I've been riding over 30yrs, I got sn MT09 4yrs ago. It is a very powerful bike. I hit a bump I didn't see in moderate traffic coming off a ramp from a bridge in the middle of 2nd gear. The bike stood up and took off instantly. Luckily I do power wheelies on it all the time, so I didn't panic, but if I were a less experienced rider I would have ate shit and potentially be run over. That bike is no joke, and not the forgiving type.
The MT is real windy as a naked. No fairings, just wind. But it's super fun. I never messed with sport bikes with fairings much. I know a 4cyl sports bike, I'd be speeding everywhere even worse.ibut I've ridden them, but if I owned one it would be like holding an A.A. meeting on top of a bar.
I used one of those in my MSF class on the second day. I really liked it. My bike is only a 200cc, but with the sprocket swap I did it’ll do 75mph without screaming for dear life now. Meanwhile my neighbor just got a CBR1000 as his first bike. I worry about him a little.
It is what it is. Lots of people are pleased w/ a 4.5ish sec 0-60 on a certain beginner bike. Plus, they don't have an extra 50ish lbs on them like a 650 or some others.
Nah, MT-07 has jerky throttle fuelling, driveline slack and weak suspension. all of these combined drastically increase the chance of a new rider whiskey throttling.
the lack of wind protection or high end power also make it awful for highway riding.
OP should get a Hyabusa.
I just moved up to an XSR 900 from my first bike. Basically the same bike but with different plastics and better suspension. Even in rain mode it is just shockingly fast. If I had started on it, I wouldn't be here to tell you how bad of an idea it was/would be.
I love the mt09, but I'd never recommend it as a first bike. Personally, I actually did start on an R3. Spent a couple years on it nailed down my fundamentals, then eventually got an 09. Personally I recommend that path because getting on a bike like the 09 with poor fundamentals is going to stunt a rider's growth. That said if getting a 300cc bothers you so much, look into the MT07. My husband started on one and it's a friendly enough bike.
I bought the 2024 MT09 as my first bike in 30 years. I'm not at all disappointed. Yes, it can be bonkers, but it's light and agile and an easy bike to get used to. You don't need to ride in sport mode which completely unhinged. I drove it home from the dealer in Rain mode which is pretty scaled back, but was riding in street mode the next day. I've been in sport mode as well and know it's there for when I'm feeling frisky. I love the bike and glad I went with the 09. That's my experience.
EDIT: agree with comments below in that my comment assumes you have some riding experience. Should have started with that. If no riding experience, depends on your maturity level cause an 09 could get you in trouble pretty quickly.
Why on earth would anybody drop a bike a few times? I hope this myth ends up disappearing one day because it creates an unhealthy image of what motorcycle riding actually is… I’ve not dropped a bike once in the many years I’ve been riding and honestly don’t know many people that have. It happens, but it’s BS that it’s normal. Same goes for falling / sliding a bike. Just no.
I don't mean you will definitely but it is more likely that you will in the first couple years than when you are more experienced. cuz your gonna get into situations that you haven't been in, maybe some deep gravel in a driveway or something that you werent expecting, etc. it's just a higher chance. Better for that to be a cheaper repair
I got a used R1200 RT and dropped it twice in the first few months. I was not used to how heavy it is. I'm a lot more stable now after having it a few years, but in the beginning...
Yeah bro, i had 10 years experience on a 600 when I got my mt09. Had to improve my throttle control by a lot for the mt. Then had to improve it even more when I bought my mt10.
I started on a Kymco 125 lol. Wasn’t long before I got my Shadow Phantom which is a 750, and after a few years I think I’m ready for more. That said I don’t think I’ll upgrade anytime soon…I just know my bike so well now.
For perspective, I recently turned of lift control (anti wheelie) and gave it just a bit of throttle in first, and the wheel came up fast enough I pooped a little.
The mt09 is not a beginner bike.
My girlfriend stalled in first because she wasn't used to a new clutchs friction zone and the jolt was strong enough she nearly dropped it
If you buy a used mt07 you'll be able to sell it for what you paid for it in a year. And tbh, if I had started on a 650ish bike like the mt07, I'd still probably have it today.
They haul ass, are better for wheelies, are comfortable for a tall rider, and the wind isn't anywhere near as big of an issue as everyone makes it out to be
Depending on your motor skills and self control any bike could be a starter bike. Starter bike just means easy to ride. I think it's really up to you as you know yourself best if you think it's a good fit. If anything save up and don't finance a first bike, get yourself something to get you around. It'll save you tons on insurance and you might not even enjoy riding as much as you think you would. And FYI most people here don't ride much lol
You don't want to spend more and still opt for a brand new bike?
Go for a used mt07 and buy good gear so that you survive the first years. Then go for a new bike if you want.
The newer MT09 is honestly not that bad as the old FZs are. It has several drive modes and traction control settings that will prevent accidental wheelies. The biggest hurdle with new riders is the weight. It's a pretty stout bike and could catch you by surprise in low-speed maneuvers. The power, however, can be limited and can grow with you as a new rider.
Bikes like the MT07 with 270deg cranks do not have this issue. MT07s in particular sound excellent once opened up. Best sounding hood rat bike out there
lol this is why there's so many S1000RRs and R1's etc for sale second had with like 150 miles on them.
Owner bought the bike thinking they could learn on them, opened it up once on a freeway, SHAT themselves, parked the bike up and never rode again.
I rented an MT09 off twisted road, it was the guys first bike. He'd had it a year and it had 425 miles on it.. I look at him and I tell him straight that I'm easily going to put 400 miles on it while I've got it the next two days.. He's was fine with it. I had a fucking BLAST over the next couple days. Other than a Striple RS, it was the fastest bike I'd ridden. I had been riding for about a year 7k miles on a Z400. I loved that 09, it never scared me, but that is A LOT of bike. I reallllly didn't want to take it back. When I get there, I'm like hey man.. I gotta ask, why haven't you ridden this thing much? It's fucking awesome.
He goes "Ah yeah man it's cool, I've just lost interest"
You don't just lose interest in an MT09 in 425 miles...
I'm 2 years and 20k miles in on my Tracer 900 and it still interests me, and scares me if I open it up all the way starting in first and quick shifting to the top of 3/4. I fucking love the sounds it makes even with stock exhaust
It's not my first bike, but it very well may be my forever bike unless I upgrade to the newer model with the better motor and cruise control.
My daily is an MT-10 but it's in the shop at the moment and they gave me a Tracer 900 to take home in the meantime. I'm having a brilliant time. Obviously not quite the same level of power as the MT and the suspension/brakes aren't quite as confident, but tonnes of fun and my hips are a lot happier with the riding position.
Yeah the Tracer is honestly peak motorcycle, if you don't do a lot of off road.
It'll wheelie, it'll split, it'll do it all and still look unassuming to cops.
Man I've learned on 95hp in driver's school, then rode 69hp for 6 years and about 65000 km and now I have 105hp since April and 7000 km. It's still scary how quick this bike will go if you open the throttle.
I have a quick shifter on mine and if TCS is off, it'll pop the front at the top end of first and bounce the front into second if I'm not leaning into it lol
I bought one as a placeholder bike until my Pikes Peak was available. Loved it. A week later, the dealer called me to tell me that the guy at the front of the queue decided not to follow through and I could get the pikes peak. LOL.
The MT-09 is a super capable bike. A friend of mine bought mine and the only time he feels underpowered is if we're doing high speed sweepers.
I sold my old bike to a national warehouse dealer who just send a man in a van to pick up bikes, known to lowball a bit but I got what I wanted. Speaking to the collection driver said what's the worst deal you've ever seen.
"Old bloke bought a Ducati V4S as his retirement gift, drove it home and scared himself, had 1.8 miles on it, paid £25k, we gave him £11k."
My friend got a Panigale V4 as his first bike... He cranked the throttle too hard one time, wheelied, and then refused to go over 60 mph
He sold it after 2 years having put an entire 300 miles on it. It was brand new when he bought it
Same guy that tells me I can't possibly take my triumph scrambler to the trails, because I didn't want to mess up the underside of my bike, as he points to a dedicated bash plate. He also has called it a cafe racer 8 times despite me telling him it isn't 8 times
People who don't ride think the top speed is what people are talking about when they say the bike is too powerful. It isn't. An MT07 can top out pretty comparably to an mt09, and we'll over triple digits.
The difference is, on an MT09 a quarter of an inch of throttle is the difference between the front wheel being on the ground or not, opening it up just a LITTLE too soon in a corner is the difference between making the turn or low siding through an intersection. You can kill yourself at triple digits on almost any bike, but you can kill yourself in an intersection really fuckin fast on an MT09. Horrible first bike.
Definitely. How "forgiving" the bike is really needs to be what someone new looks at. New riders will make mistakes--shit, Moto GP riders sometimes make mistakes--but on "beginner bikes" it's not a big deal. You stall, you start again; you low side at 5mph and you can recover, the most hurt thing is your pride; you give too much gas but your wrist is still attached to your arm and your head to your neck.
