Yamaha Tracer 700 GT: Specs, Price, And Review

by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Yamaha Tracer 700 GT, a bike that’s been making waves in the touring world. If you're looking for a versatile motorcycle that can handle daily commutes and weekend adventures, you’ve come to the right place. We'll cover everything from its specs and features to its price and overall performance. Let’s get started!

What is Yamaha Tracer 700 GT?

The Yamaha Tracer 700 GT is a sport-touring motorcycle designed for riders who want a blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. It's essentially an upgraded version of the standard Tracer 700, with added features that make it more suitable for long-distance riding. Think of it as your trusty companion for both daily commutes and epic road trips.

Key Features

Let's break down what makes the Tracer 700 GT stand out:

  • Engine: A punchy 689cc parallel-twin engine that delivers smooth and responsive power.
  • Comfort: Upgraded touring screen and comfortable rider and passenger seats.
  • Storage: Standard side cases for carrying your gear.
  • Suspension: Adjustable suspension for a customizable riding experience.
  • Electronics: Modern LCD display and optional extras like heated grips and GPS.

Target Audience

The Tracer 700 GT is perfect for:

  • Commuters: Riders who need a reliable and comfortable bike for daily use.
  • Touring Enthusiasts: Those who enjoy long-distance rides and weekend getaways.
  • Versatile Riders: Individuals who want a bike that can handle various riding conditions.

Yamaha Tracer 700 GT: Key Specs and Features

Let's get into the nitty-gritty details of what the Yamaha Tracer 700 GT brings to the table. Understanding the specs and features is crucial for knowing whether this bike fits your needs. So, buckle up as we explore the engine, performance, dimensions, and more.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the Tracer 700 GT is its 689cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine. This engine is known for its CP2 architecture, which provides a crossplane crankshaft design, resulting in strong and linear torque delivery. What does this mean for you? It means you get a bike that’s incredibly responsive, making it a joy to ride in various conditions.

  • Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valves
  • Displacement: 689cc
  • Maximum Power: Around 73.4 hp (54 kW) at 9,000 rpm
  • Maximum Torque: Approximately 68 Nm (50 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm
  • Fuel System: Fuel injection
  • Transmission: 6-speed

The engine’s performance is smooth and predictable, making it excellent for both beginners and experienced riders. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing ample power throughout the rev range. This translates to fewer gear changes and a more relaxed riding experience, especially on long tours.

Chassis and Suspension

The Tracer 700 GT features a lightweight and compact chassis that contributes to its agile handling. The suspension system is designed to offer a comfortable ride while maintaining good control.

  • Frame Type: Tubular steel backbone
  • Front Suspension: Telescopic fork
  • Rear Suspension: Link-type monoshock with adjustable preload and rebound damping
  • Front Brake: Dual 298mm hydraulic discs
  • Rear Brake: Single 245mm hydraulic disc
  • ABS: Standard

The adjustable suspension allows you to fine-tune the ride to your preference, whether you're carrying a passenger, luggage, or riding solo. The braking system is reliable, with standard ABS providing added safety in emergency situations.

Dimensions and Weight

Here are the key measurements of the Tracer 700 GT:

  • Overall Length: 2,140 mm
  • Overall Width: 840 mm
  • Overall Height: 1,290 mm
  • Seat Height: 835 mm
  • Wheelbase: 1,450 mm
  • Wet Weight: Around 196 kg (including fuel and fluids)
  • Fuel Capacity: 17 liters

The Tracer 700 GT strikes a good balance between being compact enough for easy handling and substantial enough for stability on the open road. The seat height is relatively accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of riders.

Additional Features

Beyond the core specs, the Tracer 700 GT comes with several features that enhance its touring capabilities:

  • Touring Screen: A taller and wider windscreen that provides better wind protection.
  • Side Cases: Standard hard side cases with a combined capacity of around 39 liters.
  • Comfort Seat: A more comfortable seat for both the rider and passenger.
  • LCD Instrument Panel: A clear and informative display that shows speed, gear position, fuel level, and more.
  • Optional Accessories: Yamaha offers a range of accessories, including heated grips, a top case, and a GPS mount.

How much does the Yamaha Tracer 700 GT cost?

One of the most important factors when considering a new motorcycle is the price. The Yamaha Tracer 700 GT offers a lot of value for its price point, making it an attractive option in the sport-touring category. Let's break down the costs and what you can expect.

Base Price

The base price of the Yamaha Tracer 700 GT typically ranges from $9,000 to $10,000, depending on the region and any additional options. This price is competitive with other bikes in its class, such as the Kawasaki Versys 650 and the Suzuki V-Strom 650.

