Key to the MT-01’s stunning visual signature is its maximum-engine, minimum-body design. Like a running suit on an Olympic sprinter, the chassis and bodywork hug the engine so tightly they are almost invisible. Like you’re strapped across the back of an engine – and nothing more.

Styled as a part of the engine, the oil tank is exposed to the cool airstream to keep oil temperatures lower when riding.

Minimalist controlled fill aluminium die-casting technology provides the structure for an extremely strong yet lightweight chassis with ideal rigidity balance characteristics. And together with superbike-spec suspension and brakes, it provides a sensually accelerating experience.

If the standard MT-01 isn’t enough to get you torquing in tongues, there’s also the Stage One, Stage Two and Stage Three performance kits – good for up to 25% more of that MT-01 grunt.

From the unique headlight design and 3D instrumentation to the gracefully tapered titanium mufflers that draw the eye to the artfully crafted LED taillight, the MT01 is a visual feast.

The muscular V-Twin engine has a powerful presence impossible to ignore. No balancer is used in this purposeful power unit — a feature which improves output while enhancing the engine’s soul-stirring pulse.

The CF (Controlled Fill) die-cast aluminium frame is made up of just two cast parts (left and right), bolted together at the head pipe assembly and at the swing arm pivot. Bolted to the main frame is a two-part cast and moulded aluminium down tube and the whole main frame structure is totally weld-free.

The MT-01 V-Twin engine is bolted to the frame using an eight point rigid-mount system, making it a fully-stressed member. The pushrod configuration enables the torque character of a long stroke engine, without the height.

MT-01’s whole swingarm/suspension combination is based on the latest supersports technology, with an upside-down front fork, fully adjustable suspension, six pot radial brake callipers, and an R1-type swingarm.

Fuel injection system is equipped with a 12-hole system (instead of the common 4 holes) for a very fine fuel spray and optimised combustion.

Yamaha’s patented EXUP system further increases torque by operating a valve in the exhaust collector to increase diameter in line with engine rpm.

MT-01’s entire exhaust and EXUP system is made out of titanium to keep the weight as low as possible.

Active rider position sees a tapered handlebar, rigid-mounted to provide the most direct feedback from the tyres and road.