Touring bikes are becoming increasingly intelligent, almost to the point of being intimidating. They now come equipped with cruise control, lean-sensitive ABS, Apple Carplay, and electronic suspension – features that seem more fitting for luxury cars than long-distance motorcycles. However, this technology is here to stay and it is becoming more affordable. Now, Yamaha has joined the trend with their latest lineup.
Yamaha has unveiled the updated Tracer 9 GT+. This new version of their flagship sport-tourer retains its 890cc inline triple engine, but introduces a range of new electronics that appear to be on par with the most sophisticated machines in the industry, and even surpasses some of them.
The new Tracer 9 GT+ features radar technology at the front, enabling adaptive cruise control. Just like in cars, it will maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, regardless of speed. However, Yamaha’s radar system also interfaces with the brake bias and suspension damping of the motorcycle.
If a rider starts braking while the radar cruise control is active, but the bike’s electronic control unit determines that they are not applying