The Yamaha Tracer 700 has been given a makeover for 2020 with aggressive new looks, minor tweaks to the engine and changes to help improve its long-distance riding credentials.
The mid-weight adventure sports bike has proved popular since its launch back in 2016, thanks in part to its versatility as an excellent commuter, a fun weekend steed, and a capable long-distance tourer, all wrapped up in an affordable package.
In fact, manufacturing fun, reliable and affordable motorcycles is a formula that’s been working well for Yamaha in recent times, most notably for us adventure bikers with the launch of the Ténéré 700 earlier in 2019.
The new Tracer 700 uses the same 689cc CP2 parallel-twin engine found in previous version of the bike and in the Ténéré, with minor updates for 2020. These include changes to the fuel injection, ignition, and exhaust settings, and a modified exhaust system, all helping to ensure the bike meets the latest Euro 5 emissions standards.
However, it’s in the looks department that the changes to the Tracer 700 for 2020 are most noticeable. The bike has been given a sleeker front end, with new slanted, twin LED headlights providing a more predatory style than the previous model. This, combined with a less angular fairing, helps give the bike an almost futuristic appearance.
Yamaha says these styling updates will also help boost the Tracer 700’s long-distance touring credentials, with the redesigned fairing and updated handguards providing greater weather protection. The bike’s screen has also been updated for 2020 with the aim of increasing comfort at higher speeds and on longer journeys. The screen can be adjusted by up 60mm using just one hand.
The Tracer 700’s handlebars have been made 34mm wider to help create a more commanding and comfortable riding position. The handlebars also feature an ‘accessory bridge’ to attach your SatNav or phone to. There is still no TFT dash on the Tracer 700, Yamaha instead opting for a negative LCD display.
The 2020 bike retains a 17l fuel tank and will be available in three colours – icon grey, sonic grey, and phantom blue. It will be available in Yamaha dealers from March 2020.
The 2019 Tracer 700 will set you back around £7,399, but there is no news yet on a price for the 2020 model.
You can watch the 2020 Tracer 700 in action for yourself in this promotional video from Yamaha.