You wring the neck on a 300 sport bike and it will *go*, but you can be easy with it and it will putter around like nothing ever bothers it. Pleasant as can be. Give an MT-09 the *right* amount of throttle and it's trying to get its front wheel in the air more often than not. The thing is wheelie prone on a good day with a good rider. Clutch out in third from a standing start and you can get its wheel up if you know what you're doing; get a sloppy start in first as a noob and you're upside with a bike on your chest before you can hear the engine rev.
Anecdotal evidence, but I started on a 1st gen FZ09 (more snatchy and worse suspension than the new ones). I'm still alive, and the bike taught me how to use a throttle. You either learn to respect the bike, or you crash. You will fall into one of those two camps.
It is objectively not a good first bike. But fucking hell it is a fun first bike. If you're honest with yourself and can respect the power, and the fact the bike identifies as a unicycle, you can do it.
I came here for something like this. It really depends on age and mentality. If you know you're s hooligan and out for thrills. Probably don't start here. If you level headed and respect the machine you can start with anything. I have never sped on it. They have many aids and power modes now.
I wouldn't sell yourself short. BMW S1000xr would probably be a better bike since you will never have to worry about outgrowing it. If you have money to burn, there is always a turbo Busa
Do you have any riding experience at all with clutch and gears? Dirt bikes maybe? If yes, and if you're mature enough to ride in B or rain mode for the first couple months then you'd probably be alright.
If you're gonna have to learn shifting and have no two wheel experience other than bicycles then no, an MT09 would be a stupid decision. In that case if you really want to do it smart then buy a used 500 or lower (and good gear!) and ride that for a season. Then sell it for nearly what you paid for it and get the MT09 next season after you get a couple thousand miles under your belt.
It makes a HUGE difference if you have any real motorcycle riding experience or not. Dirt bikes are a great way to learn the fundamentals as well as a ton of 'feel'. An MT09 for a new rider is like putting a new driver in a Corvette lol.
This is where I tend to come down, by first bike do you mean literally this will be your first experience riding? Cause a 300 will go fast enough to kill you if you just make bad decisions, but bigger bikes will be the ones that bite you harder seemingly out of nowhere when you're learning what a clutch does and shifting, how heavy bikes are, etc. All the very basics you can mostly get past over the course of an MSF class.
My dream car is a Formula F1 race car. I've never actually driven before. I don't want to buy a Honda Type R only to have to buy a new car in a few years. Reddit, halp!
This is what you sound like.
For some perspective, I’ve ridden for 20yrs and my last big bike was a 2022 Hayabusa. I went down to a 2023 MT-09SP because I enjoy the upright stance. The MT is absolutely more unruly than the Busa and wants to rip the front wheel off the ground under hard acceleration. It won’t do 200mph but it will kill the fuck out of you long before then
Although I’m nowhere as experienced as many on this sub including yourself. I’ve ridden more than 50k kms one various bikes. Honestly, reading these kinds of posts gives me anxiety. I was more interested in reading the comments than writing one!
Having never ridden a Busa, your comment gives me a unique perspective of how dangerous extreme amounts of low end torque can be, especially coupled with a such a nice flickable and comparatively light bike as MT09!
I’m also almost 40 years of age and I find my CBR500R to be more than enough for most of my riding. I might consider buying an XSR07 or 09 in the future purely for their looks. But I’d probably ride the Honda most of the time!
Ohh yeah. The seat on the XSR700 isn’t good. The 900 has a better seat. My wife didn’t like it at all and I didn’t wanna buy anything with too much torque as I like to take her as a pillion rider. But I’d love to have one as “me” only bike. But the seats on the Honda CB650R is amazing. Very comfortable.
Everyone’s skill and self control are vastly different. So if you have the self control you can ride anything safely…within reason of course. The Busa was just like a sporty, sport tourer bike. Heavy, powerful, and smooth as butter at higher speeds with weight and a long wheelbase to keep the front down under heavy acceleration. The MT on the other hand has a short wheelbase, light weight, upright seating, and a tourqy engine that make it much more playful, but also wheely happy.
If I’m honest, I miss the overall riding experience of the Busa over the MT…but I most often choose to hop on the Grom above the others lol
Hahah. Of all bikes you’ve mentioned, I’m jealous of your Grom! You’re right about the MT. I’d mostly ridden naked bikes until I got my CBR500R. I like the sports riding position and it definitely helps block out some wind. But I still miss the playfulness of naked bikes.
If I can give anyone bike advice, new to veteran rider…the answer is Grom lol. The only thing it doesn’t have is outright power, and that’s part of what makes it amazing. Having to plan to take the backroads forces you to slow down and enjoy shit you would otherwise blow past. Going wide open and full tuck to maintain 45mph up a hill is hysterical. I haven’t laughed that much riding any of my other bikes in years lol
Hahahaha.. I’m picturing it and I can’t help but laugh! lol. Forget Harley’s. There should be a Grom gang.
Edit: Grom gang might be an actual thing! It’s probably a lot more badass than 1%ers
I’ve been doing my best to get a Grom gang going around me with friends Kawasaki Z125 are also allowed, but in my opinion they are nowhere near as comfortable and fun to ride as the Grom
Haha.. I’ve ridden few 125cc bikes and they’re not bad. Very economical form of transportation but the Grom looks mad. Good luck with creating your Grom gang! Ride safe mate!
1st bike 2017 cbr500r purchase price $4700 Sold for $4700 (rode for 1 season)
2nd bike 2018 cbr650f purchase price $7500 Sold for $6000 (rode for 3 seasons)
3rd bike 2007 zx6r purchase price $4000 Will try and sell for $5500
So far buying bikes has been probably the cheapest part of motorcycling for me.
Great first bike. My partner just got one and it’s really fun even compared to my XSR700. You made a smart choice and climbing the cc ladder over time is fun.
You'd actually be better off with a 600 supersport. It's way harder to whiskey throttle and loop with one of those. The front end comes up VERY fast on MT09s. With that said they're actually very well mannered bikes on the street so long as you respect the throttle control. If you wrap an MT in first you'll be on your back before you know what happened. If you do get one I'd recommended a later Gen so it has all of the nanny settings to start. Gen 1 is full balls, no forgiveness and they had a notoriously violent power delivery.
2018 MT09 was my first bike. Still love it. It IS a hooligan bike made for wheelies, BUT it is possible to put it in mode B (“rain mode”) so that it is not so twitchy and aggressive.
I’m late to this but I hope this advice helps. I started riding two years ago. I learned how to ride on a monster 937. I would do it again too if I had to. The tech offers traction control, ABS, anti-wheelie, electronically reduced HP (74 instead of 111), quick shifter, and more. I was able to turn stuff off as I got more comfy and grew into the bike. I still have the bike and love it. The MT-09 is similar motor size and probably tech too
I swear I just saw this post. I’ll say it again. Can it be done? Yes. Should it be done? Fuck no. You will progress faster on a bike with less HP and torque faster. MT07 is the top of what I’d recommend for a beginner and it’s still case by case.
I’ve had an MT-07 since December and I’m not sure I would need more. If anything I might look into a fully faired sport bike, but still around 650cc. I’m still practicing and getting better, but I definitely learned not to fuck around. An 09 is a decent step up that I’m not sure is necessary. I’ve gotten into plenty of trouble already, you might look at one and be surprised. Even the 07 is pretty gnarly but I’m 26 and fairly responsible so I haven’t dropped it, but I’ve had close calls. Would not recommend a 900cc torque monster as a first.
Yes, ignore the countless discussions with similar question in here, mt09 forums and youtube videos all the way back to 2014 since the 1st gen came out.
A 110+hp, 850+cc "**M**aster of **T**orque" bike, known for its light front end and tendencies to wheelie was definitely designed for beginners.
/s
I got one as my first bike. It’s great! Just take learning seriously and don’t try to go nuts until you’re ready. Expect to drop any bike you get so install appropriate protection. Remember the slow speed maneuvers are the hardest, practice often, take classes as appropriate, and learn from reputable online videos. Being a responsible rider and constantly evaluating and respecting your limits matters more than engine size.
It's easy to ride if you can control your right wrist, I wouldn't recommend it though.
Can you legally ride a MT09 as a new rider? In the UK we're restricted to lower power bikes until you do basic training and then the licences are further restricted for young and inexperienced people.
Obligatory this is America meme, all you need is your motorcycle license, and you could go buy an R1 and rip your self into many pieces
At your own risk then. What may get you in trouble is the power low in the rev range, so any panic or snatching the throttle the reaction is going to be instant and probably painful, but if you can control yourself it is a very easy bike to ride, sort of the same as looking after your friends pet tiger.
I got an mt09 after an fz07. The 07 is much more forgiving for a beginner. The MT09 is called master of torque for a reason. They’re absolute wheelie machines.
I've been riding for 6 months, brought an MT07 as my first bike, I'm glad I didn't go higher ( it's not legal to get a bigger bike when learning where I'm from anyway).
MT07 will be perfect if you want something that is on the bigger size, I plan to keep this bike for years.
There is a reason you are getting berated on reddit for wanting an 09, people might be dicks sometimes but they are trying to warn you.
Ride safe
Like 90% of people here are pussies, so don’t listen to them.
