ESP YAMAHA MT-09 2021 Owners Manual

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1
Safety information
EAU1028C
Be a Responsible Owner
As the vehicle’s owner, you are re-
sponsible for the safe and proper oper-
ation of your motorcycle.
Motorcycles are single-track vehicles.
Their safe use and operation are de-
pendent upon the use of proper riding
techniques as well as the expertise of
the operator. Every operator should
know the following requirements be-
fore riding this motorcycle.
He or she should:  Obtain thorough instructions from
a competent source on all aspects
of motorcycle operation.
 Observe the warnings and mainte-
nance requirements in this Own-
er’s Manual.
 Obtain qualified training in safe
and proper riding techniques.
 Obtain professional technical ser-
vice as indicated in this Owner’s
Manual and/or when made neces-
sary by mechanical conditions. 
Never operate a motorcycle with-
out proper training or instruction.
Take a training course. Beginners
should receive training from a cer-
tified instructor. Contact an autho-
rized motorcycle dealer to find out
about the training courses nearest
you.
Safe Ri din g
Perform the pre-operation checks
each time you use the vehicle to make
sure it is in safe operating condition.
Failure to inspect or maintain the vehi-
cle properly increases the possibility of
an accident or equipment damage.
See page 5-1 for a list of pre-operation
checks.  This motorcycle is designed to
carry the operator and a passen-
ger.
 The failure of motorists to detect
and recognize motorcycles in traf-
fic is the predominating cause of
automobile/motorcycle accidents.
Many accidents have been
caused by an automobile driver
who did not see the motorcycle.
Making yourself conspicuous ap- pears to be very effective in reduc-
ing the chance of this type of
accident.
Therefore:
• Wear a brightly colored jacket.
• Use extra caution when you are approaching and passing
through intersections, since in-
tersections are the most likely
places for motorcycle accidents
to occur.
• Ride where other motorists can see you. Avoid riding in another
motorist’s blind spot.
• Never maintain a motorcycle without proper knowledge.
Contact an authorized motorcy-
cle dealer to inform you on ba-
sic motorcycle maintenance.
Certain maintenance can only
be carried out by certified staff.UB7NE0E0.book Page 1 Friday, October 2, 2020 4:38 PM

Safety information
1-4
1
tents, can create unstable han-
dling or a slow steering re-
sponse.
 This vehicle is not desi gne d to
pull a trailer or to be attached to
a si decar.
Genuine Yamaha Accessories
Choosing accessories for your vehicle
is an important decision. Genuine
Yamaha accessories, which are avail- able only from a Yamaha dealer, have
been designed, tested, and approved
by Yamaha for use on your vehicle.
Many companies with no connection
to Yamaha manufacture parts and ac-
cessories or offer other modifications
for Yamaha vehicles. Yamaha is not in
a position to test the products that
these aftermarket companies produce.
Therefore, Yamaha can neither en-
dorse nor recommend the use of ac-
cessories not sold by Yamaha or
modifications not specifically recom-
mended by Yamaha, even if sold and
installed by a Yamaha dealer. Aftermarket Parts, Accessories, and
Mo
difications
While you may find aftermarket prod-
ucts similar in design and quality to
genuine Yamaha accessories, recog-
nize that some aftermarket accesso-
ries or modifications are not suitable
because of potential safety hazards to
you or others. Installing aftermarket
products or having other modifications
performed to your vehicle that change
any of the vehicle’s design or operation
characteristics can put you and others
at greater risk of serious injury or
death. You are responsible for injuries
related to changes in the vehicle.
Keep the following guidelines in mind,
as well as those provided under “Load-
ing” when mounting accessories.  Never install accessories or carry
cargo that would impair the per-
formance of your motorcycle.
Carefully inspect the accessory
before using it to make sure that it
does not in any way reduce
ground clearance or cornering
clearance, limit suspension travel, steering travel or control opera-
tion, or obscure lights or reflec-
tors.
