Yamaha MT-09 SP: The Ultimate Thrill Machine for Just €12,995

 Right, let’s get straight to it. Imagine, if you will, a Yamaha MT-09 SP—a motorcycle that’s not just an evolution, but a steroid-infused, gym-bro version of the standard MT-09. It's like taking an already athletic friend and feeding them nothing but raw steak and protein shakes for a month. The result? A machine that practically begs you to slap on a helmet, crack your knuckles, and tear through every twisty bit of tarmac you can find. And where better to test this beast than the legendary Tail of the Dragon? That asphalt serpent that’s got more bends than a politician's promises.

Now, picture this: I’m the caboose in a seven-strong convoy of identical Yamahas, each of us slicing through the curves like synchronized swimmers on two wheels. It’s a dance of trust and throttle, every rider inches from the next, our tires flirting with the edge of grip, and our speeds veering into “probably going to get us in trouble” territory. But here’s the thing—when you’ve been doing this as long as we have, it’s not just a ride, it’s a performance. And the MT-09 SP? Well, it’s the lead actor stealing the show.

So, what’s so special about the SP, you ask? For starters, it’s got Brembo Stylemas. Now, if you don’t know what that means, let me spell it out: they’re the brake calipers that every other brake caliper wishes it could be when it grows up. These beauties are lighter, cooler (literally), and grabbier than your ex at a Christmas party. You can yank on the lever, dive into a corner, and feel every ounce of stopping power oozing through the handlebars. If the standard MT-09 had a slight “Am I braking or just squeezing air?” issue, the SP says, “Hold my beer, I’ve got this.”

Next up, is the suspension. Oh yes, the golden bling that every bike aficionado drools over. Now, while the forks might be faking a Swedish accent—they’re KYB, not Öhlins—they still perform like a dream. You’ve got more adjustability here than a Swiss Army knife, and the handling? It’s tighter than a drum. The SP’s suspension keeps the wheels glued to the road like it’s been infused with the very soul of Valentino Rossi. Push it, and it pushes back—just the way you like it.

But here’s the kicker: Yamaha’s thrown in a Track mode. Yes, you heard me—a Track mode on a naked bike. Why, you ask? Well, it’s clearly a wink and a nudge towards a certain R9 that Yamaha’s been coyly pretending doesn’t exist. But until they stop playing hard to get, this SP will give you a taste of track-ready thrills with its lap timer and customizable settings. It’s like bringing a sniper rifle to a knife fight—overkill, but damn satisfying.

Yet, as much as I’d love to keep heaping praise on the MT-09 SP, I can’t ignore a few niggles. There’s a flat spot in the engine at low revs—a bit like finding out your favorite restaurant has run out of steak just when you’re about to order. And that clutch cover? It’s still positioned just perfectly to whack your shins if you’re not paying attention. And for the love of all things holy, where is the R9, Yamaha?

Still, for €12,995—just a smidge more than the standard model—you get a bike that’s as close to perfect as anything in its class. The engine still sings like a choir of hooligans, the riding position is all-day comfortable, and it’s got the potential to be your best mate in both the urban jungle and the mountain twisties. If you’re in the market for a middleweight naked, it’s simple: save up a bit more and go for the SP. You’ll thank me when you’re grinning like a lunatic at the exit of every corner. 

Ah, right, a small but important detail. So, for €12,995, Yamaha’s asking for a bit more of your hard-earned cash, but let’s be honest—it’s still an absolute steal. You’re getting a bike that’s not just a few upgrades slapped on for marketing fluff; it’s a machine that’s been finely tuned to deliver thrills on every twist and turn. Whether you're carving through mountain roads or just tearing up the daily commute, this bike makes every euro feel well spent.

In conclusion, Yamaha’s MT-09 SP isn’t just a bike; it’s a statement. It says, “Yes, I could ride something more sensible, but where’s the fun in that?” And trust me, when you’re riding this thing, fun is the only word that matters.