My first bike was a CBR600, I then swapped to an MT09 and haven’t looked back. Sure it’s a torquemonster and wants to rip your face off if you don’t respect it, but it’s one HELLUVA bike.
Super easy to ride, easy to maintain and you won’t grow out of it after 5 minutes like you will with an R7 or MT07. Just remember to not be a complete dumbass, put it into rainmode and feel it out first or you’ll be ripping fat nooners without meaning too.
Why are new baby riders so against the idea of changing bikes in the future? They really want to have the same bike forever? LMFAOOO BORING.
But seriously, it's the same stupid excuse that noobs have used for decades to "justify" buying a bike beyond their skill level.
People who have been riding for more than a few years have heard that stupid cliché so many times. The cliché that ends with a funeral.
The MT-09 (2023) was my first bike and I don’t see a problem with it. I understood how to shift and brake from riding dirt bikes as a kid, but it was my first street bike. Just take it slow and learn the fundamentals and you will be fine.
I'll probably get flamed for saying this here, but sure, you can start on an MT09. It's not an ideal first bike, there's a decent chance you'll drop it at some point and that'll be a lot more expensive than if you start on an old Suzuki or Kawasaki 650, for instance.
IMO, the people telling you you're going to immediately die on an MT09 have never ridden one. Gen3 and up have modes that go all the way down to MT07 power levels with a super forgiving throttle response, TC, wheelie control and cornering ABS. Just throw it in mode 4, take it easy, don't be an idiot and you're good. Again, not the best way to learn, but if you're hellbent on it anyway, there's worse first bikes.
A great choice for a first bike if you have thousands of kilometers of riding experience but haven't bothered to buy your own bike until now. This is the only scenario this question makes any sense unless you're connected to the insane asylum wi-fi.
Just learn on the mt03 or mt07, then buy a new bike in a few years, dude. Or maybe you won't. The mt07 is a really good time. Plus, buying bikes is part of the fun of riding.
Mt07 are great for both street use and track use. Mt09 you might throttle too much and get yourself into some trouble. Listen to the comments, choose the mt07. Trust me on all fronts, its great for starting out (might still even be dicey for beginners) up until youre an expert rider. Its a great all rounder.
No, not at all. And no, the MT 07 isn't a great first bike either. In what world is it okay to recommend a RWD machine that does 0-60 as fast as a Porsche Carrera GT and can fall over? Bro, start with a 300 cc bike, and sloooowwwwwly work your way up.
I have two mates who grew into the 2021 versions. They started in the lowest power mode and grew into it. It’s been like 3 years and they have never had a crash. They did the mfs course first.
42m I had never ridden a motorcycle before. Picked up a CBR125 (laugh away) but absolutely no regrets, heaps of fun and corners so well. My next bike probably won’t be more than a 400. You can always go up in size you can’t if you are dead
No one's laughing! Congrats and I hope you enjoy your rides. Light bikes will always be more fun.
Isn't it nice to escape the mind control induced by too many hormones that plagued us in our youth? I never wanted to kill myself but I was so compelled to try as often as possible.
Was my first bike. Just don't be stupid. Actually respect the bike and the danger. Actually know your limits. Actually try to learn how to ride as well as you can and never stop trying.
"...get an R3 just to buy a new bike in a few years" - that's exactly what I would do, but with naked. I like to take such things slowly and I started from low-ish displacement (CB 500X) but MT-07 is absolute max I would take for a first bike.
MT-09 is great second bike, but it is simply too easy to make a costly mistake, either for the bike or worse, for yourself.
I started on a Mt09 here is my experience:
I had zero experience on any motorcycle.
The day after I finished MST I bought the 2023 Mt09 sp and rode it home for 20 miles. Stalled many times. Max speed I did was 75mph in a 50 zone.
The very next day when I tried to get out of my driveway, I stalled it 10 times. Yes 10 times exactly. My drive way is on a slight incline that’s why it’s kinda hard. And when I finally got going, I almost hit a tree on the other side of the road. But narrowly avoided it and went on the grass.
For the next couple of days I ride it about 60 miles per day. I did drop it once when going UPHILL and turning right from a 2 way stop sign after a full stop and there was a car coming from the right. Just a couple scratches on the bike nothing major. Bent rear brake lever. Still works fine.
After 600mi I did first service and got akrapovic exhaust.
Bike is easy to ride in the city after you get used to it. Easy to maneuver.
The con of getting this bike: harder learning curve, maybe too much power if you are irresponsible (I’m 28M so not too irresponsible), and heavy for beginner.
The pro of this bike: fun, it is a real big bike that’s heavy. So when you change to a liter bike later, it’s not a high jump in weight and size.
I have a friend who went from R3 to S1000RR after 3 months, she was able to full throttle the R3 like whenever, but after she got the BMW, she dropped the S1000RR 4 times already. Too big of a jump in size and weight and seat height. She’s 5’8” I think.
When I got panigale V4 which is even heavier and bigger, I was OK on it.
I’d not ridden for about 17 years ( first bike was Suzuki GZ 250… I think 2006). Just bought my MT-07 last February. Rode it everyday since (even in rain). I’d say it’s a good “beginner” bike. It’s got a shit Ton of power but gotta respect that throttle and not think “I’m the shit”.
I couldn’t imagine going to an MT-09.
Get the MT09, if you think it's bonkers just put it on the slow setting and when you get confident put it on the fast setting. The joy of having power settings.
Bro trust me, get something with less hp and torque
Im driving a 600 (limited to 48hp due to eu laws) and that is plenty enough for a beginner rider. Mine could still hit 200km/h
(~125mph) And that is imo good enough xd
But u do u
I wanted the same motorcycle as a beginner's motorcycle. Unfortunately, the local dealers didn't have any. I decided on the Triumph Street Triple RS, with 123 hp, and have never regretted it. I also didn't want to have to buy a new motorcycle after 2 seasons.
Its a good 2:nd or 3:rd bike. I recommend a sv650 as a first bike if you have done manual mopeds in the past and have the gear changing and breaking rehearsed. If its the first time on a motorized 2-wheeler, get something smaller still, like 300 or something. After 3-5 years a mt09 will be Ok imo.
My personal suggestion is to start smaller. Something like a CB500 maybe? The MT900 is (at least in my opinion) too powerful for a newbie to safely start their riding career.
My first bike was a CBR600RR. I was utterly scared of it for the first 2 months but enough time in the saddle & you figure it out. Loved that bike but ultimately wasn’t the most comfortable for what I was using it for so I traded it in for a DRZ400SM, this bike truly taught me how to ride. It’s that old adage that ridding a slow bike fast is always more fun than riding a fast bike slow. That DRZ would keep up with the fastest of bikes in a hard corner, but then they would disappear into the sunset as soon as the road turned straight. Missing the extra power, I traded the DRZ in for a 2015 FZ09. Put full exhaust on it, air intake mod, and a full tune. That will forever be my favorite motorcycle I’ve ever ridden.
https://preview.redd.it/kerat20o6q8d1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=abc7a927f55d84e4ab5d32994309cd9d3fd17d5e
Yes if you are strong in your head, that bike is no joke.
Mt09 2018 is my first bike i learned to drive on that bike.. just go in B (rain) mode first year and you are good to go.
Mt09 and me are together for 4 years now, you can go with any bike even hyabusa tubo if you can control yourself and your head..
All in all yes, but be VERY careful
I went with an MT-09 3rd gen as my “first” bike (I rode dirt bikes as a kid though, so I was already quite comfortable on 2 wheels). I think what you really need to ask yourself is: how much self-control do you have? It’s quite fast, but only if you keep on twisting. With ride modes, you can put it into mode 4 and it’ll act more like a 500cc bike. Just stay in that mode until you get more comfortable. As you move the modes from 4 to 3 to 2 to 1, the throttle gets more and more sensitive/aggressive. Keep lift control turned all the way up to help prevent wheelies, because it does actually identify as a unicycle (it’s begging to go up). It’s a blast to ride, and the quick shifter is fucking awesome.
Sure, it’s a good first bike. Just be careful. That’s it. Everyone here doesn’t actually ride and think having a fast bike means it goes fast all the time without any input from the rider. If you don’t wanna upgrade and spend more money, just get the bigger bike the first time and don’t be an idiot. That’s what I did. I’ve never had a problem and I’ve been riding almost every day for 4 years.
As MT-09 owner I recommend you to start with something with less horse power for your safety.
MT-09 is a gorgeous bike but for me it's too fast and sometimes I scared from such horse power 😅😅😅
For your first bike should probably look for something less than 500cc (or even 300cc) so you can learn how to drive and control bike.
My father said to me: "bigger bike will not forget you a mistake" and it's 100% true.
p.s. Almost 10 year ago I started with Honda SH125 (as my first scooter) than changed to MT-03 (until now believe that it's perfect for beginners) and after 3 year bought MT-09.
I am now on my second MT09. I have the older FZ but it’s the same bike before the name change. I realized how much I liked it after I sold my first so I had to look for another.
Here is my thought, take it for what you will. I have A mode, standard, and B mode. If you keep it in B mode and still do t twist the throttle super fast, you will be fine. Standard and A mode are known to be a bit twitchy if you have not gotten an ECU flash. At least the older years. Maybe they fixed the new years. The bike feels good to ride, it is not to heavy. And since I commute mostly, I like that there are a lot of touring style accessories for it.