• Accessories fitted to the han- dlebar or the front fork area can
create instability due to improp-
er weight distribution or aerody-
namic changes. If accessories
are added to the handlebar or
front fork area, they must be as
lightweight as possible and
should be kept to a minimum.
• Bulky or large accessories may seriously affect the stability of
the motorcycle due to aerody-
namic effects. Wind may at-
tempt to lift the motorcycle, or
the motorcycle may become
unstable in cross winds. These
accessories may also cause in-
stability when passing or being
passed by large vehicles.
• Certain accessories can dis- place the operator from his or
her normal riding position. This
improper position limits the
freedom of movement of the
UB7NE0E0.book Page 4 Friday, October 2, 2020 4:38 PM

Special features
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3
EAU91323
“D-MODE”“D-MODE” is an electronically con-
trolled engine performance system.
WARNING
EWA18440
Do not change the d rive mo de while
the vehicle is movin g.The “D-MODE” system consists of 4
different control maps which regulate
engine response and output, thus pro-
viding you with a selection of modes to
fit your preferences and the riding envi-
ronment.
D-MODE 1 - Sporty engine response
D-MODE 2 - Moderate engine re-
sponse
D-MODE 3 - Mild engine response
D-MODE 4 - Mild engine response and
limits engine outputTIP The current “D-MODE” setting is
shown in the MODE display. (See
page 4-11.)
 The current “D-MODE” setting is
saved when the vehicle is turned
off. 
The “D-MODE” is controlled by
the MODE switches, see page 4-4
for more information.
EAU91432
“TCS-MODE”This model is equipped with adjustable
traction, slide, and lift control systems
(TCS, SCS and LIF). These are
grouped together into “TCS-MODE”.
“TCS-MODE” has 4 settings:
“TCS-MODE M” is customizable in the
settings MENU, see page 4-15.
TCS
The traction control system helps
maintain traction when accelerating. If
sensors detect that the rear wheel is
starting to slip (uncontrolled spinning),
the traction control system assists by
regulating engine power as needed un-
til traction is restored. The stability
control indicator light “ ” flashes to
let the rider know that traction control
has engaged.
MODE TCS SCS LIF
TCS-MODE 1 111
TCS-MODE 2 222
TCS-MODE M 1, 2, 3 OFF,
1, 2, 3 OFF,
1, 2, 3
TCS-MODE OFF OFF OFF OFF
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Special features
3-2
3
This traction control system automati-
cally adjusts according to the vehicle’s
lean angle. To maximize acceleration,
when the vehicle is upright a lesser
amount of traction control is applied.
When cornering, a greater amount of
traction control is applied.
TIP
The traction control system may
engage when the vehicle travels
over a bump.
 You may notice slight changes in
engine and exhaust sounds when
the traction control or other sys-
tems engage.
 The traction control system can
only be turned off by setting “TCS-
MODE” to “OFF”, using the MODE switches. See page 4-4 for more
information on “TCS-MODE”.
 When “TCS-MODE” has been set
to “OFF”, the TCS, SCS and LIF
systems are all turned off togeth-
er.
WARNING
EWA15433
The traction control system is not a
substitute for ri din g appropriately
for the con ditions. Traction control
cannot prevent loss of traction d ue
to excessive spee d when enterin g
turns, when acceleratin g har d at a
sharp lean an gle, or while brakin g,
an d cannot prevent front wheel slip-
pin g. As with any vehicle, approach
surfaces that may be slippery with
caution an d avoi d especially slip-
pery surfaces.When the vehicle power is on, the trac-
tion control system automatically turns
on. The traction control system can be
turned on or off manually only when
the key is in the “ON” position and the
motorcycle is stopped.
TIP
the rear wheel if the motorcycle gets
stuck in mud, sand, or other soft sur-
faces.NOTICE
ECA16801
Use only the specifie d tires. (See
pa ge 7-15.) Usin g different size d
tires will prevent the traction control
system from controllin g tire rotation
accurately.SCS
The slide control system regulates en-
gine power output when a sideward
slide is detected in the rear wheel. It
adjusts power output based on data
from the IMU (Inertial Measurement
Unit). This system supports the TCS to
contribute to a smoother ride.
