Hey guys! Let's dive into the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT, a fantastic sport-touring motorcycle known for its versatility and performance. However, like any machine, it has its quirks. This article will cover some common issues you might encounter with your Tracer 900 GT and, more importantly, how to tackle them. We'll keep it real and practical, so you can get back on the road with confidence.

1. Understanding the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT

Before we jump into the problems, let's appreciate what makes the Tracer 900 GT so special. This bike is renowned for its smooth triple engine, comfortable riding position, and a host of features that make long journeys a breeze. From its adjustable windscreen to its integrated panniers (on some models), the Tracer 900 GT is built for adventure. But even the best bikes can have issues, so let's get into the nitty-gritty.

The Yamaha Tracer 900 GT has carved a niche for itself as a versatile and reliable sport-touring motorcycle, blending performance with comfort and practicality. Its appeal lies in its ability to handle both spirited rides on twisty roads and long-distance journeys with equal aplomb. The heart of the Tracer 900 GT is its punchy 847cc inline-three-cylinder engine, delivering a thrilling surge of power and torque that makes overtaking and navigating challenging terrain a breeze. Riders appreciate the engine's smooth power delivery and responsive throttle, making it a joy to ride in various conditions.

Beyond its impressive engine, the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT boasts a range of features designed to enhance rider comfort and convenience. The adjustable windscreen allows riders to fine-tune the airflow, reducing wind buffeting and fatigue on long rides. The comfortable seat and upright riding position contribute to a relaxed posture, minimizing strain on the back and wrists. Additionally, the Tracer 900 GT comes equipped with a host of electronic rider aids, including traction control, ride modes, and cruise control, providing an extra layer of safety and confidence in diverse riding conditions. These features, combined with the bike's ample storage capacity, make it an ideal companion for long-distance adventures and weekend getaways.

The Yamaha Tracer 900 GT represents a sweet spot in the motorcycle world, offering a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. Its responsive engine, comfortable ergonomics, and advanced features make it a popular choice among riders seeking a capable and enjoyable sport-touring machine. Whether you're planning a cross-country tour or simply commuting to work, the Tracer 900 GT is well-equipped to handle the task with confidence and style. Its reputation for reliability and practicality further cements its position as a top contender in the adventure-touring segment, making it a worthwhile investment for riders seeking a motorcycle that can do it all.

2. Common Issues with the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT

Alright, let's talk about some of the gremlins that might pop up with your Yamaha Tracer 900 GT. These are based on common reports and forums, so your mileage may vary. Remember, every bike is different!

• Fueling Issues: Some riders have reported slightly jerky throttle response, especially at low speeds. This can make slow-speed maneuvers a bit challenging. Also, there have been some reports on fuel consumption being higher than expected.
• Suspension: The stock suspension, while decent, can feel a bit soft for aggressive riding or when carrying a passenger and luggage. Many riders opt for aftermarket upgrades.
• Wind Buffeting: While the adjustable windscreen is a nice feature, some riders still experience wind buffeting, particularly at higher speeds. This can lead to discomfort on long rides.
• Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported minor electrical glitches, such as issues with the instrument panel or the quick shifter (if equipped).
• Chain and Sprocket Wear: The chain and sprockets can wear out relatively quickly, especially if not properly maintained. Regular cleaning and lubrication are crucial.

The Yamaha Tracer 900 GT, despite its many positive attributes, is not immune to certain common issues that owners may encounter. One frequently reported concern revolves around fueling, with some riders experiencing a slightly jerky throttle response, particularly at low speeds. This can manifest as abrupt acceleration or deceleration, making smooth transitions and precise control challenging, especially in stop-and-go traffic or tight maneuvering situations. The issue is often attributed to the bike's fuel injection system, which may not be perfectly calibrated for all riding conditions. While not a deal-breaker, this fueling quirk can detract from the overall riding experience and may require attention to mitigate.