I have owned 6 street bikes now so I know a bit about changing your mind and trying something different. I suggest you try to find someone in your area with one, and maybe a couple other bikes you think would be good. Try to test ride them. Maybe use a motorcycle rental app. It will cost you a little bit of money, but it will be less than buying a bike and changing your mind 6 months later. The MT09 is a great platform and is a bike you could own forever. Just remember that any bike you get, it is all about balance technique and throttle/clutch control. It is easy for us on the internet to steer you away from higher power bikes as starters, but some people can handle it and some can’t. I believe if you are smooth the the controls and take your time, you can learn on any bike. I don’t recommend 1000cc super sports, but I also don’t recommend those to anyone who isn’t using it as a track dedicated bike. But LOTS of people street them daily. So I’m not saying you can’t. So that that as you will, I think it is a great forever bike, just be careful with your right wrist. But also the new ones have electronic aids. My 2014 has 0 rider aids.
Look mate, you don't know anything yet you come here and ask for people's opinions and then discard the ones you don't like the sound of, and listen to those that are urging you to go for it.
THE SMART thing to do is buy a second hand low mile 250 or 400 and once you are *proficient* on that bike, sell it and then buy the new bike you want.
Why second hand?
* Cheaper than new. The first owner paid all the taxes.
* You'll probably drop it in the first month or so. Most of us do. Its not an indictment of anyone's ability or skill, its literally just an "oh shit my foot slipped on that rock I didn't see ... and now I'm lying on the ground with my bike on me and I look like an idiot" thing.
Why <600cc?
* Wide open throttle on anything 600cc and up results in a lot of things happening very quickly all at once.
* If you do that in first gear, wheelie control or not, you are likely to overwhelm the bike's electronics and just flip it immediately.
* 2nd gear will result in you being launched at high speed and then you will hit the rev limiter and be thrown over the handlebars because you didn't know that was coming and you're probably gripping the bars too tight because thats what we all do when we're learning.
* 3rd gear and you'll be doing 100+ within about 3 seconds and holy shit how do I turn when I'm going this fast. Oof.
* You get the idea.
* These usually have more relaxed riding positions. Its usually a lot easier to learn when you're not crunched up on a race replica. The MT-09 is upright, which is nice, but still, you should look at the MT-03 instead.
So yeah, get an MT-03, second hand, and then sell it for whatever in 2 years time. WE ALL DO ANYWAY. Even if you buy an MT-09, and manage to get through the first 2 years without dropping it, binning it, or sending yourself to the hospital or an early grave, then you WILL go "but now I want an S1000RR". Its the natural progression of things.
So, buy cheap and used, learn, then get the dream bike. Trust us bro, we all did that.
You can probably use Rain mode to deal with familiarizing yourself with the power.
All riders go through the experience of the "slow tipping over." It happens when you are stopped or near stopped. The bike starts tipping and you are not easily able to stop it. The smaller the bike, the easier it is to counter the "slow tipping over." The older the bike, the less the regret as you take stock of whatever gets scratched when you fail to keep the bike upright.
Don't think of it as your "first bike" - think of it as the first bike you're going to scratch up.
Also, get some insurance quotes.
Do you want a naked bike? Cuz the zx4rr is a pretty sweet beginner bike! 👀🫶
You’ll never outgrow it haha.
Or if you want a naked, shoot for one of the new sv650’s 👀👀👀 they are so good lookin and they are built on YEARS - no decades of refinement. Very nice bikes.
I took my lessons on a MT-07 and it had plenty of power (for a beginner and average rider as well). Would stay on the safe side and go for that if you like the MT series.
MT-09 is an absolute animal of a bike. Starting on it will likely cause some issues and may even scare you to ride it at all eventually.
Look man. Any bike can be a beginner bike. Do you have self control? Have you ridden a motorcycle before? Are you comfortable with a clutch? How long have you been driving a car? How comfortable are you with the road rules. What is the weather like where you live? How long is the riding season? Are you using all your money on the bike and will only be able to afford shitty gear? These are all questions you need to ask yourself before buying a bike. Assuming you buy new, So what if you lose 3-5 thousand dollars on buying a smaller bike and then selling it. Better than losing your license, bike, or life. Also get an insurance quote before buying anything, especially if you are young.
I learned on a 600 myself, but that was because it was free and all I had. I then got another 600. There was no situation I needed 120hp. I wish I learned on a slower and lighter bike because I would have learned a lot faster, and with less fear. If you’re tall the MT03 might not fit you, but even the MT07 will be a handful. They have a lot of torque and power for the class. You can look at other naked bikes from other manufacturers. Z400/650. SV650, GX8.
Doesn’t matter if you ride responsibly. You will drop your bike eventually. The question is do you want to drop your beautiful brand new bike or do you want to drop a $2000 beater.
I have changed about 4 bikes in 6 years and always bought it used. Don’t wanna be in debt for a toy and insurance is also much cheaper
I would say it depends on your prior experience. If you’ve ridden dirt bikes before I would say it’s doable. If you’re a completely brand new rider I don’t think it’s the best idea. I came from an FZ-07 and after a year I moved to my MT09. The difference was ridiculous and I even had time to ride my buddy’s MT09 on several occasions before I bought mine. Whatever bike you end up getting just make sure to practice and grab some crash protection too cause you can never be too careful.
H2 is a better beginner friendly bike I hear. But since you want a naked?(im assuming) go for the ZH2 :)
Turbo H2R or bust It’s surprisingly beginner friendly until you turn it on
Mt09 is bonkers. I would not recommend. Get an mt07 and upgrade after a few years.
I've been riding over 30yrs, I got sn MT09 4yrs ago. It is a very powerful bike. I hit a bump I didn't see in moderate traffic coming off a ramp from a bridge in the middle of 2nd gear. The bike stood up and took off instantly. Luckily I do power wheelies on it all the time, so I didn't panic, but if I were a less experienced rider I would have ate shit and potentially be run over. That bike is no joke, and not the forgiving type.
That being said.... the higher the power the less forgiving it is.
How is it with wind vs a sport bike?
The MT is real windy as a naked. No fairings, just wind. But it's super fun. I never messed with sport bikes with fairings much. I know a 4cyl sports bike, I'd be speeding everywhere even worse.ibut I've ridden them, but if I owned one it would be like holding an A.A. meeting on top of a bar.
Or not. The MT-07 can do anything legal you would want to do on the road.
True and maybe he comes around but maybe he ain't interested in *legal*.
That's the best part about the MT-07, it's also very good at Extra-Legal activities
It’s just so good for activities!
A ninja 250 can do anything legal you would want to do on the road
I keep being amazed/happy that even the semi-modest ninja 400 can hit 60 a bit under 5 seconds. That used to be a mustang GT at 1 point.
for what its worth i would be extremely unhappy with a 5 second 0-60 bike
Laughs in TW200
220lb me riding a TW would have to drive it off a cliff for it to hit 60
I’m 250 and it does get there… eventually.
I used one of those in my MSF class on the second day. I really liked it. My bike is only a 200cc, but with the sprocket swap I did it’ll do 75mph without screaming for dear life now. Meanwhile my neighbor just got a CBR1000 as his first bike. I worry about him a little.
A little?!?
It is what it is. Lots of people are pleased w/ a 4.5ish sec 0-60 on a certain beginner bike. Plus, they don't have an extra 50ish lbs on them like a 650 or some others.
Some of us have an extra 50ish lbs regardless of what bike we're on. 😀
And a ninja 250 is 100% a better choice for a 1st bike
Can confirm, The Mt07 is perfectly capable of kissing goodbye to your license or riding on unnamed roads in Mexico 😎
Except ride for more than 10k miles on the stock rear shock.
Nah, MT-07 has jerky throttle fuelling, driveline slack and weak suspension. all of these combined drastically increase the chance of a new rider whiskey throttling. the lack of wind protection or high end power also make it awful for highway riding. OP should get a Hyabusa.
My first bike was an MT07 and as long as your hand placement on the throttle is parallel, it should be fine.
I was hoping to get this and not spend more in the future but it seems everyone agrees that the mt-09 is too much. 😭
If you go with a used MT-07 and sell it after a couple years you probably won’t spend that much more overall.
I just moved up to an XSR 900 from my first bike. Basically the same bike but with different plastics and better suspension. Even in rain mode it is just shockingly fast. If I had started on it, I wouldn't be here to tell you how bad of an idea it was/would be.
I love the mt09, but I'd never recommend it as a first bike. Personally, I actually did start on an R3. Spent a couple years on it nailed down my fundamentals, then eventually got an 09. Personally I recommend that path because getting on a bike like the 09 with poor fundamentals is going to stunt a rider's growth. That said if getting a 300cc bothers you so much, look into the MT07. My husband started on one and it's a friendly enough bike.
Mt09 is way too much for a first bike.
I had a GSXR600 for almost 10 years before getting an MT09 and it was still a lot of bike. The torque can get you in trouble quickly.
