RUMOUR: Yamaha registers names – sporty bike on the way?

The Japanese factory’s registered a load of brand names for its sportiest bikes – and there’s talk that we’re going to see one of them very soon.

In February 2021, Yamaha registered a whole load of names for its sporty YZF-R range. There’s YZF-R1, YZF-R2, YZF-R3, YZF-R4, YZF-R5, YZF-R6, YZF-R7, YZF-R8, YZF-R9, YZF-R15, YZF-R20 and YZF-R25. It even registered the shortened versions; R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9, R15, R20 and R25.

Of course, there’s no guarantee that Yamaha’s actually going to build any of these bikes. It could simply be protecting the names to make sure no one else can use them. But that’s not what the rumour mill in Japan seems to suggest.

In fact, our pals over there reckon a new R9 based around the existing MT-09 could be on the way for 2023. And that’s partly because in October 2022 Yamaha also had the YZF-R9 name protected by the European and Indian patent offices too.

Although that’s not exactly the most compelling evidence, it’s not such a leap to imagine Yamaha coming up with the goods, particularly when you consider the recent introduction of the MT-07 derived R7 which offers a more accessible and more affordable option for sporty riders not wanting the full fat R1 racer. And that’s likely what the R9 would do too… just with a bit more punch.

The MT-09 makes a perfect base. The fun, funky and fiery naked has won fans thanks to its agile handling and 890cc triple-cylinder engine which kicks out 119hp at 10,000 rpm and 68.6lb-ft (93Nm) of torque at 7000 rpm. If Yamaha wraps that up in a full fairing, fit some clip-on bars, some higher footpegs and sharper up the rear end, it’ll surely be onto a winner.

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