Another area where the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT falls short for some riders is its stock suspension setup. While adequate for general touring and commuting, the suspension can feel somewhat soft and underdamped when pushed harder on twisty roads or when carrying a passenger and luggage. This can result in a less composed and confidence-inspiring ride, particularly when encountering bumps and imperfections in the road surface. Riders seeking a more refined and controlled riding experience often opt for aftermarket suspension upgrades, such as stiffer springs, adjustable dampers, or even a complete suspension replacement. These upgrades can significantly improve the bike's handling and stability, allowing riders to fully exploit its performance potential.

Wind buffeting is another common complaint among Yamaha Tracer 900 GT owners. While the bike features an adjustable windscreen, some riders still experience excessive wind noise and turbulence, particularly at higher speeds. This can lead to discomfort and fatigue on long rides, as the constant buffeting can strain the rider's neck and shoulders. The effectiveness of the windscreen varies depending on the rider's height and riding position, and some riders may find that aftermarket windscreens or deflectors offer better protection. Experimenting with different windscreen options and adjusting the screen's height and angle can help minimize wind buffeting and improve rider comfort.

Electrical issues, while less frequent, have also been reported by some Yamaha Tracer 900 GT owners. These issues can range from minor glitches, such as intermittent problems with the instrument panel or the quick shifter (if equipped), to more significant electrical malfunctions that can affect the bike's performance or reliability. While not necessarily widespread, these electrical gremlins can be frustrating to diagnose and resolve, often requiring the attention of a qualified motorcycle mechanic. Regular maintenance and inspection of the bike's electrical system can help identify and prevent potential problems before they escalate.

Finally, the chain and sprockets on the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT are known to wear out relatively quickly, especially if not properly maintained. The chain is subjected to significant stress and strain, particularly under hard acceleration and heavy loads. Neglecting regular cleaning, lubrication, and adjustment can accelerate wear and tear, leading to premature failure of the chain and sprockets. To prolong the life of these components, it's essential to establish a routine maintenance schedule that includes frequent cleaning and lubrication with a quality chain lubricant. Additionally, it's important to inspect the chain for signs of wear, such as excessive slack, stiff links, or damaged rollers, and replace it when necessary.

3. Troubleshooting and Solutions

Okay, so you've identified a potential issue. What's next? Here are some troubleshooting tips and potential solutions.

• Fueling Issues:
  • Check for ECU Updates: Yamaha sometimes releases ECU updates that can smooth out the throttle response. Contact your dealer.
  • Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): Ensure the TPS is properly calibrated. A faulty TPS can cause jerky throttle response.
  • Fuel Injector Cleaning: Consider cleaning the fuel injectors. Clogged injectors can lead to uneven fuel delivery.
  • Aftermarket Fueling Modules: Products like the Dynojet Power Commander can allow for custom fuel mapping, addressing any fueling issues.
• Suspension:
  • Adjust Preload and Damping: Experiment with adjusting the preload and damping settings on your stock suspension. Consult your owner's manual.
  • Fork Oil Change: Replace the fork oil with a higher viscosity oil. This can improve damping performance.
  • Aftermarket Springs and Dampers: Consider upgrading to aftermarket springs and dampers for a more significant improvement.
• Wind Buffeting:
  • Adjust Windscreen Height: Play around with the windscreen height to find the optimal position.
  • Aftermarket Windscreen: Try an aftermarket windscreen designed to reduce buffeting.
  • Wind Deflectors: Add wind deflectors to the sides of the windscreen to redirect airflow.
• Electrical Issues:
  • Check Battery Connections: Ensure the battery connections are clean and tight.
  • Inspect Wiring Harness: Look for any signs of damaged or frayed wires.
  • Consult a Professional: For complex electrical issues, it's best to consult a qualified motorcycle mechanic.
• Chain and Sprocket Wear:
  • Regular Cleaning and Lubrication: Clean and lubricate the chain every 300-500 miles, or more frequently in dusty conditions.
  • Check Chain Tension: Ensure the chain tension is within the specified range.
  • Replace as a Set: When replacing the chain, always replace the sprockets as well.

