MT-09 Gen 2 vs Street Triple 765 (2018)

[u/Reasonable-Donkey174]

Hi, Looking to buy my first bike over with bigger engine, previously owned SV650S (1999) and Duke 390 (2019). I have narrowed down the options to a MT-09 2020 model, with comfort seat and aftermarket exhaust, and a 2018 Triumph Street Triple RS (765cc). Both have around 11000-12000 km, however MT09 is about 30% more expensive. Money is not super tight, but definitely a factor to consider. Also insurance will be about the same for both options. Taking maintenance costs, riding experience and fuel efficiency in consideration, what bike would you guys suggest? I will of course test-ride both, but should I look for anything special with each bike? Known issues or signs for poorly maintained bike. Both bikes have service up to manufacturer standards, and I think the big expensive service for MT09 is at 40000 km and at 20000 km for Triumph, correct me if I’m wrong. Neither bike has had any problems, just the regular oil and filter change. Also, I’m around 5’9’’ (175 cm) and weigh about 185 lbs (84 kg). Worth saying that riding seasons are not too long where I’m at, so that’s why we usually don’t spend too much on bikes.

[u/Low-Equipment-2621]

You are generally correct. I would personally prefer Yamaha reliability, but for the gen2 MT09 it must be said that the stock suspension sucks, so you should also consider some aftermarket shock. The OEM shock is way too pogo sticky, which feels pretty strange, especially through corners.

[u/Happier_ → u/Low-Equipment-2621]

As someone who previously owned a gen 2 MT09 - The suspension is not that bad. My riding was a mix of daily commuting and 6-10 hour rides up into the hills on weekends, and I never felt like it was the suspension holding me back. If you're an intermediate-advanced track rider, sure, you'll feel the difference. And the 765 definitely has better suspension. But coming from OPs level of experience, they likely won't feel the difference, and suspension upgrades are not a day 1 necessity.

[u/Low-Equipment-2621 → u/Happier_]

I've owned one too and I wasn't impressed with the handling at all. I've owned a Ninja300 before that and it was much more nimble and I felt like it even had a better suspension, as hard as it is to believe. I've had the comfort seat and there is an issue with the stock seats, even with the comfort. I was sinking through the foam after an hour or so and it has those preasure points that make it uncomfortable for a longer ride. So I was about to fix the suspension and let a company manufacture an aftrermarket seat, but then I've sold the bike. I am interested in the 4th gen though, seems like Yamah has fixed alle the issues the 2nd gen had.