Yamaha gave sport-touring riders in the states something to cheer with the announcement that the Tracer 9 GT would be available in 2021 (if they have deep pockets or good credit history, that is). However, another possibly more mass-appealing bike won’t be debuting here just yet. That bike is the Tracer 7 GT, which does get a refresh for the coming model year, but it will only be available in international markets.
The 7 GT is powered by the same crossplane twin that’s found in the MT-07, which has already proven itself to be a fun and capable powerplant. Plopping that mill into an upright touring motorcycle would put a lot of midsize, legacy touring rides currently available in the US, like the Versys 650 or V-Strom 650, on high alert. Especially if the bike stayed at or below $8,500.
The addition of Yamaha accessories, like side cases, a taller and wider windscreen, and an updated seat, give it some notable credentials that others in the US segment sometimes lack. Add to that the preload- and rebound-adjustable suspension front and rear, and you have a midrange sport-touring bike with options that will run you more than $9,000 at other dealerships.
Yamaha has often let models gain acclaim overseas before debuting in the states, so it’s likely we’ll see a 7 GT as soon as 2022. Particularly in light of the fact that Yamaha has given the engine platform the necessary updates to comply with Euro 5 regulations. It’ll want to make sure it squeezes as much juice from that fruit as possible.
Conjecturing aside, this is a strong platform in a segment that enjoys quite a bit of popularity in the USA. As far as I’m concerned it’s only a matter of time before we see Tracer 7 GTs in our neighborhood. It just would have been nice to see it arrive this February.