Addressing fueling issues on the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT requires a systematic approach to identify and resolve the underlying cause. One of the first steps is to check for any available ECU updates from Yamaha. These updates often include revised fuel maps that can smooth out the throttle response and improve overall engine performance. Contacting your local Yamaha dealer is the best way to determine if any updates are available for your bike. Another potential culprit for jerky throttle response is a faulty throttle position sensor (TPS). The TPS plays a crucial role in providing accurate throttle input to the ECU, and if it's not properly calibrated or is malfunctioning, it can lead to erratic fuel delivery. Ensuring the TPS is properly calibrated or replacing it if necessary can often resolve fueling issues. Clogged fuel injectors can also contribute to uneven fuel delivery and jerky throttle response. Over time, deposits can build up in the injectors, restricting fuel flow and affecting the spray pattern. Consider cleaning the fuel injectors using a fuel injector cleaner additive or by having them professionally cleaned. For riders seeking more precise control over fuel mapping, aftermarket fueling modules like the Dynojet Power Commander offer a solution. These modules allow for custom fuel mapping, enabling riders to fine-tune the fuel delivery to suit their specific riding style and conditions.

When it comes to addressing suspension issues on the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT, there are several options available, ranging from simple adjustments to complete suspension upgrades. Before investing in aftermarket components, it's worth experimenting with adjusting the preload and damping settings on your stock suspension. The owner's manual provides detailed instructions on how to adjust these settings to optimize the suspension for your weight, riding style, and road conditions. Increasing the preload can help prevent the suspension from bottoming out under heavy loads, while adjusting the damping can control the rate at which the suspension compresses and rebounds. Replacing the fork oil with a higher viscosity oil can also improve damping performance. Over time, fork oil degrades and loses its viscosity, resulting in a softer and less controlled ride. Switching to a higher viscosity oil can stiffen the suspension and provide better damping characteristics. For riders seeking a more significant improvement in suspension performance, upgrading to aftermarket springs and dampers is the most effective solution. Aftermarket springs are typically stiffer than the stock springs, providing better support and reducing bottoming out. Aftermarket dampers offer adjustable compression and rebound damping, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension to their specific preferences.

Addressing wind buffeting on the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT involves finding the right combination of windscreen height, angle, and additional wind deflectors to minimize turbulence and noise. The first step is to experiment with adjusting the windscreen height to find the optimal position for your height and riding style. Raising the windscreen can provide more protection from the wind, but it can also increase turbulence if it's too high. Lowering the windscreen can reduce turbulence, but it may also expose you to more wind. Experimenting with different heights can help you find the sweet spot where you're protected from the wind without experiencing excessive buffeting. If adjusting the windscreen height doesn't completely eliminate wind buffeting, consider trying an aftermarket windscreen designed to reduce turbulence. These windscreens often feature a more aerodynamic shape and are designed to redirect airflow away from the rider. Adding wind deflectors to the sides of the windscreen can also help redirect airflow and reduce buffeting. These deflectors attach to the sides of the windscreen and create a barrier that prevents wind from wrapping around the sides and hitting the rider.

Troubleshooting electrical issues on the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT requires a methodical approach to identify and isolate the source of the problem. Start by checking the battery connections to ensure they are clean and tight. Loose or corroded connections can cause intermittent electrical problems and prevent the bike from starting. Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damaged or frayed wires. Look for cuts, abrasions, or exposed wires that could be causing a short circuit. If you find any damaged wires, repair them using electrical tape or by replacing the entire wire. For complex electrical issues, it's best to consult a qualified motorcycle mechanic. Electrical problems can be difficult to diagnose and repair, and attempting to fix them yourself without the proper knowledge and tools can be dangerous.