LIF
The lift control system reduces the rate
at which the front wheel rises during
extreme acceleration, such as during
starts or out-of-corner exits. When
front-wheel lift is detected, engine
TCS
UB7NE0E0.book Page 2 Friday, October 2, 2020 4:38 PM

Instrument and control functions
4-6
4
EAU88280
Turn si gnal in dicator li ghts “ ”
an d“”
Each indicator light will flash when its
corresponding turn signal lights are
flashing.
EAU88300
Neutral in dicator li ght “ ”
This indicator light comes on when the
transmission is in the neutral position.
EAU88310
Hi gh beam in dicator li ght “ ”
This indicator light comes on when the
high beam of the headlight is switched
on.
EAU88320
Fuel level warning light “ ”
This warning light comes on when the
fuel level drops below approximately
2.8 L (0.74 US gal, 0.62 Imp.gal). When
this occurs, refuel as soon as possible.
The electrical circuit of the warning
light can be checked by turning the ve-
hicle on. The warning light should
come on for a few seconds, and then
go off.
TIPIf the warning light does not come on at
all, remains on after refueling, or if the
warning light flashes repeatedly, have
a Yamaha dealer check the vehicle.
EAU88331
Malfunction in dicator li ght
(MIL) “ ”
This light comes on or flashes if a prob-
lem is detected in the engine or other
vehicle control system. If this occurs,
have a Yamaha dealer check the on-
board diagnostic system. The electri-
cal circuit of the warning light can be
checked by turning the vehicle power
on. The light should come on for a few
seconds, and then go off. If the light
does not come on initially when the ve-
hicle power is turned on, or if the light
remains on, have a Yamaha dealer
check the vehicle.NOTICE
ECA26820
If the MIL starts flashin g, re duce en-
g ine spee d to prevent exhaust sys-
tem damag e.
TIPThe engine is sensitively monitored by
the on-board diagnostic system to de-
tect deterioration or malfunction of the
emission control system. Therefore the
MIL may come on or flash due to vehi-
cle modifications, lack of maintenance,
or excessive/improper use of the mo-
torcycle. To prevent this, observe
these precautions.
 Do not attempt to modify the soft-
ware of the engine control unit.
 Do not add any electrical acces-
sories that interfere with engine
control.
 Do not use aftermarket accesso-
ries or parts such as suspension,
spark plugs, injectors, exhaust
system, etc.
 Do not change the drivetrain
specifications (chain, sprockets,
wheels, tires, etc.).
 Do not remove or alter the O2 sen-
sor, air induction system, or ex-
haust parts (catalysts or EXUP,
etc.).
 Maintain the drive chain properly.
 Maintain correct tire pressure.
UB7NE0E0.book Page 6 Friday, October 2, 2020 4:38 PM

Instrument and control functions
4-11
4 
If the vehicle coolant temperature
is above 124 °C (255 °F) the cool-
ant temperature display will read
“Hi”
To reset information display items1. Rotate the wheel switch to select
one of the two vehicle information
displays.
2. Press the wheel switch inward to highlight the information display.
3. Rotate the wheel switch to select the desired information display
item.
4. Press and hold the wheel switch inward until the highlighted dis-
play item is reset.
Transmission gear display
This shows which gear the transmis-
sion is in. This model has 6 gears and a
neutral position. The neutral position is
indicated by the neutral indicator
light “ ” and by the transmission gear
display “ ”. MODE
display
This display shows the currently se-
lected “D-MODE” and “TCS-MODE”
settings. The mode that is enlarged
and displayed on the right can be ad-
justed using the MODE up/down
switches. Use the “MODE” switch to
toggle left-right between “TCS-MODE”
and “D-MODE”.
See page 3-1 for information on “D-
MODE” and “TCS-MODE” settings.