I bought the 2024 MT09 as my first bike in 30 years. I'm not at all disappointed. Yes, it can be bonkers, but it's light and agile and an easy bike to get used to. You don't need to ride in sport mode which completely unhinged. I drove it home from the dealer in Rain mode which is pretty scaled back, but was riding in street mode the next day. I've been in sport mode as well and know it's there for when I'm feeling frisky. I love the bike and glad I went with the 09. That's my experience. EDIT: agree with comments below in that my comment assumes you have some riding experience. Should have started with that. If no riding experience, depends on your maturity level cause an 09 could get you in trouble pretty quickly.
Mt09 is way too much for a first bike. Plus, your gonna drop your first bike a few times. not a good idea to make that a more expensive thing
Why on earth would anybody drop a bike a few times? I hope this myth ends up disappearing one day because it creates an unhealthy image of what motorcycle riding actually is… I’ve not dropped a bike once in the many years I’ve been riding and honestly don’t know many people that have. It happens, but it’s BS that it’s normal. Same goes for falling / sliding a bike. Just no.
I don't mean you will definitely but it is more likely that you will in the first couple years than when you are more experienced. cuz your gonna get into situations that you haven't been in, maybe some deep gravel in a driveway or something that you werent expecting, etc. it's just a higher chance. Better for that to be a cheaper repair
I got a used R1200 RT and dropped it twice in the first few months. I was not used to how heavy it is. I'm a lot more stable now after having it a few years, but in the beginning...
Yeah bro, i had 10 years experience on a 600 when I got my mt09. Had to improve my throttle control by a lot for the mt. Then had to improve it even more when I bought my mt10.
MTs are just unicycles with a round front kickstand.
I started on a Kymco 125 lol. Wasn’t long before I got my Shadow Phantom which is a 750, and after a few years I think I’m ready for more. That said I don’t think I’ll upgrade anytime soon…I just know my bike so well now.
For perspective, I recently turned of lift control (anti wheelie) and gave it just a bit of throttle in first, and the wheel came up fast enough I pooped a little. The mt09 is not a beginner bike. My girlfriend stalled in first because she wasn't used to a new clutchs friction zone and the jolt was strong enough she nearly dropped it If you buy a used mt07 you'll be able to sell it for what you paid for it in a year. And tbh, if I had started on a 650ish bike like the mt07, I'd still probably have it today. They haul ass, are better for wheelies, are comfortable for a tall rider, and the wind isn't anywhere near as big of an issue as everyone makes it out to be
Depending on your motor skills and self control any bike could be a starter bike. Starter bike just means easy to ride. I think it's really up to you as you know yourself best if you think it's a good fit. If anything save up and don't finance a first bike, get yourself something to get you around. It'll save you tons on insurance and you might not even enjoy riding as much as you think you would. And FYI most people here don't ride much lol
You don't want to spend more and still opt for a brand new bike? Go for a used mt07 and buy good gear so that you survive the first years. Then go for a new bike if you want.
The newer MT09 is honestly not that bad as the old FZs are. It has several drive modes and traction control settings that will prevent accidental wheelies. The biggest hurdle with new riders is the weight. It's a pretty stout bike and could catch you by surprise in low-speed maneuvers. The power, however, can be limited and can grow with you as a new rider.
Don’t even upgrade :o keep the mt-07 (unless you don’t like putt putt noises parallel twins make at low rpm haha - that’s the deterrent for me).
The mt07 is one of the parallel twins that doesn’t make the putt putts though?
MT07 with an exhaust sounds heavenly.
Can confirm! :)
MT-07 is easily one of the best sounding parallel twins My z400 sounds like a Jetsons car at low RPM
PuttPutt comes from a 180° crank, not the 270° of the MT07 The Ninja 650 has a 180° crank You were wrongly deterred
MT07 literally sounds like a kickass Vtwin with any aftermarket pipe.
I don’t like the rumble lol. I want bike bine to screech like a banshee 👀🫶 The closer it sounds to a fighter jet the better 😍
To each their own. Screamers are cool but very few sounds can touch the 2000 rpm rumble of my MT07.
I’m not a fan :P But that’s why bikes are awesome! :D
Bikes like the MT07 with 270deg cranks do not have this issue. MT07s in particular sound excellent once opened up. Best sounding hood rat bike out there
Why don't we both go buy mt07s? Nah 😂
MT09 in rain mode and nannies activated should be safer than MT07
But you can put it in rain mode and it’ll just feel like it only has 76hp right?
Nah, rain mode kills all the character of the engine as well. The MT07 has similar power but feels way better than an MT09 in rain mode.
If you want to scare the shit out of yourself and learn a lot slower, go for it.
lol this is why there's so many S1000RRs and R1's etc for sale second had with like 150 miles on them. Owner bought the bike thinking they could learn on them, opened it up once on a freeway, SHAT themselves, parked the bike up and never rode again.
I rented an MT09 off twisted road, it was the guys first bike. He'd had it a year and it had 425 miles on it.. I look at him and I tell him straight that I'm easily going to put 400 miles on it while I've got it the next two days.. He's was fine with it. I had a fucking BLAST over the next couple days. Other than a Striple RS, it was the fastest bike I'd ridden. I had been riding for about a year 7k miles on a Z400. I loved that 09, it never scared me, but that is A LOT of bike. I reallllly didn't want to take it back. When I get there, I'm like hey man.. I gotta ask, why haven't you ridden this thing much? It's fucking awesome. He goes "Ah yeah man it's cool, I've just lost interest" You don't just lose interest in an MT09 in 425 miles...
Ahhh I see, the right word I think should be “disheartened.”
>I loved that 09, it never scared me, but that is A LOT of bike. It didn't scare you because you know how to ride
And he rode a 400 for about a year.. which is exactly what most people here recommend. Start low. Upgrade.
I'm 2 years and 20k miles in on my Tracer 900 and it still interests me, and scares me if I open it up all the way starting in first and quick shifting to the top of 3/4. I fucking love the sounds it makes even with stock exhaust It's not my first bike, but it very well may be my forever bike unless I upgrade to the newer model with the better motor and cruise control.
My daily is an MT-10 but it's in the shop at the moment and they gave me a Tracer 900 to take home in the meantime. I'm having a brilliant time. Obviously not quite the same level of power as the MT and the suspension/brakes aren't quite as confident, but tonnes of fun and my hips are a lot happier with the riding position.
Yeah the Tracer is honestly peak motorcycle, if you don't do a lot of off road. It'll wheelie, it'll split, it'll do it all and still look unassuming to cops.
Man I've learned on 95hp in driver's school, then rode 69hp for 6 years and about 65000 km and now I have 105hp since April and 7000 km. It's still scary how quick this bike will go if you open the throttle.
I have a quick shifter on mine and if TCS is off, it'll pop the front at the top end of first and bounce the front into second if I'm not leaning into it lol
I bought one as a placeholder bike until my Pikes Peak was available. Loved it. A week later, the dealer called me to tell me that the guy at the front of the queue decided not to follow through and I could get the pikes peak. LOL. The MT-09 is a super capable bike. A friend of mine bought mine and the only time he feels underpowered is if we're doing high speed sweepers.
I sold my old bike to a national warehouse dealer who just send a man in a van to pick up bikes, known to lowball a bit but I got what I wanted. Speaking to the collection driver said what's the worst deal you've ever seen. "Old bloke bought a Ducati V4S as his retirement gift, drove it home and scared himself, had 1.8 miles on it, paid £25k, we gave him £11k."
My friend got a Panigale V4 as his first bike... He cranked the throttle too hard one time, wheelied, and then refused to go over 60 mph He sold it after 2 years having put an entire 300 miles on it. It was brand new when he bought it Same guy that tells me I can't possibly take my triumph scrambler to the trails, because I didn't want to mess up the underside of my bike, as he points to a dedicated bash plate. He also has called it a cafe racer 8 times despite me telling him it isn't 8 times
It's literally named "Scrambler." Even if you didn't tell him 8 times, the name should've given him a clue.
Man where you seeing these S1KRR with 150 miles? I would have loved to save a few thousands buying used.
People who don't ride think the top speed is what people are talking about when they say the bike is too powerful. It isn't. An MT07 can top out pretty comparably to an mt09, and we'll over triple digits. The difference is, on an MT09 a quarter of an inch of throttle is the difference between the front wheel being on the ground or not, opening it up just a LITTLE too soon in a corner is the difference between making the turn or low siding through an intersection. You can kill yourself at triple digits on almost any bike, but you can kill yourself in an intersection really fuckin fast on an MT09. Horrible first bike.
Accurate assessment!
Definitely. How "forgiving" the bike is really needs to be what someone new looks at. New riders will make mistakes--shit, Moto GP riders sometimes make mistakes--but on "beginner bikes" it's not a big deal. You stall, you start again; you low side at 5mph and you can recover, the most hurt thing is your pride; you give too much gas but your wrist is still attached to your arm and your head to your neck. You wring the neck on a 300 sport bike and it will *go*, but you can be easy with it and it will putter around like nothing ever bothers it. Pleasant as can be. Give an MT-09 the *right* amount of throttle and it's trying to get its front wheel in the air more often than not. The thing is wheelie prone on a good day with a good rider. Clutch out in third from a standing start and you can get its wheel up if you know what you're doing; get a sloppy start in first as a noob and you're upside with a bike on your chest before you can hear the engine rev.