Maintaining the chain and sprockets on the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT is crucial for ensuring smooth power delivery and prolonging the life of these components. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for preventing wear and tear. Clean the chain every 300-500 miles, or more frequently in dusty conditions, using a chain cleaner and a brush. After cleaning, lubricate the chain with a quality chain lubricant. Check the chain tension regularly to ensure it is within the specified range. A chain that is too tight can cause excessive wear on the sprockets, while a chain that is too loose can skip or derail. When replacing the chain, always replace the sprockets as well. The chain and sprockets wear together, and replacing only one component can accelerate wear on the new part.

4. Preventative Maintenance

The best way to deal with issues is to prevent them in the first place! Here’s a quick rundown of preventative maintenance tips:

• Regular Oil Changes: Stick to the recommended oil change intervals.
• Chain Maintenance: Keep that chain clean and lubed!
• Check Tire Pressure: Maintain the correct tire pressure for optimal handling and tire life.
• Inspect Brakes: Regularly check your brake pads and rotors.
• Keep it Clean: A clean bike is a happy bike. Wash it regularly to prevent corrosion.

Regular oil changes are paramount for maintaining the health and longevity of your Yamaha Tracer 900 GT's engine. The engine oil serves as a lubricant, coolant, and cleaner, reducing friction between moving parts, dissipating heat, and carrying away contaminants. Over time, the oil degrades and becomes less effective, leading to increased wear and tear on engine components. Sticking to the recommended oil change intervals, as specified in the owner's manual, is crucial for ensuring optimal engine performance and preventing premature engine failure. Using the correct type and grade of oil is also essential. Yamaha recommends using a high-quality synthetic oil that meets the JASO MA2 standard for wet clutch compatibility.

Consistent chain maintenance is another critical aspect of preventative maintenance for the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT. The chain is responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the rear wheel, and it is subjected to significant stress and strain. Keeping the chain clean and lubricated is essential for reducing friction, preventing wear, and ensuring smooth power delivery. Clean the chain every 300-500 miles, or more frequently in dusty conditions, using a chain cleaner and a brush. After cleaning, lubricate the chain with a quality chain lubricant. Regular chain maintenance will not only prolong the life of the chain and sprockets but also improve the bike's overall performance and handling.

Maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for optimal handling, tire life, and safety on the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT. Underinflated tires can lead to reduced fuel economy, increased tire wear, and compromised handling. Overinflated tires can result in a harsher ride and reduced grip. Check the tire pressure regularly, using a reliable tire pressure gauge, and maintain the pressure at the recommended levels, as specified in the owner's manual. The recommended tire pressure may vary depending on the load, riding conditions, and tire type. Adjust the tire pressure accordingly to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Regularly inspecting the brakes is crucial for ensuring safe and reliable braking performance on the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT. Check the brake pads for wear and replace them when they are worn to the minimum thickness. Inspect the brake rotors for damage, such as cracks or warping. If the rotors are damaged, replace them immediately. Bleed the brakes regularly to remove air bubbles from the brake lines. Air bubbles can compromise braking performance and lead to a spongy feel at the lever. Use a high-quality brake fluid that meets the DOT 4 standard.

Keeping your Yamaha Tracer 900 GT clean is not only aesthetically pleasing but also essential for preventing corrosion and maintaining the bike's overall condition. Wash the bike regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the paint and other surfaces. Rinse the bike thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. Apply a wax or sealant to protect the paint from the elements. Clean and lubricate the chain, cables, and other moving parts. Inspect the bike for any signs of corrosion and address them promptly.

5. Conclusion

The Yamaha Tracer 900 GT is a fantastic motorcycle, and with a little care and attention, you can keep it running smoothly for years to come. By understanding the common issues and following these troubleshooting and maintenance tips, you'll be well-equipped to handle any challenges that come your way. Now get out there and enjoy the ride!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional mechanical advice. Always consult a qualified motorcycle mechanic for any repairs or maintenance on your Yamaha Tracer 900 GT.