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In 2021, Yamaha transformed the Tracer 900 line into the Tracer 9 GT. Much to the delight of mile-munching tourers, the GT boasted upgrades like KYB’s semi-active suspension and Iwata’s 890 cc CP3 (cross-plane inline-triple) engine. Much to the chagrin of bargain-minded Tracer loyalists, those updates also came with a $14,899 price tag.
Less than three years removed from that radical revamp, Yamaha is at it again. This time around, Team Blue elevates its heavy-middleweight sport-tourer to full flagship status. It does so with a raft of high-tech rider aids co-headlined by radar-assisted adaptive cruise control (ACC) and a unified braking system (UBS). As a result, the handsomely equipped 2024 Tracer 9 GT+ is handsomely priced at $16,499 MSRP.
Before I get ahead of myself, it’s worth noting that much of the GT+’s hardware remains largely unchanged. Aside from the 267 mm rear disc (up from 245 mm), slightly taller seat height, and new radar unit nestled between the headlights, the model’s mechanical specifications and dimensions carry over from the 2022 model year (Yamaha never listed a 2023 model Tracer in the United States). For that reason, I’ve included much of that information further below. So, without further ado, let’s talk tech.
On the radar
Yes, Yamaha is late to the radar party. Several models from BMW, Ducati, KTM, and Kawasaki have featured the advanced technology for years now. However, the bLU cRU relies on what it calls its Millimeter Wave Radar unit to drive both its adaptive cruise control and unified braking system.
ACC works as most would expect, monitoring and maintaining following distances with the aid of the front-facing radar. Riders can tailor that buffer zone to their personal preference with four adjustable pre-sets. When a vehicle obstructs the Tracer’s path, the system decelerates to preserve a safe and comfortable gap. Once the lane clears, ACC automatically introduces acceleration until the bike reaches its previously designated cruising speed. By most accounts, that’s standard issue for ACC these days.
The same can’t be said for Yamaha’s UBS. Leveraging data from both the radar unit and the six-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), the linked system assists in speed-shedding efforts. If UBS determines that the braking pressure applied by the user is inadequate for the closing speed, it adds the additional force required. That extra bite doesn’t unsettle the chassis either, as the system simultaneously adapts damping characteristics of both front and rear suspenders accordingly.
Tied into the Brake Control (BC) feature, UBS also supports the Tracer’s cornering brake control. When leaned over, it automatically regulates braking force to mitigate tire slippage. Outside of emergency situations, the Hydraulic Control Unit helps to evenly distributes brake pressure fore and aft — especially when the rider exclusively utilizes the front or rear brake. With all that said, Yamaha makes it clear that UBS isn’t a collision-avoidance system and riders can disable UBS by simply turning off BC.
In addition to the radar-driven aids, the GT+ benefits from the latest generation KYB semi-active suspension and Yamaha’s third-generation quickshifter (which works in concert with the new adaptive cruise control). Also, a new seven-inch, full-color TFT display replaces the dual 3.5-inch units that debuted in 2021. Bluetooth connectivity and a USB-A outlet allow users to receive phone calls and control music on the go. The Yamaha MyRide-Link app expands those capabilities with weather updates and text message notifications, while the Garmin Motorize app transmits turn-by-turn navigation directly to the TFT dash (subscription required).
Great expectations
With the advent of radar-dependent aids, there’s little doubt that Yamaha is casting the 2024 Tracer 9 GT+ as a premium sport-tourer. The model assumes that new role in a trim-exclusive Storm Gray colorway. Team Blue expects its flagship sport-tourer to roll into showrooms in August. Readers can expect a first ride report here at Common Tread around the same time.
| 2024 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ | |
|---|---|
| Price (MSRP) | $16,499 |
| Engine | 890 cc, liquid-cooled, 12-valve, inline triple |
|
Transmission, final drive |
Six-speed, chain |
| Claimed horsepower | NA |
| Claimed torque | NA |
| Frame | Aluminum twin-spar |
| Front suspension | KYB 41 mm inverted fork, electronically adjustable; 5.1 inches of travel |
| Rear suspension |
KYB shock, electronically adjustable; 5.4 inches of travel
|
| Front brake | Dual 298 mm discs; ABS |
| Rear brake | 267 mm disc; ABS |
| Rake, trail | 25.0 degrees, 4.3 inches |
| Wheelbase | 59.1 inches |
| Seat height | 32.3 / 32.9 inches |
| Fuel capacity | 5.0 gallons |
| Tires | 120/70-ZR17 front, 180/55-ZR17 rear |
| Claimed weight | 492 pounds |
| Available | August 2023 |
| Warranty | 12 months |
| More info | yamahamotorsports.com |
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