, you will see a similar evolution on the MT-25 / 03.

5) Upright handlebar position for easy riding in the city

The new R25 / R3 handlebar position has been lowered by 22mm compared to the previous model, resulting in a sportier riding position. As a result, the front load became easier to apply naturally and the initial turning force was improved, but instead, it can be no longer easy.

Since the MT series is mainly for city riding and touring at that point, isn't it true that you want to make a drastic difference in your riding position? The upright posture where the upper body raised makes it suitable for city riding naturally as well as comfortable for maneuverability. If you want to keep it low for high-speed riding, all you have to do is fold your arms and lie down.

6) Full meter and electrical system around the handlebar

It becomes a full LCD type similar to the new R25 / R3, and it is cool without complaint. It comes down to this.

7) New tires corresponding widely from city riding to winding

Currently, radial tires have been newly adopted as OE for the MT-03, but if you think about it, the R3 was a radial tire against the R25 bias tire from the previous model. The MT-03 is 42ps compared to 35ps of the MT-25. If there is a difference of 7ps in power, that could be understood. Considering that the riding performance has also improved compared to the previous model, I have nothing to say if the tires are reinforced according to the motorcycle.

So, the specs such as horsepower are almost unchanged from the previous model, but I think that the new model has added exquisite improvements. It can exactly be called normal evolution.

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