Buying a used Yamaha MT-07LA

Coming up to its 10th anniversary, the Yamaha MT-07LA is a proven and capable learner bike that has seen thousands of budding new riders set out on their two-wheeled love affair.

This LAMS-approved middleweight naked is also one of the most searched-for models here at bikesales, which is why we’ve assembled this handy guide for anyone considering MT-07LA ownership.

The story goes that the existence of the learner version of a Yamaha MT-07 is thanks to successful lobbying of Japan head office by local Yamaha staff. As a result, the learner-approved version of the MT-07 was launched locally a little ahead of the full-size HO (High Output) version.

So what’s the difference? Back in 2014 to 2015, it amounted to the LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme) machine displacing 655cc, with a 2mm smaller cylinder bore than the 689cc HO model.

Respective peak performance stats were 53hp (39kW) versus 76hp (56kW) max power and 57.5Nm versus 68Nm peak torque. Though clearly the full-power machine will be quicker, the LAMS version had more than enough urge on tap to make it a lively ride.

Producing all this across all three generations is a variant of Yamaha's 'CP2' fuel-injected crossplane-crank DOHC four-valve twin. That’s matched to a six-speed transmission with chain final drive.

Hosting the powerplant is a diamond-style steel chassis with conventional front fork and monoshock rear. Braking is by twin discs with monobloc calipers on the front and a disc rear.

We’ve so far seen three generations of the MT-07LA: 2014-2017, 2018-2020, and the current version from 2021.

A significant update for the first generation was the adoption of ABS across the board from 2015 – something to watch for if you’re in the used market.

The second generation, from 2018, is most easily picked by the new, more angular styling that was in tune with the bigger-capacity MT-09 series. Suspension rates were firmed up a little and the seating position came in for some mild revision.

For 2021 the MT-07LA came in for a further freshen-up of the styling and wider handlebars. Up front there was a new TFT instrument display offering a couple of alternative overall themes, plus smartphone connectivity with a dedicated app. LED lighting was also adopted.

Mechanically it remained unchanged, though the bigger HO variant underwent significant upgrades in part to meet Euro 5 emission demands.

The MT-07LA’s brakes did, however, come in for attention, the set-up scoring larger discs.

There is one consistent theme that comes across from ride impressions of all three generations of the Yamaha MT-07LA: it’s an easy-going package that’s light to handle and has enough performance to keep most people amused.

That CP2 engine package is designed to deliver loads of mid-range performance, so you don’t have to wring its neck. Overall, it’s a fun package.

The first-generation bikes gained a reputation for being a little too soft in the suspension department, though this will be affected by the weight and abilities of the rider. Those criticisms largely disappeared by the time the second generation turned up.

Speaking of suspension, the only adjustment is rear preload.

First-gen machines also copped some questions about braking performance, though this seemed to be an issue of tyre choice from new. An early MT-07LA will reward choosing grip over longevity when it comes to replacing rubber.

The current generation scores premium rubber from day one.

Yamaha’s engine/transmission package has a reputation for being robust and trouble-free.

When it comes to care and feeding, the owner manual says it needs to be fed premium unleaded fuel.

Regular services happen every 10,000km, which includes an oil and filter change. The latter is a spin-on cartridge and this is a task that a reasonably competent home mechanic should be able to tackle.

Valve lash is by shim and done every 40,000km and is a workshop job. The air filter is also due for replacement at that point.

If you own one, it would pay to store it out of the weather and treat the chassis to the occasional going over for corrosion – a thin layer of silicone fluid (WD-40, RP7, Inox or similar) applied with a rag can be effective. This series (mostly the first two generations) has been known to develop rust on fasteners, swingarm and frame welds.

While it’s possible to derestrict and hot up a LAMS MT-07, it makes far more financial sense to simply upgrade to an unrestricted HO. That in turn can be warmed up with some careful ECU tuning and a less restrictive exhaust.

A quick check of the bikesales stock brought up a staggering 100-plus used examples of this popular machine, plus new bikes.

Yamaha will cheerfully sell you a 2024 model on the road for $13,799, which sounds like decent value.

When it comes to used bikes, prices start at around $7000, while $8000 to $10,000 will provide a huge choice of low-use examples.

Find your own Yamaha MT-07LA right here on bikesales.

• This is one of those cases where the overall condition of the bike may be the deciding factor. Given the ample supply, you can afford to walk away from anything with obvious crash damage, or that has been left out in the elements and showing signs of extensive rust.
• Look for some evidence of basic servicing. The powerplant is pretty tough, so you’re really asking whether the owner has bothered with basics such as oil changes and how often. If it’s nearing 40,000km, keep in mind you’re soon up for a major service, which could be an $800 bill.
• Tyres, chains and sprockets should also be looked at, as replacement can add significantly to your costs.

For
• Easy to handle
• Robust and reliable
• Healthy performance

Against
• No ABS on very early bikes
• Rust/corrosion on the chassis
• Limited suspension adjustment

ENGINE
Type: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC triple
Capacity: 655cc
Bore x stroke: 78.0mm x 68.6mm
Compression ratio: 11.0:1
Engine management: Electronic fuel injection

PERFORMANCE
Claimed maximum power: 52.1hp (38.3kW) at 8000rpm
Claimed maximum torque: 57.5Nm at 4000rpm

CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR
Frame: Steel diamond trellis
Front suspension: Inverted 41mm fork, non-adjustable
Rear suspension: Monoshock, adjustable for preload
Front brakes: Twin 298mm discs with four-piston calipers, ABS equipped
Rear brake: Single 245mm disc with single-piston caliper, ABS equipped
Tyres: Michelin PR5, front 120/70-17, rear 180/55-17

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Rake: 24.5 degrees
Trail: 90mm
Claimed kerb weight: 184kg
Seat height: 805mm
Wheelbase: 1400mm
Fuel capacity: 14 litres

OTHER STUFF
Price: $13,799 ride away
Test bike supplied by: Yamaha Motor Australia
Warranty: 24 months, unlimited kilometres