MT-09

The CP3 is an 890cc triple with a 120-degree crank, and its torque curve is a plateau rather than a peak: 90 percent of the 93 Nm is available from 5,000 rpm to redline. The 2024 generation brought a new die-cast aluminium Deltabox frame, a stiffer swingarm, and revised ergonomics with a lower, wider bar.

You get a six-axis IMU, cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, a bidirectional quickshifter, and a 5-inch TFT with a scroll wheel. The 41 mm KYB fork is fully adjustable; the SP version swaps in a KYB cartridge fork and an Öhlins shock.

The MT-09 is quick in a way that feels effortless because the triple never has to be wound up. Third gear covers everything from a village to a fast sweeper. The chassis update cured the old bike's vague front end; now it holds a line under brakes and tips in with real confidence.

The snatchy throttle of early CP3s is gone, though mode A is still sharper than I want in the rain. Wind protection is nil, and the seat is firm.

Valve checks are at 42,000 km, and I have yet to hear of one out of spec at the first check. Oil changes are easy; the filter is right there on the front of the block. The triple runs cool and the electrical system has been reliable across the generation.

The only wear item to watch is the rear tyre, which the engine treats as a consumable.

The rider moving up from a 500 or a 650 who wants one bike for commuting, weekends, and the occasional track day. Not for a first year rider, and not for anyone who needs wind protection for a long commute.