Mention Yamaha’s CP2 parallel twin and superlatives like punchy, engaging, and fun usually follow close behind. Whether it’s powering the MT-07 naked sport bike or the go-anywhere Ténéré 700, the beloved mill straddles the line between accessible and exciting, between simple and sensational.
That’s mostly attributed to its torque-rich power delivery and characterful sound. Its technological pedigree, not so much. Team Blue set out to change that with the 2025 MT-07 and Ténéré 700.
The CP2 retains its 80 mm bore, 68.6 mm stroke, and 689 cc volume, but the powerplant now benefits from a Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) system. That’s Yamaha-speak for ride-by-wire. The addition results in a “more linear power delivery and improved connection between rider and machine,” according to the Iwata factory. It also unlocks ride modes. That includes Street, Sport, and Custom for the MT-07, and Sport and Explorer for the Ténéré. Both models now feature switchable traction control.
Like the MT-10 and MT-09 before it, the MT-07 also gains acoustic amplifying grilles that redirect the bike’s induction noise back to the rider. Meanwhile, the T7’s shorter intake duct reportedly enhances torque and power delivery in the low- to mid-range. The updates aren’t limited to the engine, either. Both the MT and Ténéré also undergo long overdue chassis revisions.
Gone is the MT-07’s traditional telescopic fork. In its place is a new 41 mm KYB inverted unit. The front end now allows Yamaha to equip the naked with radially mounted calipers, which leads to “consistent braking performance thanks to the increased rigidity.” Rounding out the upgraded chassis are the lightweight SpinForged wheels and a slightly updated KYB rear shock.
The Ténéré 700’s 43 mm KYB fork already offered rebound and compression adjustability but a new preload adjuster located at the top of the fork tube allows even more fine-tuning. At the rear, a redesigned KYB shock now “provides increased stroke and enhanced load absorption for more on- and off-road confidence.”
Both models also receive a facelift in 2025. The MT now sports a headlight assembly that draws it closer to its MT stablemates. A slimmer tank, updated side covers, trimmer tail section, and resculpted seat only contribute to the bike’s minimalistic aesthetic. On the other hand, the T7 inches closer to its rally influences with an all-new quad-LED headlight, chiseled bodywork, color-matched hand guards, and a flatter seat.
All those changes amount to a $400 markup for the MT-07 and a $200 bump for the Ténéré 700, bringing the MSRPs to $8,599 and $10,999 (respectively). The former will arrive in dealerships in December while the latter will be available in February.
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