Used test: YAMAHA MT-07 ALMOST PERFECT
Anyone who thinks making money from making motorcycles is a sure thing should look at the recent woes of Yamaha. Around 2010, the Japanese firm’s model range was looking lacklustre. It had some decent enough bikes in the range like the R1 and R6 sportsbikes, and its recently introduced 1200 Super Tenere adventure bike and FZ8 roadster. But they lacked sufficient appeal to sell enough, with their high price tags particularly harming their commercial success. It was not a good time to be involved with the brand, especially if you were a dealer. Too few people wanted to buy a Yamaha.
Everyone at the factory knew this, and work was already under way to try and improve matters. Lots of serious meetings resulted in decisions to do things differently and make Yamahas attractive again. The first signs of change came late in 2012 when a three-cylinder 847cc engine was unveiled at the Cologne Show. Viewers were impressed, but there was
