Photo/text: OA Isdahl
Yamaha Motor Skandinavia Norge has lent us the brand new Yamaha Tracer 7 GT and we’re going to get to know the new capacities of this popular model. The new model has received a significant boost compared to the first generation, which we knew very well and which was also very good. But after a day with the new model, I can reveal that this is something completely different and the new Tracer 7 GT has without a shadow of a doubt become significantly better.
The biggest changes are related to:
- Design
- The size
- New and stiffer frame and swing arm
- New front up/down dampers
- New rear mono damper
- Ride by wire but new mapping choices
- Cruise control
- Improved ergonomics and seating position
- Larger tank
- New TFT instrument and board
- Side bags and center support
- Radial mounted four piston caliper
- New seat
- Heat holders and new and cool turn signal placement
Technical data:
Engine: Four-stroke, 2-cylinder, Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve
Displacement: 698 cc
Compression: 11.5:1
HP: 74
Nm: 68
Front wheel: 120/70 R 17
Rear wheel: 180/55 R 17
Length 2135 mm
Wheelbase: 1495 mm
Seat height: 845 – 865 mm
Wet weight: 212 kg
Tank: 18 liters
First impression and plan for the test
The Yamaha Tracer 7 GT is and has been one of the most important touring models in the mid-range. Many people have enjoyed this model for many years, and I myself have ridden it on many long trips. The model is made for the Norwegian topography and therefore thrives very well in the Norwegian landscape. The range of uses is broad and extends from everyday use, commuting, sports therapy and play or long rides on all types of surfaces. There is perhaps extra excitement about this year’s model, which has become more expensive and must therefore deliver to higher expectations. However, I can already confirm that it delivers, and by a very wide margin. The Tracer 7 GT not only matches its competitors, it outperforms them with some very special features that we only find in a very few brands. We’ll come back to that in a moment.
The test regime
As this is an important model with high expectations, I’m going to run an extended test regime for the model, which it can handle. This means that the bike will be ridden and tested thoroughly throughout its range of applications, in urban and commuter environments and it will go on a longer trip over Sognefjellet to Western Norway and slightly more demanding terrain. The different parts of the test will be published during this and next week.
So stay tuned in the coming days to get to know the new Yamaha Tracer 7 GT really well.