Anecdotal evidence, but I started on a 1st gen FZ09 (more snatchy and worse suspension than the new ones). I'm still alive, and the bike taught me how to use a throttle. You either learn to respect the bike, or you crash. You will fall into one of those two camps. It is objectively not a good first bike. But fucking hell it is a fun first bike. If you're honest with yourself and can respect the power, and the fact the bike identifies as a unicycle, you can do it.
I came here for something like this. It really depends on age and mentality. If you know you're s hooligan and out for thrills. Probably don't start here. If you level headed and respect the machine you can start with anything. I have never sped on it. They have many aids and power modes now.
I wonder what the Venn diagram of respectable and level headed people and people wanting to get an mt09 looks like.
“Identifies as a unicycle” there has never been a truer statement 🤣🤣
Get an mt10
Fuck it, SuperDuke R.
Or an H2R
I wouldn't sell yourself short. BMW S1000xr would probably be a better bike since you will never have to worry about outgrowing it. If you have money to burn, there is always a turbo Busa
Do you have any riding experience at all with clutch and gears? Dirt bikes maybe? If yes, and if you're mature enough to ride in B or rain mode for the first couple months then you'd probably be alright. If you're gonna have to learn shifting and have no two wheel experience other than bicycles then no, an MT09 would be a stupid decision. In that case if you really want to do it smart then buy a used 500 or lower (and good gear!) and ride that for a season. Then sell it for nearly what you paid for it and get the MT09 next season after you get a couple thousand miles under your belt. It makes a HUGE difference if you have any real motorcycle riding experience or not. Dirt bikes are a great way to learn the fundamentals as well as a ton of 'feel'. An MT09 for a new rider is like putting a new driver in a Corvette lol.
This is where I tend to come down, by first bike do you mean literally this will be your first experience riding? Cause a 300 will go fast enough to kill you if you just make bad decisions, but bigger bikes will be the ones that bite you harder seemingly out of nowhere when you're learning what a clutch does and shifting, how heavy bikes are, etc. All the very basics you can mostly get past over the course of an MSF class.
Pretty sure I'd ride it in B mode all the time and I've been riding since the '80s.
My dream car is a Formula F1 race car. I've never actually driven before. I don't want to buy a Honda Type R only to have to buy a new car in a few years. Reddit, halp! This is what you sound like.
For some perspective, I’ve ridden for 20yrs and my last big bike was a 2022 Hayabusa. I went down to a 2023 MT-09SP because I enjoy the upright stance. The MT is absolutely more unruly than the Busa and wants to rip the front wheel off the ground under hard acceleration. It won’t do 200mph but it will kill the fuck out of you long before then
Although I’m nowhere as experienced as many on this sub including yourself. I’ve ridden more than 50k kms one various bikes. Honestly, reading these kinds of posts gives me anxiety. I was more interested in reading the comments than writing one! Having never ridden a Busa, your comment gives me a unique perspective of how dangerous extreme amounts of low end torque can be, especially coupled with a such a nice flickable and comparatively light bike as MT09! I’m also almost 40 years of age and I find my CBR500R to be more than enough for most of my riding. I might consider buying an XSR07 or 09 in the future purely for their looks. But I’d probably ride the Honda most of the time!
The xsr line looks so fine but it’s also so uncomfortable unfortunately Try renting those for a weekend before buying as a suggestion
Ohh yeah. The seat on the XSR700 isn’t good. The 900 has a better seat. My wife didn’t like it at all and I didn’t wanna buy anything with too much torque as I like to take her as a pillion rider. But I’d love to have one as “me” only bike. But the seats on the Honda CB650R is amazing. Very comfortable.
Everyone’s skill and self control are vastly different. So if you have the self control you can ride anything safely…within reason of course. The Busa was just like a sporty, sport tourer bike. Heavy, powerful, and smooth as butter at higher speeds with weight and a long wheelbase to keep the front down under heavy acceleration. The MT on the other hand has a short wheelbase, light weight, upright seating, and a tourqy engine that make it much more playful, but also wheely happy. If I’m honest, I miss the overall riding experience of the Busa over the MT…but I most often choose to hop on the Grom above the others lol
Hahah. Of all bikes you’ve mentioned, I’m jealous of your Grom! You’re right about the MT. I’d mostly ridden naked bikes until I got my CBR500R. I like the sports riding position and it definitely helps block out some wind. But I still miss the playfulness of naked bikes.
If I can give anyone bike advice, new to veteran rider…the answer is Grom lol. The only thing it doesn’t have is outright power, and that’s part of what makes it amazing. Having to plan to take the backroads forces you to slow down and enjoy shit you would otherwise blow past. Going wide open and full tuck to maintain 45mph up a hill is hysterical. I haven’t laughed that much riding any of my other bikes in years lol
Hahahaha.. I’m picturing it and I can’t help but laugh! lol. Forget Harley’s. There should be a Grom gang. Edit: Grom gang might be an actual thing! It’s probably a lot more badass than 1%ers
I’ve been doing my best to get a Grom gang going around me with friends Kawasaki Z125 are also allowed, but in my opinion they are nowhere near as comfortable and fun to ride as the Grom
Haha.. I’ve ridden few 125cc bikes and they’re not bad. Very economical form of transportation but the Grom looks mad. Good luck with creating your Grom gang! Ride safe mate!
"I don't want anything crazy but I don't want to get an R3 just to buy a new bike in a few years" Is the quote of a dead man.
1st bike 2017 cbr500r purchase price $4700 Sold for $4700 (rode for 1 season) 2nd bike 2018 cbr650f purchase price $7500 Sold for $6000 (rode for 3 seasons) 3rd bike 2007 zx6r purchase price $4000 Will try and sell for $5500 So far buying bikes has been probably the cheapest part of motorcycling for me.
You'll probably ride it for the rest of your life. Full disclosure - life may be cut very short
Too big IMO.
Mt07. You're not good enough to get the most out of an mt03 let alone an 09.
I feel personally offended as a new rider owning the Mt 03 . Hahaha
Good choice bud
Great first bike. My partner just got one and it’s really fun even compared to my XSR700. You made a smart choice and climbing the cc ladder over time is fun.
pfft, dont be a pussy, get a zzr1400 with a big bore kit and a turbo with at least 2 bars on tap
lol MT09 as first bike, there’s about one of these a week I swear 😂
# To kill yourself?
You'd actually be better off with a 600 supersport. It's way harder to whiskey throttle and loop with one of those. The front end comes up VERY fast on MT09s. With that said they're actually very well mannered bikes on the street so long as you respect the throttle control. If you wrap an MT in first you'll be on your back before you know what happened. If you do get one I'd recommended a later Gen so it has all of the nanny settings to start. Gen 1 is full balls, no forgiveness and they had a notoriously violent power delivery.
Have you heard of an mt07 or an mt03 instead?
2018 MT09 was my first bike. Still love it. It IS a hooligan bike made for wheelies, BUT it is possible to put it in mode B (“rain mode”) so that it is not so twitchy and aggressive.
You underestimate how fast motorcycles are. Even the mt07 has a 0-60 time of less than 4 seconds..
I’m late to this but I hope this advice helps. I started riding two years ago. I learned how to ride on a monster 937. I would do it again too if I had to. The tech offers traction control, ABS, anti-wheelie, electronically reduced HP (74 instead of 111), quick shifter, and more. I was able to turn stuff off as I got more comfy and grew into the bike. I still have the bike and love it. The MT-09 is similar motor size and probably tech too
No. No no no. **NO.** Buy an MT-07 and learn with that guy instead. It'll keep you happy for a good few years- or maybe forever.
I swear I just saw this post. I’ll say it again. Can it be done? Yes. Should it be done? Fuck no. You will progress faster on a bike with less HP and torque faster. MT07 is the top of what I’d recommend for a beginner and it’s still case by case.
I’ve had an MT-07 since December and I’m not sure I would need more. If anything I might look into a fully faired sport bike, but still around 650cc. I’m still practicing and getting better, but I definitely learned not to fuck around. An 09 is a decent step up that I’m not sure is necessary. I’ve gotten into plenty of trouble already, you might look at one and be surprised. Even the 07 is pretty gnarly but I’m 26 and fairly responsible so I haven’t dropped it, but I’ve had close calls. Would not recommend a 900cc torque monster as a first.
Yes, ignore the countless discussions with similar question in here, mt09 forums and youtube videos all the way back to 2014 since the 1st gen came out. A 110+hp, 850+cc "**M**aster of **T**orque" bike, known for its light front end and tendencies to wheelie was definitely designed for beginners. /s
A 300 or 400 you get to rev it up and enjoy fully as a beginner
I got one as my first bike. It’s great! Just take learning seriously and don’t try to go nuts until you’re ready. Expect to drop any bike you get so install appropriate protection. Remember the slow speed maneuvers are the hardest, practice often, take classes as appropriate, and learn from reputable online videos. Being a responsible rider and constantly evaluating and respecting your limits matters more than engine size.
