YZF-R7

The R7 takes the MT-07's CP2 twin and wraps it in a genuine sport chassis: a narrow steel frame with an aluminium centre brace, a fully adjustable 41 mm KYB inverted fork, a linked monoshock, and radial-mount four-piston Advics calipers on 298 mm discs with a Brembo radial master cylinder.

The 2026 update is the big one: a ride-by-wire throttle with ride modes, a six-axis IMU giving cornering ABS, traction, slide, and lift control, a stiffer frame, an updated KYB fork, and spin-forged wheels.

The R7's twin makes 73 hp, which sounds modest until you realise it is delivered with a 270-degree crank's torque and a chassis that weighs 188 kg. On a track, it teaches corner speed in a way a 200 hp superbike never can, because you cannot make up a mistake with the throttle. On the road, it is fast enough to be exciting and slow enough to keep your licence.

The ergonomics are committed. Clip-ons below the top yoke and a tall seat make it a proper sport bike, and your wrists will tell you after an hour of town riding.

The CP2 is one of the most reliable engines Yamaha has made. Valve checks are every 42,000 km, oil changes are simple, and the single-throttle-body layout is easy to service. The fairing comes off in sections with a dozen fasteners.

Budget for tyres and brake pads if you do track days, because you will.

The rider who wants to learn sport riding and track days properly, the road rider who wants sport bike looks without a superbike's insurance, and the racer on a budget. Not for commuting.