Yamaha Niken 900
The Yamaha Niken 900 has a top speed of ~180 km/h (estimated; Yamaha does not officially publish a top speed figure), produces 115 hp and weighs 263 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.5/10.
The Yamaha Niken was introduced in 2018 as a production version of the MWT-9 concept, featuring Yamaha's Leaning Multi-Wheel (LMW) technology with two front wheels for enhanced cornering stability. It uses an 847cc CP3 triple-cylinder engine shared with the MT-09 platform, making it a unique fusion of sport and stability. The Niken is notable for being one of the first mass-production three-wheeled leaning motorcycles, offering car-like front grip while retaining a traditional motorcycle riding experience.
115 hp
Power
87.5 Nm
Torque
263 kg
Weight
~180 km/h (estimated; Yamaha does not officially publish a top speed figure)
Top Speed
5.5–6.5 L/100km (approximately 15–18 km/L, real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Unique Leaning 3-Wheel Tech
The Niken uses Yamaha's LMW (Leaning Multi-Wheel) technology with two front wheels that lean like a traditional motorcycle, providing dramatically improved cornering grip and stability in wet or slippery conditions.
Watch the Steering Linkage
The complex front suspension and steering linkage system requires regular inspection and lubrication — neglected maintenance can lead to expensive repairs, so always verify service history before buying used.
Holds Value Well
Due to its niche status and limited production numbers, the Niken retains resale value better than many standard motorcycles, though its higher-than-average new price (~$15,000 USD) means the used market can still offer strong deals.
Generations & Specs by Year
Initial launch of leaning multi-wheel three-wheeler with 847cc CP3 engine; no major generational change yet.
Used Buyer Review
"A genuinely useful machine for the right rider, not a novelty."
$8,000-$12,500 usedThe Niken is genuinely weird, and that's exactly the point. That three-wheel leaning front end isn't a gimmick once you've ridden it — it inspires serious confidence in corners and wet weather that no conventional bike can match. The MT-09 engine underneath is punchy and characterful, though the older 847cc unit in earlier models can feel rough at low revs. Used prices have softened nicely, which is where these make real sense. Check the LMW linkage carefully on any used example — it's complex machinery and servicing isn't cheap. Front tyre replacement costs three times what you'd expect, and not every dealer will touch it. Yamaha's reliability record here is solid, but find a specialist-serviced example if you can. Look for bikes with full history and avoid anything that's been dropped, because assessing front-end damage is genuinely tricky. It won't appeal to everyone and it attracts stares at every fuel stop. But if wet-weather confidence or physical limitations make conventional riding difficult, the Niken solves real problems rather than invented ones.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Yamaha Niken 900 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 2 CRITICALRock handlebars, feel for looseness in linkage joints
Inspect both front tires for uneven tread patterns
Slow-speed figure-eights, check for smooth lean movement
Check service history, look for rust around front linkage
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Reliable engine, expensive unique front-end maintenance
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Yamaha Niken 900
Compare Yamaha Niken 900 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
More Yamaha Niken 900 Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Yamaha Niken 900? +
LMW front suspension wear and play: Rock handlebars, feel for looseness in linkage joints (serious) | Front tire wear uneven or premature: Inspect both front tires for uneven tread patterns (moderate) | Steering feel notchy or binding cold: Slow-speed figure-eights, check for smooth lean movement (moderate)
Is the Yamaha Niken 900 a good motorcycle? +
A genuinely useful machine for the right rider, not a novelty. Rating: 7.5/10. Best for: Riders wanting wet-weather confidence above everything else. Avoid if: You prioritise light, nimble urban commuting.
What is the horsepower of the Yamaha Niken 900? +
The Yamaha Niken 900 produces 115 hp @ 10,000 rpm, with 87.5 Nm @ 8,500 rpm of torque. Top speed: ~180 km/h (estimated; Yamaha does not officially publish a top speed figure).
Is the Yamaha Niken 900 good for beginners? +
Not really — the Yamaha Niken 900 is better for experienced riders (115 hp can be intimidating). Riders wanting wet-weather confidence above everything else Avoid if: You prioritise light, nimble urban commuting
Is the Yamaha Niken 900 reliable? +
Owners report 2 critical issues to watch for on the Yamaha Niken 900, notably: LMW front suspension wear and play (Rock handlebars, feel for looseness in linkage joints). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Yamaha Niken 900 good for daily use? +
Riders wanting wet-weather confidence above everything else Fuel: 5.5–6.5 L/100km (approximately 15–18 km/L, real-world average).
How fast is the Yamaha Niken 900? +
The Yamaha Niken 900 reaches a top speed of ~180 km/h (estimated; Yamaha does not officially publish a top speed figure), producing 115 hp at 263 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Yamaha Niken 900? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Yamaha Niken 900, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/yamaha/niken-900/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
