Yamaha Tracer 700 – Specs, Features & Performance Review

The Yamaha Tracer 700 is a middleweight sport-touring motorcycle that blends versatility, performance, and everyday usability. Designed for both commuting and long-distance touring, it’s a favorite among riders who want a bike that performs just as well on twisty mountain roads as it does in city traffic. In this article, we explore the Yamaha Tracer 700 in depth—its specifications, standout features, and how it performs in real-world scenarios.

Overview of the Yamaha Tracer 700

Yamaha introduced the Tracer 700 as a sibling to its popular MT-07, offering a more adventure-ready, sport-touring oriented platform. Built on the same CP2 (Crossplane 2-cylinder) engine as the MT-07, it offers a balanced combination of agility, power, and comfort. Since its debut, the Yamaha Tracer 700 has earned a solid reputation for reliability and affordability.

Engine and Performance

Engine Specifications

At the heart of the Yamaha Tracer 700 lies a 689cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft. This unique firing order offers a character-rich exhaust note and better torque delivery at low to mid-range RPMs.

Engine Type: 4-stroke, DOHC, 2-cylinder

Displacement: 689cc

Cooling: Liquid-cooled

Maximum Power: Around 74.8 HP at 8750 RPM

Maximum Torque: 68 Nm at 6500 RPM

Transmission: 6-speed

On-Road Performance

Thanks to its lightweight chassis and responsive engine, the Yamaha Tracer 700 handles both urban and rural roads with confidence. The torque-rich motor makes it easy to power through tight turns, while the 6-speed gearbox ensures smooth transitions. The bike’s acceleration is linear, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. With a top speed of approximately 200 km/h, it’s no slouch on the highway either.

Chassis and Handling

Frame and Suspension

The Yamaha Tracer 700 uses a tubular backbone frame made from lightweight steel, enhancing stability and agility. The suspension is well-balanced for sport touring:

Front Suspension: 41mm telescopic forks

Rear Suspension: Monoshock with adjustable preload

Wheelbase: 1460 mm

Seat Height: 835 mm

Whether you're carving through corners or cruising on a freeway, the suspension setup offers a comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride. The front end feels planted, while the rear absorbs bumps effectively, even when riding with a passenger or carrying luggage.

Braking and Wheels

Safety is a priority on the Tracer 700. It features dual 282 mm front disc brakes and a 245 mm rear disc, supported by standard ABS. The 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels come wrapped in grippy sport-touring tires, enhancing traction in various road conditions.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Touring comfort is one of the Tracer 700’s strong suits. The upright riding position, wide handlebars, and well-padded seat contribute to a relaxed riding experience on long trips. Yamaha has also optimized the windscreen and fairing to provide decent wind protection at highway speeds. Additionally, the adjustable screen helps tailor the ride to your personal preference.

Riders over six feet tall may still want aftermarket windscreen upgrades, but for most, the stock setup is quite effective. The footpeg position allows for a natural leg angle, reducing fatigue on extended rides.

Features and Technology

Instrumentation

The Yamaha Tracer 700 comes equipped with a full LCD display that provides clear, easy-to-read information. The dash includes:

Speedometer and tachometer

Gear position indicator

Fuel level and range

Clock and ambient temperature

Average fuel consumption

While it lacks a color TFT display or smartphone connectivity, the Tracer 700’s instrumentation is functional and user-friendly.

Lighting and Electronics

Modern LED lighting enhances both visibility and aesthetics. The aggressive dual headlights give the bike a sporty appearance, while the LED taillight adds a touch of sophistication. Other electronic features include a basic traction control system and dual-channel ABS, though the bike is relatively minimalist in terms of advanced rider aids.

Touring Capabilities

For riders who plan to venture beyond city limits, the Yamaha Tracer 700 offers impressive touring credentials. Its 17-liter fuel tank provides a range of over 300 km on a full tank, depending on riding style. Yamaha also offers optional hard luggage, heated grips, and a center stand, making it easy to set the bike up for longer journeys.

Two-up riding is comfortable thanks to a spacious pillion seat and grab rails. Whether you’re heading to work or planning a weekend getaway, the Tracer 700 makes it easy to enjoy the ride.

Styling and Aesthetics

The Yamaha Tracer 700 underwent a design refresh in recent years, adopting a more aggressive and aerodynamic look. The sharp fairings, angular LED lights, and sporty tail section give it a distinct identity in the sport-touring segment. Available in a variety of color schemes, the bike looks just as good standing still as it does in motion.

Maintenance and Reliability

Yamaha motorcycles are known for their reliability, and the Tracer 700 is no exception. With regular maintenance—oil changes, chain care, and scheduled servicing—this bike can offer years of trouble-free riding. Parts are widely available, and service intervals are manageable, making ownership affordable for most riders.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Excellent power-to-weight ratio

Comfortable riding position

Versatile for both city and touring use

Affordable price point

Reliable and fuel-efficient

Cons:

Lacks advanced electronics (like cruise control or ride modes)

Stock windscreen may not suit taller riders

No quickshifter or cornering ABS

Conclusion

The Yamaha Tracer 700 strikes a fine balance between sportiness and practicality, making it one of the most versatile motorcycles in the mid-weight category. Whether you're a daily commuter, a weekend warrior, or an adventurer looking for a reliable touring companion, the Tracer 700 delivers a fun, responsive, and comfortable ride without breaking the bank.

With its punchy twin-cylinder engine, agile chassis, and well-thought-out ergonomics, the Yamaha Tracer 700 continues to impress riders around the world. If you’re in the market for a capable, no-nonsense sport tourer, this bike deserves a top spot on your list.