New MT-09 Y-AMT to debut in Q4 of 2024
It seems that going automatic (besides full electrification) is the direction where motorcycle manufacturers wanted to be. For instance, BMW has recently debuted its Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) on the R 1300 GS Adventure. KTM has also been testing with similar automatic transmission technology, and the first public display of the prototype was seen in this year’s Erzbergrodeo.
Honda has had an automatic transmission for years on the Goldwing and CRF1100L Africa Twin, but it also introduced a new tech called the e-clutch.
Now, Yamaha will be introducing its own automatic transmission on motorcycles, with the upcoming MT-09 Y-AMT in Q4 of 2024.
Y-AMT
Debuting on the MT-09, the new Yamaha Automated Manual Transmission (Y-AMT) uses electronic actuators to shift gears, and engage and disengage the clutch of the motorcycle. This eliminates the need for both the traditional clutch lever and a foot-operated gear shifter, allowing the rider to better focus on their riding flow.
Gear changes are activated through a tactile see-saw switch placed at the rider’s left hand fingertips. Riders can either use their thumb and index finger to upshift with the plus lever, and downshift with the minus lever, or opt for a single-finger operation for sportier riding, using only the index finger to shift by pulling the plus lever to shift up, and pushing it to shift down for the ultimate sporty ride.
The system completely takes over gear-shifting functions when in one of the two AT modes, but can be overridden using the see-saw lever.
Same potent MT-09
Powered by the soulful 890cc CP3 three-cylinder crossplane-concept engine, the MT-09 Y-AMT delivers a lively 117 PS of power at 10,000 rpm and the riding experience is enhanced by the aural tuning of the induction system, with mesh vents integrated into the fuel tank to allow the rider to hear the mighty induction roar at high rpm.
The minimalist design language of the MT-09 Y-AMT expresses the motorcycle’s ‘ready for action’ attitude and showcases the lightweight CF aluminum die-cast frame, which is ideal for sporty riding. The chassis is the latest development of Yamaha’s iconic Deltabox frame and has been tuned to provide a high level of chassis stiffness, giving excellent rider feedback and outstanding agility.
The dynamic nature of Yamaha’s Y-AMT technology has been made possible by the ‘ride-by-wire’ Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) system and a six-axis IMU, which controls a comprehensive electronics suite derived from the R1. This class-leading electronics package includes lean-sensitive, three-level traction control (TCS), Slide Control System (SCS), Front Wheel Lift Control System (LIF), Brake Control System (BC), and Back Slip Regulator (BSR).
Customizable ride modes allow the rider to further tailor the performance and attitude of their machine, with the full-color TFT dashboard presenting all the information in a clear and easy-to-understand format, alongside smartphone connectivity and navigation functionality.
Availability
The new MT-09 Y-AMT will be available with three color liveries: Tech Black, Midnight Cyan and Icon Blue. Overseas deliveries will begin in Q4 of 2024, while Philippine availability is TBA.
