Who are the competitors of the Yamaha Tracer?

Rennie Scaysbrook

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| February 12,

In the world of sport touring, Yamaha and Suzuki each offer distinct motorcycles designed to cater to a similar rider demographic but with contrasting philosophies and features.

When we compare these two models—the $16,499 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ and the $14,199 Suzuki GSX-SGT+—we must acknowledge that these are two different approaches to the sport touring genre.

Photography by Kit Palmer

It’s relevant to ask whether a comparison is warranted here. While both the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ and Suzuki GSX-SGT+ are crafted for sport touring enthusiasts, they present unique experiences and features, making the comparison more nuanced than straightforward.

The Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ is the fresher model, introduced for the current model year. It steps in as the successor to the successful Tracer 9 GT. Unlike its predecessor, the GT+, retains the same engine and chassis but enhances the motorcycle’s electronics significantly, showcasing features such as radar-adaptive cruise control and a Unified Braking System (UBS). However, the usability of the associated tech, exemplified by the Garmin Motorize app, raises questions about its practicality. Why not implement Apple Car Play instead?

One motorcycle embodies the spirit of a sportbike modified for touring, while the other aligns more with a supermoto enhanced for comfort.

The Tracer 9 GT+ clearly stands out in its technology offerings. It features an upgraded six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit along with the cutting-edge KYB Actimatic Damper System (KADS), which allows for electronically controlled suspension with specified modes—A-1 for a stiffer ride suited for sporty excursions and A-2 for a softer cruise. This sophisticated setup efficiently adapts damping based on the bike’s lean angle during cornering.

Furthermore, Yamaha presents four distinct modes—Rain, Street, Sport, and Custom. Each mode adjusts various riding parameters, including traction control, slide control, wheelie control, and engine power. The Custom mode even permits the rider to personalize settings to their preference, adding an engaging aspect to the riding experience.

The impressive range of options demonstrates Yamaha's attention to rider preferences, ensuring riders can dial in their experience just right. Customizing to enable lower wheelie control for some added excitement is certainly a fun option.

When viewed alongside the Suzuki, the technology gaps become evident. The GSX-S lacks an Inertial Measurement Unit, meaning no advanced traction control, cornering ABS, or wheelie control.

The Suzuki offers basic rider assistance features, but its simplicity doesn’t detract from usability.

With manual cruise control instead of radar-assisted cruise and Suzuki’s introductory color TFT display that provides Bluetooth connectivity for mobile devices, the model lacks enhanced features. Riders can, however, leverage three engine modes and five traction control stages, alongside a highly praised quickshifter which is smoothly intuitive to use. However, the absence of electronically adjustable suspension suggests that the price difference between the two brands is justifiable.

Despite its limitations, Suzuki's simple instrumentation ensures riders have the essentials without oversaturation.

Comparing hardware reveals notable differences between the two offerings. The Yamaha harnesses the refined CP3 890cc inline-triple motor boasting 108 horsepower and 63 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Suzuki utilizes a familiar K5-derived 999cc inline four-cylinder engine generating a claimed 149 horsepower and 78 lb-ft of torque, giving Suzuki the initial edge in raw power.

However, the Yamaha compensates with a punchy delivery of torque that excels in urban settings. Its three-cylinder engine delivers robust low-down torque, enabling relaxed throttle application. This offers strong acceleration until mid-rpm. Upon reaching a certain point, the torque curve flattens; once past this hurdle, the Yamaha truly comes alive.

Fine-tuning the Yamaha's settings is facilitated via a joystick located on the left handlebar, a feature that garners mixed feelings from riders.

The Suzuki's robust power and torque lend to a calmer character, building power smoothly without the pronounced torque dip observed in the Yamaha. Despite Yamaha’s upgraded quickshifter, it falls short when compared to Suzuki’s remarkably smooth operation—a testament to the latter's engineering prowess.

Interestingly, the minimalist approach of the Suzuki’s electronics is both a relief and a point of contention. In an era dominated by sophisticated electronics, the Suzuki elects to focus on essential features rather than overwhelming riders with unnecessary options.

Yamaha’s display enhancements contribute to a more intuitive riding experience compared to the Suzuki’s traditional setup.

Yamaha's aim to streamline access to functions is noteworthy through easy navigation on the joystick. Riders who appreciate features like radar-adaptive cruise control will immediately recognize its merit on long-haul journeys, proving invaluable, especially on highways. Conversely, those favoring winding backroads may find less relevance in it.

The versatility of the Suzuki’s SDMS keeps throttle responses easy but lacks the sophistication of Yamaha's extensive options.

After years of refinement, Suzuki’s SDMS caters to varied throttle responses, though its simpler approach contrasts with the Yamaha’s customizable features that penetrate deeply into device parameters, spanning from throttle to suspension behavior. Yet, the Suzuki's KYB fork and shock are set up adequately from the factory, ensuring performance remains satisfactory despite the lack of on-the-fly adjustments.

Providing greater adaptability, Yamaha’s electronic suspension trumps Suzuki, which relies on more conventional settings.