Additional Costs

Keep in mind that the base price is just the starting point. Here are some additional costs to consider:

  • Taxes: Sales tax can add a significant amount to the final price, depending on your location.
  • Registration Fees: You'll need to register the bike with your local DMV, which involves paying registration fees.
  • Insurance: Motorcycle insurance is mandatory in most places, and the cost can vary depending on your age, riding experience, and coverage level.
  • Accessories: While the Tracer 700 GT comes with some touring essentials, you might want to add accessories like heated grips, a top case, or a GPS mount.
  • Gear: Don't forget about riding gear! You'll need a helmet, jacket, gloves, and boots, which can cost several hundred dollars.

Financing Options

If you're not paying cash, you'll need to explore financing options. Many dealerships offer financing through their in-house programs or third-party lenders. Be sure to shop around for the best interest rates and terms.

Value for Money

Despite the additional costs, the Yamaha Tracer 700 GT offers excellent value for money. You get a well-equipped sport-touring bike with a punchy engine, comfortable ergonomics, and practical features like side cases and a touring screen. It's a versatile machine that can handle daily commutes, weekend getaways, and long-distance tours with ease.

Riding Experience

Alright, let's talk about what it's really like to ride the Yamaha Tracer 700 GT. Specs and features are great, but the actual riding experience is what truly matters. We'll cover the comfort, handling, and overall feel of this fantastic sport-tourer.

Comfort

The Tracer 700 GT is designed with comfort in mind, making it an excellent choice for long rides. The upright riding position, combined with the comfortable seat and touring screen, helps reduce fatigue and strain. The handlebars are positioned for a natural reach, and the footpegs are set at a comfortable height. The upgraded touring screen provides better wind protection than the standard Tracer 700, reducing wind noise and turbulence.

Handling

Despite its touring capabilities, the Tracer 700 GT handles surprisingly well. The lightweight chassis and responsive engine make it fun to ride on twisty roads. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a good balance between comfort and control. The bike feels stable and planted, even at higher speeds. The brakes are responsive and offer good stopping power, and the ABS system provides added safety in emergency situations.

Performance

The 689cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth and linear power, making it easy to ride in various conditions. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing ample power throughout the rev range. This translates to fewer gear changes and a more relaxed riding experience. The engine is also fuel-efficient, allowing you to cover long distances without frequent stops.

Daily Use

The Tracer 700 GT is also practical for daily use. It's narrow enough to filter through traffic, and the comfortable riding position makes it easy to navigate city streets. The side cases provide ample storage for carrying groceries, work documents, or other essentials. The bike is also relatively easy to park, thanks to its manageable weight and dimensions.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's look at the pros and cons of the Yamaha Tracer 700 GT. This will help you weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.

Pros

  • Versatile: Suitable for commuting, touring, and weekend rides.
  • Comfortable: Upright riding position, comfortable seat, and good wind protection.
  • Powerful Engine: Punchy 689cc parallel-twin engine with smooth power delivery.
  • Good Handling: Lightweight chassis and well-tuned suspension.
  • Practical Features: Standard side cases, touring screen, and LCD instrument panel.
  • Value for Money: Competitive price point compared to other sport-touring bikes.

Cons

  • Basic Suspension: The suspension is adjustable, but it's not as sophisticated as some higher-end bikes.
  • Limited Electronics: The bike lacks advanced electronics like traction control or riding modes (although this helps keep the price down).
  • Styling: Some riders may find the styling a bit bland compared to more aggressive-looking sportbikes.

Alternatives

If the Tracer 700 GT doesn't quite fit your needs, here are some alternatives to consider. These bikes offer similar capabilities and features, but they each have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

  • Kawasaki Versys 650: A versatile sport-tourer with a comfortable riding position and a punchy engine.
  • Suzuki V-Strom 650: A reliable and capable adventure bike with a strong following.
  • BMW F750 GS: A premium adventure bike with advanced features and excellent performance.
  • Triumph Tiger Sport 660: A sporty and stylish sport-tourer with a comfortable riding position.

Conclusion

The Yamaha Tracer 700 GT is a fantastic sport-touring motorcycle that offers a great balance of performance, comfort, and versatility. It's perfect for riders who want a bike that can handle daily commutes, weekend getaways, and long-distance tours with ease. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're in the market for a versatile and affordable sport-tourer, the Tracer 700 GT is definitely worth considering.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive look at the Yamaha Tracer 700 GT. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, this bike has something to offer. Happy riding, guys!