Track Tested | Yamaha YZF-R9

First Impressions from Racer David Nhan Cao

To put the new machine through its paces, we handed the keys to David Nhan Cao, a rising club racer with the St George Motorcycle Club. Although a seasoned competitor, the day marked David’s first-ever media launch. The setting? The tight and technical South Circuit at Sydney Motorsport Park – a true test for any supersport machine.

Test Review: David Nhan Cao

The invitation to the media launch of the all-new YZF-R9 came as a total shock to me. Yamaha recently did a story about my MT-07 race bike and apparently they were so impressed with what I have achieved with the little bike they wanted to hear my thoughts on the all-new supersport machine. The tight, technical South Circuit at Sydney Motorsport Park made me feel quite at home and proved to be a true test for the new triple-cylinder beast.

First Look: R-Series, Evolved
From the moment I rolled out of pit lane, I realised the YZF-R9’s aggressive stance and distinctive R-series styling were just the start of the story. Yamaha’s signature M-shaped front duct, integrated winglets, and sharp bodywork give the R9 a MotoGP-inspired silhouette, but this bike is more than just looks—as I quickly discovered.

“It handles like a 600—actually, it handles like my R7, comfortable and very familiar." was what I managed to blurt out after my first on-track session.  It’s light, it tips in quickly, and the suspension is confidence-inspiring.  The fully adjustable KYB suspension is track-focused but not harsh, and the handling lets you lean in with confidence and hold a line effortlessly.

Engine: CP3 with Supersport Swagger
At the heart of the YZF-R9 is Yamaha’s proven 890cc CP3 triple-cylinder engine—tuned specifically for supersport duties. On track, the CP3 shines. The power delivery is silky smooth and linear.  You can crack the throttle open, and it will just carry you out of the corner.

Compared to the R6, the R9’s power is more accessible. You don’t need to rev it hard to get it moving quickly. The R9 is a 900cc three-cylinder engine, and the R6 is a four-cylinder 600cc engine, but the power output is about the same. With the R9 you’re getting that added torque through the bigger capacity, and that adds to the feeling of power when you first open the throttle.

Chassis: Lightweight Precision
Yamaha’s all-new advanced gravity-cast aluminium Deltabox frame is the lightest supersport chassis they’ve ever made. Paired with fully adjustable KYB suspension and Bridgestone Battlax S22 tyres, the handling is everything you’d expect from a serious track weapon. It’s nice and agile to ride, and It allows learners on smaller bikes to jump up to this instead of going straight onto an R1.

On the fast direction changes of the South Circuit, the R9 felt super nimble. The tank feels a little bit wide for me, but it’s so easy to turn and change directions. The feedback from the bike is outstanding—especially under braking.

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Electronics: Race-Ready Refinement
Yamaha has lifted the R9’s electronics straight from its flagship YZF-R1. Riders can fine-tune traction control, slide control, and brake control via the Yamaha Ride Control app. The level of adjustability is next-level, exactly what riders need to grow their skills. It’s designed for track riders wanting to fine-tune their machine for faster lap times, as well as road riders who love the endless adjustability.

Ergonomics: Track Sharp, Road Ready
Despite its race-ready looks, the YZF-R9’s ergonomics are surprisingly accommodating. The seating position is awesome, It’s not as aggressive as the R1 or the R6, which makes it a very handy track-day weapon—but also comfortable enough for everyday riding.

Verdict: A New Era of Supersport
After four sessions on the South Circuit, I can honestly say that the YZF-R9 shouldn’t be viewed as a replacement for the R6. The R6 was a full-blooded race bike designed for racing purposes, the R9 is different—it’s a road bike first, but with significant racing pedigree. That’s a gap that really needed to be filled by Yamaha once the YZF-R6 was discontinued. The R9’s unique blend of performance, handling, and rider-friendly ergonomics make it a perfect choice for riders of all skill levels. We had riders of all different abilities at the launch, and they all jumped onto the R9 and rode it safely, with confidence, and had a heap of fun.

For riders looking to graduate from Yamaha’s LAMS supersport machines to something that prepares them for the litre-class R1, the YZF-R9 is an inspired choice. It’s what a modern supersport should be.