Following closely on the heels of the updated MT-10 comes the SP version, with semi-active suspension courtesy of Öhlins.

Yamaha MT-10 SP Is The Most Sophisticated Chassis In Motorcycling Today

Hot on the heels of the all-new MT-10 launched a couple of weeks ago, incorporating more power, new styling, better brakes and a TFT dash, comes the higher spec SP version. While the mechanicals remain the same, it is the suspension that gets the big upgrade.

Being the first production bike to be equipped with the latest semi-active suspension from Öhlins, the MT-10 SP sets its sights firmly on top spot in the hotly contested super naked class, against serious rivals from Aprilia (Tuono), KTM (1290 Super Duke), Ducati (V4 Streetfighter) and the Triumph Speed Triple RS. So far, Yamaha is the only Japanese manufacturer to play in this category.

In case you're technically minded, the next generation of Öhlins semi-active suspension uses ‘spool valve damping technology’ to give a greater range of damping adjustment and higher degree of response.

The system comes with three selectable semi-active modes, A-1, A-2 and A-3, which equate to Sport, Sport-touring and Touring and the system automatically and continually adjusts rebound and compression damping and there are also three manual modes, M-1, M-2 and M-3.

Yamaha claims that the system is the most sophisticated chassis technology on a production motorcycle - better even than that fitted to the R1M - although, being an Öhlins system, it is likely that it will find its way onto other bikes in the future.

other changes to the MT-10 SP over the standard model are a three-piece belly pan and braided brake hoses, while new graphics mirror those found on the R1M.

The new SP is expected to arrive mid-2022 and no prices have been announced yet.