TIP When the malfunction indicator
light “ ”, the auxiliary system
warning “ ”, or the coolant
temperature warning “ ” are on,
“D-MODE” and “TCS-MODE”
cannot be adjusted. 
The previously selected modes
will be displayed when the vehicle
power is turned on.
To turn off the traction control system,
select “TCS-MODE” with the “MODE”
switch, then push and hold the MODE
up switch until “OFF” is displayed. To
turn TCS back on, press the MODE
down switch (“TCS-MODE” will return
to its previous setting).TIPWhen “TCS-MODE” has been set
to “OFF”, the TCS, SCS and LIF
systems are all turned off togeth-
er.
 The “TCS-MODE OFF” and “TCS-
M OD E M ” se t ti ng s c a n o n l y b e s e -
lected while the vehicle is
stopped.Clock
The clock uses a 12-hour time system.
See page 4-17 to set the clock.
Quick shift in dicator “QS”
When able to shift, the respective QS or turns green.
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Instrument and control functions
4-16
4
BC
The brake control system has two set-
tings, BC1 and BC2. Select BC1 when
only standard ABS is desired. Select
BC2 to have the brake control system
further regulate brake pressure while
cornering to suppress lateral wheel
slip.TIPFor skilled riders and when riding at the
track, due to varying conditions, the
BC2 brake system may engage sooner
than expected relative to your desired
cornering speed or intended cornering
line.
QSThe quick shift system indicators are
divided into QS and QS sections.
QS and QS are not linked and
can be independently turned on or off.
QS can be set to ON or OFF.
OFF turns the respective upshift or
downshift function off, and the clutch
lever must then be used when shifting
in that direction.TIPIf the QSS setting cannot be changed:
turn the engine off with the gear posi-
tion set to neutral, then change the set-
ting.
“Shift In
dicator”
This module allows a custom shift indi-
cator to be set. When the engine r/min
(rotations per minute) are in the speci-
fied range, the gear indicator will flash.
This module has 3 options:
“IND Mode” - the shift indicator can be
turned ON/OFF
“IND Start” - the r/min at which the in-
dicator starts flashing can be chosen.
Once selected, rotate the wheel switch
up/down to increase or decrease the
r/min value by increments of 200 r/min.
“IND Start” is settable between 6000 -
12800 r/min.
“IND Stop” - the r/min at which the in-
dicator stops flashing can be chosen.
Once selected, rotate the wheel switch
up/down to increase or decrease the
km/h
BC Setting
BC
2
km/h
QS Setting
Q S ONQS ON
km/h
Shift Indicator
IND Mode ONIND Start 8000 r/minIND Stop 10000 r/min
UB7NE0E0.book Page 16 Friday, October 2, 2020 4:38 PM

Instrument and control functions
4-30
4
EAU84680
Lu gga ge strap hol dersUse the indicated strap points to se-
cure luggage ties to the vehicle.
EAU77390
Auxiliary DC connectorsThis vehicle is equipped with an auxil-
iary DC connector and a grip warmer
DC connector. Consult your Yamaha
dealer before installing any accesso-
ries.
EAU15306
Si destan dThe sidestand is located on the left
side of the frame. Raise the sidestand
or lower it with your foot while holding
the vehicle upright.TIPThe built-in sidestand switch is part of
the ignition circuit cut-off system,
which cuts the ignition in certain situa-
tions. (See the following section for an
explanation of the ignition circuit cut-
off system.)
WARNING
EWA10242
The vehicle must not be ri dden with
the si destan d d own, or if the si de-
stan d cannot b e properly move d up
(or does not stay up), otherwise the
si destan d coul d contact the g round
an d d istract the operator, resultin g
in a possib le loss of control.
