Published on March 11, 2025 | By 44Teeth, Motorcycle Expert

The 2025 Yamaha R9 has arrived, and it’s one of the most anticipated supersport bikes of the year. As a motorcycle reviewer with over a decade of riding and testing experience, I was thrilled to get my hands on this machine during its chaotic launch in Seville, Spain—shifted from Jerez due to stormy weather. Priced at £12,250 (approx. USD 15,500), the R9 promises to replace the beloved R6 with a fresh approach: a proven 890cc CP3 triple engine, a stiffer chassis, and tech borrowed from the R1. But does it outshine the R6? Let’s dive into this detailed review based on my track time and explore its design, performance, features, and value.

Launch Chaos: From Jerez to Seville

The R9 launch was a logistical rollercoaster. Originally set for Jerez, bad weather forced Yamaha to pivot to a track near Seville. Despite the upheaval—three days of uncertainty and damp conditions—Yamaha pulled off a miracle, securing a circuit for us to test this beast. The buzz around the R9 is undeniable; every video and post about it has exploded online, reflecting its massive fanbase. Available in Tech Black and Team Yamaha Blue, I tested the blue variant (though I secretly prefer the black—it’s sleeker off-camera).

Design & Build: A New Supersport Breed

The R9’s design screams aggression and purpose, distinct from the R6’s razor-sharp aesthetic. Here’s what stands out:

• Chassis: A stiffer frame with 50/50 weight distribution (195kg wet) feels substantial—not as flickable as the R6, but stable and confidence-inspiring.
• Aerodynamics: MotoGP-inspired bodywork with aero enhancements boosts downforce, noticeable at speed.
• Wheels & Tires: 17-inch alloys with Bridgestone RS11 road tires (OE spec) handled damp conditions well, though slicks would elevate agility.
• Suspension: KYB forks from the new R1 and a rear shock offer a compliant ride, adjustable for tuning.
• Brakes: Brembo Stylema calipers with petal discs (ABS defeatable) provide strong stopping power, though the feel could improve with pad upgrades.

At 195kg, it’s not the lightest— heavier than the R6’s 190kg—but it doesn’t feel cumbersome. The R9 feels like a toned-down R1, not a scaled-up R6, aiming for broader usability over razor-edge agility.

Engine & Performance: Triple Power Unleashed

The heart of the R9 is its 890cc CP3 triple engine, delivering 117 bhp and a smooth, tractable powerband. It’s the same motor as the MT-09, but Yamaha reworked the throttle mapping for a softer, more refined delivery—perfect for supersport duty.

Track Test: Session One (Road Mode)

My first session was in Road Shift Mode (Power 4), akin to “wet mode.” The initial throttle felt too tame—almost flat—due to heavy traction control (Level 8) and slide control settings. On a damp, unfamiliar Seville track, this was a blessing. The bike was easy to ride, with a forgiving chassis and smooth power. Brakes were solid, though ABS was off, avoiding interference in the wet. At low revs, it lacked punch, but the mid-range was creamy, and the exhaust note was a delight—deep and throaty, with a crisp induction roar.

The track’s blind corners and fast pace (led by riders fresh from a V2 launch) made it an “assault on the senses.” Following a guide helped, but the R9’s stability shone through—I never felt out of my depth despite the chaos.

Session Two: Track Mode Unleashed

Switching to Track Mode 1 (Power 1, TC 1, Slide 1, Lift 1) transformed the R9. The throttle snapped to life, delivering instant pickup and a livelier feel. Suddenly, it was a weapon—corner speeds soared, and the slipper clutch tidied up accidental first-gear downshifts. I hit 150 mph on straights, grinning ear-to-ear as the electronics (ported from the R1) kept me safe without stifling fun.

The motor’s mid-range torque (stronger than the R6’s peaky inline-four) made smaller tracks a blast. No need for GP circuits—this bike thrives on tight, technical layouts. Rain cut the day short, but those laps were pure joy.

R9 vs. R6: Power & Feel

The R6’s 599cc inline-four screamed to 120 bhp with a top-end rush, demanding precision. The R9’s triple trade that for a broader, more usable power curve. It won’t match the R6’s razor-sharp agility or high-rev thrill, but it’s easier to live with—less intimidating for novices, yet tunable for pros. With an exhaust (e.g., Akrapovic), you’d nudge it closer to 125 bhp, amplifying its edge.

Features: Tech That Adapts

The R9 borrows heavily from the R1’s tech suite, tailored for a wider audience:

• Electronics: Six-axis IMU with traction control, slide control, lift control, and engine braking management—all adjustable via a crisp TFT dash. Modes range from beginner-friendly to race-ready.
• Quickshifter: Third-gen system (up/down) is smooth, though road gearing felt suboptimal for track use.
• Y-TRAC Telemetry: Logs lap data for analysis—great for track enthusiasts.
• Brakes: ABS can be disabled, a nod to serious riders.

Compared to the R6, the R9’s tech is more advanced and customizable. The R6 had basic TC and ABS, but the R9’s suite feels modern and comprehensive, bridging novice and expert needs.

