At around $15,199, the 2025 Yamaha MT-07 LA is no longer the bargain it once was. But this fourth-generation model fixes most of the things owners used to complain about. It gets proper radial brakes, ride-by-wire, traction control and a modern TFT dash, without losing the light, torquey character that made the MT-07 New Zealand’s go-to learner naked.
What is it?
The MT-07 has been Yamaha’s best-selling road bike for over a decade. The 2025 update is the biggest since the original. Almost everything around the engine is new:
- a new, stiffer frame and swingarm
- 41mm upside-down forks
- twin radial-mount four-piston front calipers
- lighter SpinForged wheels
- ride-by-wire throttle with riding modes and traction control
- a 5-inch TFT dash with smartphone connectivity and navigation
- new styling, LED lighting, a slip-assist clutch and auto-cancelling indicators
In New Zealand the learner-approved version is the MT-07 LA. It uses a 655cc version of the CP2 twin to meet LAMS rules. Overseas there’s a full-power 689cc bike, and in some markets a Y-AMT automated-manual version. Check with your dealer what’s available locally.
The engine: still the star
The LA makes a claimed 38.3kW (52hp) at 8,000rpm and 57.5Nm at 4,000rpm. That torque peak is the key number. The 270-degree crank twin pulls hard from low revs, so it’s relaxed in traffic and doesn’t need to be revved to make progress on the open road.
For a learner, it’s about as friendly as engines get: predictable, responsive and easy to manage. The slip-assist clutch is lighter than before, which helps in stop-start city riding. The full-power bike makes about 72hp, so learners who upgrade later know what they’re missing, but the LA never feels slow at legal speeds.
Overseas testers note some vibration through the bars at motorway speeds, which can numb hands on long, cold rides.
Chassis and handling
Yamaha says the new frame is around 12–13% stiffer than before. Combined with the lighter wheels, testers describe it as sharper and more planted than the old bike, while keeping the MT-07’s light, flickable steering.
The suspension is the weak point. The 41mm forks look the part but have no adjustment. The rear shock now offers preload and rebound adjustment, but several reviewers found it harsh over sharp bumps. On rough New Zealand back roads, you’ll feel it.
Weight and seat height
At a claimed 183kg wet, the MT-07 is light for its class. The seat stays at 805mm, and the tank is narrow, so most riders can get their feet down comfortably. That’s a big part of why it suits newer riders. The standard seat is firm, though, and some owners will want a comfort seat for longer days.
Brakes
This is the biggest upgrade. The old MT-07’s front brakes were adequate at best. The 2025 bike gets:
- front: twin 298mm discs with radial four-piston calipers
- rear: a single 245mm disc
- ABS front and rear
Stopping power is a clear step up. One reviewer found the initial bite slightly grabby for a learner bike, so be smooth with the lever early on.
Electronics: finally modern
Ride-by-wire brings riding modes and switchable traction control for the first time. The 5-inch TFT connects to your phone for notifications, music and turn-by-turn navigation via Yamaha’s app.
What you don’t get is an IMU, so there’s no cornering ABS or lean-sensitive traction control. Rivals like the Triumph Trident 660 include these. A two-way quickshifter is an optional accessory, and the bike comes pre-wired for it.
Comfort and practicality
The new bars are wider, lower and further back, and the pegs are lower. The result is a slightly more aggressive but still upright position. There’s almost no wind protection, so expect buffeting at 100km/h.
The 14L tank and overseas claims of about 67mpg (roughly 4.2L/100km) should give you 250–300km between fills in mixed riding.
Ownership considerations
This is where the MT-07 is hard to beat:
- Yamaha has a large NZ dealer network.
- The CP2 engine has a strong reliability record.
- Used MT-07s hold their value well, because there’s always demand from learners.
- There’s a huge range of aftermarket parts and accessories.
If you’re buying your first bike and expect to sell it in a few years, that resale strength matters.
The verdict
What’s good:
- torquey, friendly 655cc twin
- light, easy handling and an approachable 805mm seat
- much better radial front brakes
- traction control, riding modes and a connected TFT
- strong dealer support and resale values
What’s not:
- non-adjustable forks and a firm rear shock
- no cornering ABS or IMU
- quickshifter is an extra-cost option
- some vibration and buffeting at motorway speeds
- styling divides opinion
- price has crept up
Bottom line: The 2025 MT-07 LA is still the benchmark learner naked in New Zealand. It’s easy to ride, fun once you’re experienced, and now has the brakes and electronics it always needed. If you want more power and more tech for similar money, look at the Triumph Trident 660 LAMS. If you want a bike that’s simple, proven and easy to sell later, the MT-07 is the safe bet. Book a test ride on a rough road to see if the rear shock suits you.
Price and specifications are from NZ dealer listings and Yamaha at the time of writing. Check with your local Yamaha dealer for current pricing and stock.