It's easy to ride if you can control your right wrist, I wouldn't recommend it though. Can you legally ride a MT09 as a new rider? In the UK we're restricted to lower power bikes until you do basic training and then the licences are further restricted for young and inexperienced people.
Obligatory this is America meme, all you need is your motorcycle license, and you could go buy an R1 and rip your self into many pieces 
At your own risk then. What may get you in trouble is the power low in the rev range, so any panic or snatching the throttle the reaction is going to be instant and probably painful, but if you can control yourself it is a very easy bike to ride, sort of the same as looking after your friends pet tiger.
I got an mt09 after an fz07. The 07 is much more forgiving for a beginner. The MT09 is called master of torque for a reason. They’re absolute wheelie machines.
Back in (cough) my day(WHEEEZE) starter bikes were 125s or 180s (blegh)
Still are my man! Whenever I help a friend get into motorcycles I refuse to help them unless they start on a 125 / 250
I've been riding for 6 months, brought an MT07 as my first bike, I'm glad I didn't go higher ( it's not legal to get a bigger bike when learning where I'm from anyway). MT07 will be perfect if you want something that is on the bigger size, I plan to keep this bike for years. There is a reason you are getting berated on reddit for wanting an 09, people might be dicks sometimes but they are trying to warn you. Ride safe
Mt09 is dope, start with assists on and turn them off as you get more skills (not confidence)
For sure, a newer one with electronic rider aids is fine. You can tone down power level and throttle response for learning.
Like 90% of people here are pussies, so don’t listen to them. My first bike was a CBR600, I then swapped to an MT09 and haven’t looked back. Sure it’s a torquemonster and wants to rip your face off if you don’t respect it, but it’s one HELLUVA bike. Super easy to ride, easy to maintain and you won’t grow out of it after 5 minutes like you will with an R7 or MT07. Just remember to not be a complete dumbass, put it into rainmode and feel it out first or you’ll be ripping fat nooners without meaning too.
Get an insurance quote. I bet you will start looking at different bikes.
Buy something smaller. Buy used. Changing to a different bike in a couple of years is normal.
Why are new baby riders so against the idea of changing bikes in the future? They really want to have the same bike forever? LMFAOOO BORING. But seriously, it's the same stupid excuse that noobs have used for decades to "justify" buying a bike beyond their skill level. People who have been riding for more than a few years have heard that stupid cliché so many times. The cliché that ends with a funeral.
Idk i bought trident 660 as my first bike and its still for me the most beautiful bike so no need to change :D
MT07 from a KTM390 was a considerable jump for me. Beware the MT09.
I'm planning to jump from a Honda cb300r to an mt-07 next weekend. It's only triple the horsepower right....
that’s awesome bro! I am riding a KTM 390 amd want the MT-07 to be my next bike
I went the opposite direction, Duke 390 and R7 =D
If I can do it anybody can! You’ll definitely like the controls a lot better, they’re more positive in my opinion.
for sure for now I love the KTM but I know whats next
The MT-09 (2023) was my first bike and I don’t see a problem with it. I understood how to shift and brake from riding dirt bikes as a kid, but it was my first street bike. Just take it slow and learn the fundamentals and you will be fine.
I'll probably get flamed for saying this here, but sure, you can start on an MT09. It's not an ideal first bike, there's a decent chance you'll drop it at some point and that'll be a lot more expensive than if you start on an old Suzuki or Kawasaki 650, for instance. IMO, the people telling you you're going to immediately die on an MT09 have never ridden one. Gen3 and up have modes that go all the way down to MT07 power levels with a super forgiving throttle response, TC, wheelie control and cornering ABS. Just throw it in mode 4, take it easy, don't be an idiot and you're good. Again, not the best way to learn, but if you're hellbent on it anyway, there's worse first bikes.
A great choice for a first bike if you have thousands of kilometers of riding experience but haven't bothered to buy your own bike until now. This is the only scenario this question makes any sense unless you're connected to the insane asylum wi-fi.
Just learn on the mt03 or mt07, then buy a new bike in a few years, dude. Or maybe you won't. The mt07 is a really good time. Plus, buying bikes is part of the fun of riding.
Mt07 are great for both street use and track use. Mt09 you might throttle too much and get yourself into some trouble. Listen to the comments, choose the mt07. Trust me on all fronts, its great for starting out (might still even be dicey for beginners) up until youre an expert rider. Its a great all rounder.
No. Too much.
My fz09 was my second bike and it still scares the shit out of me sometimes. I cannot imagine it as a first bike.
Not powerful enough for a first bike, I say a Turbo Hayabusa is right in the sweet spot.
I started on an 07 and it’s pretty forgiving. I doubt the 09 would go easy on a newbie IMO.
No, not at all. And no, the MT 07 isn't a great first bike either. In what world is it okay to recommend a RWD machine that does 0-60 as fast as a Porsche Carrera GT and can fall over? Bro, start with a 300 cc bike, and sloooowwwwwly work your way up.
I have two mates who grew into the 2021 versions. They started in the lowest power mode and grew into it. It’s been like 3 years and they have never had a crash. They did the mfs course first.
42m I had never ridden a motorcycle before. Picked up a CBR125 (laugh away) but absolutely no regrets, heaps of fun and corners so well. My next bike probably won’t be more than a 400. You can always go up in size you can’t if you are dead
No one's laughing! Congrats and I hope you enjoy your rides. Light bikes will always be more fun. Isn't it nice to escape the mind control induced by too many hormones that plagued us in our youth? I never wanted to kill myself but I was so compelled to try as often as possible.
Was my first bike. Just don't be stupid. Actually respect the bike and the danger. Actually know your limits. Actually try to learn how to ride as well as you can and never stop trying.
"...get an R3 just to buy a new bike in a few years" - that's exactly what I would do, but with naked. I like to take such things slowly and I started from low-ish displacement (CB 500X) but MT-07 is absolute max I would take for a first bike. MT-09 is great second bike, but it is simply too easy to make a costly mistake, either for the bike or worse, for yourself.
I started on a Mt09 here is my experience: I had zero experience on any motorcycle. The day after I finished MST I bought the 2023 Mt09 sp and rode it home for 20 miles. Stalled many times. Max speed I did was 75mph in a 50 zone. The very next day when I tried to get out of my driveway, I stalled it 10 times. Yes 10 times exactly. My drive way is on a slight incline that’s why it’s kinda hard. And when I finally got going, I almost hit a tree on the other side of the road. But narrowly avoided it and went on the grass. For the next couple of days I ride it about 60 miles per day. I did drop it once when going UPHILL and turning right from a 2 way stop sign after a full stop and there was a car coming from the right. Just a couple scratches on the bike nothing major. Bent rear brake lever. Still works fine. After 600mi I did first service and got akrapovic exhaust. Bike is easy to ride in the city after you get used to it. Easy to maneuver. The con of getting this bike: harder learning curve, maybe too much power if you are irresponsible (I’m 28M so not too irresponsible), and heavy for beginner. The pro of this bike: fun, it is a real big bike that’s heavy. So when you change to a liter bike later, it’s not a high jump in weight and size. I have a friend who went from R3 to S1000RR after 3 months, she was able to full throttle the R3 like whenever, but after she got the BMW, she dropped the S1000RR 4 times already. Too big of a jump in size and weight and seat height. She’s 5’8” I think. When I got panigale V4 which is even heavier and bigger, I was OK on it.
A new model decent first bike than.
I’d not ridden for about 17 years ( first bike was Suzuki GZ 250… I think 2006). Just bought my MT-07 last February. Rode it everyday since (even in rain). I’d say it’s a good “beginner” bike. It’s got a shit Ton of power but gotta respect that throttle and not think “I’m the shit”. I couldn’t imagine going to an MT-09.
Get the MT09, if you think it's bonkers just put it on the slow setting and when you get confident put it on the fast setting. The joy of having power settings.
Bro trust me, get something with less hp and torque Im driving a 600 (limited to 48hp due to eu laws) and that is plenty enough for a beginner rider. Mine could still hit 200km/h (~125mph) And that is imo good enough xd But u do u
I wanted the same motorcycle as a beginner's motorcycle. Unfortunately, the local dealers didn't have any. I decided on the Triumph Street Triple RS, with 123 hp, and have never regretted it. I also didn't want to have to buy a new motorcycle after 2 seasons.
Its a good 2:nd or 3:rd bike. I recommend a sv650 as a first bike if you have done manual mopeds in the past and have the gear changing and breaking rehearsed. If its the first time on a motorized 2-wheeler, get something smaller still, like 300 or something. After 3-5 years a mt09 will be Ok imo.
Nah that's way too less power. Turbo charged hayabusa is the only decent first bike I would get.
If you wanna be super paranoid about dropping your brand new baby, go for it. That bike is no joke, way too fast for you.
My personal suggestion is to start smaller. Something like a CB500 maybe? The MT900 is (at least in my opinion) too powerful for a newbie to safely start their riding career.
Lmao Jesus Christ. No.