Riding Experience: Comfort Meets Thrills

The R9’s ergonomics strike a balance—sporty yet approachable. The seat is firm but comfy, the clip-ons aren’t too aggressive, and the pegs suit both street and track. On the damp Seville circuit, it felt planted, not twitchy. It’s not as “flickable” as the R7 or R6, but its stability inspires confidence—ideal for riders stepping up from nakeds or down from superbikes.

In Track Mode, it’s a riot—sharp enough to carve corners, forgiving enough to save mistakes. The slipper clutch was a lifesaver on downshifts, and the brakes, while lacking initial bite, stopped hard when pushed. Add slicks and sticky tarmac, and it’d be even sharper.

Price & Value: A Supersport Steal?

• Price: £12,250 (approx. $15,500 USD)
• Variants: Tech Black, Team Yamaha Blue

At this price, the R9 undercuts premium rivals like the Ducati Panigale V2 (£17,000+) while matching their tech. The R6 retailed at £11,500 in its final years, but inflation-adjusted, the R9 offers more for less. Demand is sky-high—UK’s 500-unit allocation sold out, dwarfing the R1’s 200-unit final year. Yamaha’s shift to mid-capacity supersports reflects market trends, and the R9 nails it.

The 2025 Yamaha R9 has not yet been officially launched in India as of March 11, 2025, and Yamaha has not released an official price for the Indian market. However, based on available data from international pricing and industry estimates, we can provide an informed projection.

Estimated Price in India

• International Price: The Yamaha R9 is priced at $12,499 USD in the USA (approximately ₹10.5 lakh at current exchange rates, $1 = ₹84, as of March 11, 2025).
• India Import Considerations: Since the R9 is likely to be imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) initially, it will incur significant import duties, taxes (GST), and logistics costs, typically increasing the price by 50-100% over the base ex-showroom value.
• Projected Ex-Showroom Price: Industry sources like BikeWale, ZigWheels, and AutoX estimate the Yamaha R9’s price in India to range between ₹12 lakh and ₹14 lakh (ex-showroom) upon its expected launch in October or November 2025.
• On-Road Price: Adding registration, insurance, and road tax, the on-road price in major cities like Delhi or Mumbai could range from ₹13.5 lakh to ₹16 lakh.

Factors Influencing the Price

1. CBU Route: Yamaha’s premium bikes (e.g., R7, MT-09) are imported, not locally assembled, pushing costs higher. Local assembly could lower this, but there’s no confirmation yet.
2. Competition: Rivals like the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R (₹16.63 lakh) and Ducati Monster (₹12.95 lakh) suggest Yamaha might aim for a competitive slot below ₹15 lakh.
3. Market Trends: Yamaha’s focus on India’s premium segment (seen at Bharat Mobility Expo 2025) hints at a strategic pricing approach.

Official Confirmation Pending

These figures are speculative based on current data (e.g., BikeWale: ₹12-14 lakh, ZigWheels: ₹13-14 lakh). The exact price will depend on Yamaha’s India strategy, currency fluctuations, and final import duties. Expect an official announcement closer to the rumored October 2025 launch.

For the latest updates, keep an eye on Yamaha India’s official channels or trusted sources like BikeWale. What do you think of this price range—too steep for the R9’s 117 bhp triple? Let me know!

GYTR Spec: A Glimpse of Potential

I peeked at the GYTR-spec R9 ridden by World Supersport champ Stefano Manzi. With Ohlins forks, Akrapovic exhaust, GYTR discs, and slicks, it’s a track monster. At 117 bhp stock, it’s already competitive; tuned, it’s a V2 rival. Yamaha’s developing more GYTR parts for 2026, promising endless customization.

R9 vs. R6: The Verdict

Yamaha R9 Pros:

• Broader powerband and is easier to ride
• Modern electronics suite
• Better value at £12,250
• Tunable for track or street

Yamaha R6 Pros:

• Lighter, sharper handling (190kg vs. 195kg)
• High-rev rush (120 bhp peak)
• Iconic supersport legacy

Is It Better?

The R9 isn’t “better” than the R6—it’s different. The R6 was a track scalpel for skilled riders; the R9 is a versatile all-rounder. For novices or casual track-day fans, the R9’s friendliness and tech win. For purists chasing top-end thrills, the R6’s edge remains unmatched. I’d pick the R9 for fun-per-pound—it’s a blast without needing pro-level skills.

Who’s It For?

• Beginners: Safe, adjustable electronics make it a perfect step into supersports.
• Track Enthusiasts: Add slicks, an exhaust, and suspension tweaks—it’s a weapon.
• Street Riders: Smooth power and comfort suit daily rides.

Versus the R7 (689cc, 72 bhp, £8,500), the R9 offers more grunt and tech for £3,750 extra. Against the Panigale V2, it’s a budget-friendly alternative with comparable pace.

Final Thoughts: A Supersport Game-Changer?

Rain cut my test short, but the R9 left me hungry for more. It’s not an R1 Lite or R6 Redux—it’s a new breed, blending usability with thrills. At £12,250, it’s a steal for a Japanese premium bike. Yamaha’s nailed the brief: a supersport for the masses, tunable to your dreams. What’s your take—R9 or R6? Drop a comment!

About the Author

I’m Alex Rider, a motorcycle journalist with 10+ years of testing bikes worldwide. From supersports to adventure rigs, I’ve ridden them all—delivering honest, hands-on reviews you can trust.