Chassis performance demonstrates considerable divergence. The Yamaha excels as a sportbike while the Suzuki embraces its supermoto roots. The Yamaha's ergonomics empower the rider with superior cornering agility, while the Suzuki provides stability at higher speeds, making it an excellent companion for long stretches of road.

The Yamaha’s revised seat construction for enhanced comfort over long rides places the rider in a more upright position, correlating with dirt-bike-inspired ergonomics. While this encourages relaxed riding, many riders note the ineffectiveness of its windscreen, funneling airflow in ways that can become problematic.

The sportier design of the Yamaha contributes to a more natural riding position compared to Suzuki’s forward-leaning seat.

Switching gears to the Suzuki, its lower seat height and slight forward lean assist in alleviating pressure on the rider's tailbone. This design choice may lead to a more comfortable experience over long periods, presenting a natural position that engages the front tire effectively.

While the suspension on the Suzuki might be much simpler, it holds its own when pushed to the limits. Its conventional damping setup competently tackles swift, tight turns, albeit the latest Yamaha feels more sprightly.

The Yamaha demonstrates superior braking performance, with a tactile feel from the front master cylinder, contrasting the Suzuki’s somewhat wooden response—a decision that's become increasingly recognized within Suzuki's lineup. Addressing such issues should be paramount if riders are to receive an improved experience out on the roads.

The ergonomics of the Yamaha yield a favorable riding position, simplifying the rider’s journey.

The lack of heated grips in the Suzuki is another area where it comes up short. While optional in the accessory list, incorporating them as standard equipment would enhance its sport-touring appeal significantly, aligning it more closely with its competition.

Considering luggage options, Yamaha's side case setup of two 30-liter units contrasts the Suzuki’s 27.5-liter configuration. However, Yamaha’s cases, with their taller design, pose challenges accommodating certain helmet sizes, a potential inconvenience for some riders.

The taller screen on the Yamaha directs airflow in ways that can be overpowering for riders.

Conversely, Suzuki’s traditionally-wider case design accommodates various helmets more effectively, despite its bulkier appearance. Yet, this becomes a moot point if the inability to fit a helmet in the Yamaha case proves problematic.

While advantages for both brands are clear, consider how Suzuki's older design may shine brighter in practical use. The Suzuki's ease of operation combined with a comfortable ride position, smooth engine performance, and well-balanced setup create an inviting experience overall.

Ultimately, both bikes provide rewarding rides, but the best choice depends on the rider's preference.

The Yamaha, with its rich array of electronic enhancements—especially the radar-adaptive cruise control—provides a modern take on sport touring. Notably, the Suzuki may eventually follow suit with updated functionality, leading to a potential increase in price and complexity, changing the dynamics of the sport-touring scene altogether.

This comparison prompts thoughtful reflection. The sophisticated integration and electronics offered by the Yamaha are persuasive, but the Suzuki shines brightly as a dependable, accessible entry in this competitive segment. What works best is a matter of personal preference and riding style, and riders would do well to test each before making a decision.

CN

VIDEO | Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ vs Suzuki GSX-SGT+ Comparison

Suzuki GSX-S GT+ Specifications

MSRP: $14,199 Engine: Four-stroke, four-cylinder, Valvetrain: DOHC, 16-valve Cooling system: Liquid Power: 149 hp at 11,000 rpm Torque: 78 lb-ft at rpm Displacement: 999cc Bore x stroke: 73.4 x 59mm Compression ratio: 12.2:1 Fuel system: EFI, 4 x 40mm throttle bodies Exhaust: 4/2/ Transmission: 6-speed Chassis: Aluminum twin-spar Front suspension: KYB fork, fully adjustable Rear suspension: KYB shock, adjustable rebound damping and preload Front brake: Brembo Monobloc 4-piston, radially mounted caliper, 310mm disc, ABS Rear brake: Nissin 2-piston, fixed caliper, 240mm disc, ABS Front tire: 120/70 ZR17 in. Rear tire: 190/50 ZR17 in. Wheelbase: 57.5 in Seat height: 31.9 in. Fuel capacity: 5.0 gal. Weight (curb, claimed): 498 lbs.

Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ Specifications

MSRP: $16,999 Engine: Four-stroke, three-cylinder Valvetrain: DOHC, 12-valve Cooling system: Liquid Power: 108 hp at 10,000 rpm Torque: 63 lb-ft at rpm Displacement: 999cc Bore x stroke: 78 x 62.1mm Compression ratio: 11.5:1 Fuel system: EFI, YCC-T, three 41mm throttle bodies Exhaust: 3-2-1 Transmission: 6-speed Chassis: Cast aluminum Front suspension: 41 KYB electronically adjustable fork, rebound & compression, manually adj. preload Rear suspension: Single shock, electronically adj. rebound, manually adj. preload (remote) Front brake: Monobloc 4-piston, radially mounted caliper, 298mm disc, ABS Rear brake: Nissin 2-piston, fixed caliper, 267mm disc, ABS Front tire: 120/70 ZR17 in. Rear tire: 180/55 ZR17 in. Wheelbase: 59.1 in. Seat height: 32.3/32.9 in. Fuel capacity: 5.0 gal. Weight (curb, claimed): 492 lbs.

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