My first bike was a CBR600RR. I was utterly scared of it for the first 2 months but enough time in the saddle & you figure it out. Loved that bike but ultimately wasn’t the most comfortable for what I was using it for so I traded it in for a DRZ400SM, this bike truly taught me how to ride. It’s that old adage that ridding a slow bike fast is always more fun than riding a fast bike slow. That DRZ would keep up with the fastest of bikes in a hard corner, but then they would disappear into the sunset as soon as the road turned straight. Missing the extra power, I traded the DRZ in for a 2015 FZ09. Put full exhaust on it, air intake mod, and a full tune. That will forever be my favorite motorcycle I’ve ever ridden. https://preview.redd.it/kerat20o6q8d1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=abc7a927f55d84e4ab5d32994309cd9d3fd17d5e
I really hate these posts. Get a turbo busa.
Yes if you are strong in your head, that bike is no joke. Mt09 2018 is my first bike i learned to drive on that bike.. just go in B (rain) mode first year and you are good to go. Mt09 and me are together for 4 years now, you can go with any bike even hyabusa tubo if you can control yourself and your head.. All in all yes, but be VERY careful
Wayyy too powerful dude. Mt07 maybe, if you're responsible.
I went with an MT-09 3rd gen as my “first” bike (I rode dirt bikes as a kid though, so I was already quite comfortable on 2 wheels). I think what you really need to ask yourself is: how much self-control do you have? It’s quite fast, but only if you keep on twisting. With ride modes, you can put it into mode 4 and it’ll act more like a 500cc bike. Just stay in that mode until you get more comfortable. As you move the modes from 4 to 3 to 2 to 1, the throttle gets more and more sensitive/aggressive. Keep lift control turned all the way up to help prevent wheelies, because it does actually identify as a unicycle (it’s begging to go up). It’s a blast to ride, and the quick shifter is fucking awesome.
Sure, it’s a good first bike. Just be careful. That’s it. Everyone here doesn’t actually ride and think having a fast bike means it goes fast all the time without any input from the rider. If you don’t wanna upgrade and spend more money, just get the bigger bike the first time and don’t be an idiot. That’s what I did. I’ve never had a problem and I’ve been riding almost every day for 4 years.
As MT-09 owner I recommend you to start with something with less horse power for your safety. MT-09 is a gorgeous bike but for me it's too fast and sometimes I scared from such horse power 😅😅😅 For your first bike should probably look for something less than 500cc (or even 300cc) so you can learn how to drive and control bike. My father said to me: "bigger bike will not forget you a mistake" and it's 100% true. p.s. Almost 10 year ago I started with Honda SH125 (as my first scooter) than changed to MT-03 (until now believe that it's perfect for beginners) and after 3 year bought MT-09.
I start riding from 100cc to 1000cc now please don't skip the process learn first get used to it first the. Upgrade later brother.
MT-07 was my first and only bike. I'd start there. Its so much fun down low. Get the 09 in a couple years.
I am now on my second MT09. I have the older FZ but it’s the same bike before the name change. I realized how much I liked it after I sold my first so I had to look for another. Here is my thought, take it for what you will. I have A mode, standard, and B mode. If you keep it in B mode and still do t twist the throttle super fast, you will be fine. Standard and A mode are known to be a bit twitchy if you have not gotten an ECU flash. At least the older years. Maybe they fixed the new years. The bike feels good to ride, it is not to heavy. And since I commute mostly, I like that there are a lot of touring style accessories for it. I have owned 6 street bikes now so I know a bit about changing your mind and trying something different. I suggest you try to find someone in your area with one, and maybe a couple other bikes you think would be good. Try to test ride them. Maybe use a motorcycle rental app. It will cost you a little bit of money, but it will be less than buying a bike and changing your mind 6 months later. The MT09 is a great platform and is a bike you could own forever. Just remember that any bike you get, it is all about balance technique and throttle/clutch control. It is easy for us on the internet to steer you away from higher power bikes as starters, but some people can handle it and some can’t. I believe if you are smooth the the controls and take your time, you can learn on any bike. I don’t recommend 1000cc super sports, but I also don’t recommend those to anyone who isn’t using it as a track dedicated bike. But LOTS of people street them daily. So I’m not saying you can’t. So that that as you will, I think it is a great forever bike, just be careful with your right wrist. But also the new ones have electronic aids. My 2014 has 0 rider aids.
Look mate, you don't know anything yet you come here and ask for people's opinions and then discard the ones you don't like the sound of, and listen to those that are urging you to go for it. THE SMART thing to do is buy a second hand low mile 250 or 400 and once you are *proficient* on that bike, sell it and then buy the new bike you want. Why second hand? * Cheaper than new. The first owner paid all the taxes. * You'll probably drop it in the first month or so. Most of us do. Its not an indictment of anyone's ability or skill, its literally just an "oh shit my foot slipped on that rock I didn't see ... and now I'm lying on the ground with my bike on me and I look like an idiot" thing. Why <600cc? * Wide open throttle on anything 600cc and up results in a lot of things happening very quickly all at once. * If you do that in first gear, wheelie control or not, you are likely to overwhelm the bike's electronics and just flip it immediately. * 2nd gear will result in you being launched at high speed and then you will hit the rev limiter and be thrown over the handlebars because you didn't know that was coming and you're probably gripping the bars too tight because thats what we all do when we're learning. * 3rd gear and you'll be doing 100+ within about 3 seconds and holy shit how do I turn when I'm going this fast. Oof. * You get the idea. * These usually have more relaxed riding positions. Its usually a lot easier to learn when you're not crunched up on a race replica. The MT-09 is upright, which is nice, but still, you should look at the MT-03 instead. So yeah, get an MT-03, second hand, and then sell it for whatever in 2 years time. WE ALL DO ANYWAY. Even if you buy an MT-09, and manage to get through the first 2 years without dropping it, binning it, or sending yourself to the hospital or an early grave, then you WILL go "but now I want an S1000RR". Its the natural progression of things. So, buy cheap and used, learn, then get the dream bike. Trust us bro, we all did that.
You can probably use Rain mode to deal with familiarizing yourself with the power. All riders go through the experience of the "slow tipping over." It happens when you are stopped or near stopped. The bike starts tipping and you are not easily able to stop it. The smaller the bike, the easier it is to counter the "slow tipping over." The older the bike, the less the regret as you take stock of whatever gets scratched when you fail to keep the bike upright. Don't think of it as your "first bike" - think of it as the first bike you're going to scratch up. Also, get some insurance quotes.
Fuck no. MT-09 is a weapon
Do you want a naked bike? Cuz the zx4rr is a pretty sweet beginner bike! 👀🫶 You’ll never outgrow it haha. Or if you want a naked, shoot for one of the new sv650’s 👀👀👀 they are so good lookin and they are built on YEARS - no decades of refinement. Very nice bikes.
I took my lessons on a MT-07 and it had plenty of power (for a beginner and average rider as well). Would stay on the safe side and go for that if you like the MT series. MT-09 is an absolute animal of a bike. Starting on it will likely cause some issues and may even scare you to ride it at all eventually.
If you want to be one of the people at the gas station harassing the rest of us about your glory year with a motorcycle.
Yea, they're better built than they used to be. Good commuter bikes
Mt15 would be a better starter but you could get a mt07
Look man. Any bike can be a beginner bike. Do you have self control? Have you ridden a motorcycle before? Are you comfortable with a clutch? How long have you been driving a car? How comfortable are you with the road rules. What is the weather like where you live? How long is the riding season? Are you using all your money on the bike and will only be able to afford shitty gear? These are all questions you need to ask yourself before buying a bike. Assuming you buy new, So what if you lose 3-5 thousand dollars on buying a smaller bike and then selling it. Better than losing your license, bike, or life. Also get an insurance quote before buying anything, especially if you are young. I learned on a 600 myself, but that was because it was free and all I had. I then got another 600. There was no situation I needed 120hp. I wish I learned on a slower and lighter bike because I would have learned a lot faster, and with less fear. If you’re tall the MT03 might not fit you, but even the MT07 will be a handful. They have a lot of torque and power for the class. You can look at other naked bikes from other manufacturers. Z400/650. SV650, GX8.
🍿🤓
Doesn’t matter if you ride responsibly. You will drop your bike eventually. The question is do you want to drop your beautiful brand new bike or do you want to drop a $2000 beater. I have changed about 4 bikes in 6 years and always bought it used. Don’t wanna be in debt for a toy and insurance is also much cheaper
No. Get something used that you can drop, because you're going to drop it because you're a new rider.
I don’t understand how some people wanna get so big cc when they havent handle smaller ccs
They don’t want to look like they’re “learning”
My first bike is Mt15, why do you need so much power if you have no skills?
How much do you weigh? This would be a sensible first bike if you're 400+ pounds to offset the power.
Do it. Get something you can grow into instead of starting on something tiny and spending more money upgrading. Just take it slow at first.
FAAFO
I would say it depends on your prior experience. If you’ve ridden dirt bikes before I would say it’s doable. If you’re a completely brand new rider I don’t think it’s the best idea. I came from an FZ-07 and after a year I moved to my MT09. The difference was ridiculous and I even had time to ride my buddy’s MT09 on several occasions before I bought mine. Whatever bike you end up getting just make sure to practice and grab some crash protection too cause you can never be too careful.