Yamaha’s ig nition circuit cut-off
system has been desi gne d to assist
the operator in fulfillin g the respon-
si bility of raisin g the sid estand b e-
fore startin g off. Therefore, check
1. Luggage strap holder
1 1 1
UB7NE0E0.book Page 30 Friday, October 2, 2020 4:38 PM

Periodic maintenance an d a djustment
7-24
7
EAU23027
Cleanin g an d lu bricatin g the
d rive chainThe drive chain must be cleaned and
lubricated at the intervals specified in
the periodic maintenance and lubrica-
tion chart, otherwise it will quickly wear
out, especially when riding in dusty or
wet areas. Service the drive chain as
follows.NOTICE
ECA10584
The drive chain must b e lubricate d
after washin g the motorcycle, ri din g
in the rain or ri din g in wet areas.1. Clean the drive chain with a drive
chain cleaner and a small soft
brush. NOTICE: To prevent dam-
a g in g the O-rin gs, do not clean
the drive chain with steam
cleaners, hi gh-pressure wash-
ers or inappropriate solvents.
[ECA11122]
2. Wipe the drive chain dry.
3. Thoroughly lubricate the drive chain with a special O-ring chain
lubricant. NOTICE: Do not use
en gine oil or any other lu bri- cants for the d
rive chain, as they
may contain su bstances that
coul d damag e the O-rin gs.
[ECA11112] EAU23098
Checkin
g an d lu bricatin g the
ca blesThe operation of all control cables and
the condition of the cables should be
checked before each ride, and the ca-
bles and cable ends should be lubri-
cated if necessary. If a cable is
damaged or does not move smoothly,
have a Yamaha dealer check or re-
place it. WARNING! Dama ge to the
outer housin g of cab les may result
in internal rustin g an d cause inter-
ference with ca ble movement. Re-
place damag ed cab les as soon as
possi ble to prevent unsafe con di-
tions.
[EWA10712]
Recommen ded lu bricant:
Yamaha cable lubricant or other
suitable cable lubricant
UB7NE0E0.book Page 24 Friday, October 2, 2020 4:38 PM

Motorcycle care and stora ge
8-1
8
EAU37834
Matte color cautionNOTICE
ECA15193
Some mo dels are equipped with
matte colored finished parts. Be
sure to consult a Yamaha dealer for
a d vice on what prod ucts to use be-
fore cleanin g the vehicle. Usin g a
b rush, harsh chemical pro ducts or
cleanin g compoun ds when cleanin g
these parts will scratch or damag e
their surface. Wax also shoul d not
b e applie d to any matte colored fin-
ishe d parts.
EAU83443
CareFrequent, thorough cleaning of the ve-
hicle will not only enhance its appear-
ance but also will improve its general
performance and extend the useful life
of many components. Washing, clean-
ing, and polishing will also give you a
chance to inspect the condition of the
vehicle more frequently. Be sure to
wash the vehicle after riding in the rain
or near the sea, because salt is corro-
sive to metals.TIP The roads of heavy snowfall areas
may be sprayed with salt as a de-
icing method. This salt can stay on
the roads well into spring, so be
sure to wash the underside and
chassis parts after riding in such
areas.
 Genuine Yamaha care and main-
tenance products are sold under
the YAMALUBE brand in many
markets worldwide.
 See your Yamaha dealer for addi-
tional cleaning tips.
NOTICE
ECA26280
Improper cleanin g can cause cos-
metic an d mechanical damag e. Do
not use:  high-pressure washers or
steam-jet cleaners. Excessive
water pressure may cause wa-
ter seepag e and d eterioration of
wheel bearin gs, brakes, trans-
mission seals an d electrical de-
vices. Avoi d hi gh-pressure
d eter gent applications such as
those availab le in coin-operate d
car washers.
 harsh chemicals, inclu din g
stron g aci dic wheel cleaners,
especially on spoke or ma gne-
sium wheels.
 harsh chemicals, a brasive
cleanin g compoun ds, or wax on
matte-finishe d parts. Brushes
can scratch an d damag e the
matte-finish, use soft spon ge or
towel only.
 towels, spon ges, or brushes
contaminate d with a brasive
cleanin g prod ucts or stron g
UB7NE0E0.book Page 1 Friday, October 2, 2020 4:38 PM