Equipped with the innovative transmission “Y-AMT”
Yamaha has equipped its mid-weight sports tourers, the Tracer 7 and Tracer 7 GT, with the newly developed Y-AMT (Yamaha Automated Manual Transmission). While completely eliminating clutch operation, the internal structure is an electronically controlled automatic transmission based on a conventional 6-speed manual. It does not use the complex dual-clutch structure of a DCT, making it lightweight and compact.
Riders can freely switch between “auto mode” and “manual mode.” In auto mode, the ECU analyzes throttle opening, vehicle speed, and RPM to automatically select the optimal gear, achieving smooth acceleration. Meanwhile, in manual mode, the left-hand button allows for optional up/down shifting, providing a sporty feeling of control. As no clutch operation is required, it significantly reduces stress when riding on congested roads or in urban areas, while also allowing the rider to actively change gears at will on mountain roads or when touring. It’s truly a “dual-sided” system.
Dedicated Y-AMT design that enhances the existing platform
With the introduction of the Y-AMT, the Tracer 7/7 GT’s transmission control unit and electronic throttle mapping have been reworked. This has resulted in smoother torque characteristics at low rpm and adjustments have been made to eliminate shock when changing gears. The engine is a 270-degree crank parallel twin-cylinder “CP2” unit (689 cc) that produces a maximum output of 73.4 PS/8750 rpm and a maximum torque of 67 Nm/6500 rpm. It also complies with Euro 5+ regulations, achieving a high level of both environmental friendliness and performance.
The Y-AMT unit is extremely light, weighing only a few kilograms less than conventional clutch mechanisms. This means that the vehicle balance is not affected and no major changes to handling or suspension settings are required, a clever design philosophy typical of Yamaha. As a result, both the Tracer 7 Y-AMT and Tracer 7 GT Y-AMT maintain nimble maneuverability while dramatically improving convenience.
Electronically controlled equipment and perfection as a touring bike
Models equipped with Y-AMT have not only seen an evolution in the transmission, but have also been updated to the latest generation in terms of equipment. Cruise control to reduce the burden on the rider, traction control according to the riding conditions, and three riding modes are standard equipment. They also feature a full LED headlight and a 5-inch TFT display, and pursue convenience with features such as notification display via smartphone linkage.
The “GT” model further emphasizes comfort, and comes standard with a large windscreen, hard side cases, and comfortable seats. This significantly improves comfort on long trips. The Tracer 7 GT Y-AMT is truly worthy of being called the perfect “mid-size automatic touring bike.”
Yamaha’s aim in establishing the Y-AMT
Yamaha has taken a new approach to Honda, which has previously possessed DCT technology, with a lightweight and simple automatic transmission mechanism. Because the Y-AMT is internally based on existing MTs, it has the advantage of being easy to maintain and minimizing weight gain. There is a strong possibility that this technology will be rolled out to other mid- to big-class models in the future.
The Tracer 7/7 GT Y-AMT not only offers a new option for riders who value touring and convenience, but also heralds the beginning of a new riding style known as “clutchless sports.” Eliminating the hassle of clutch operation without compromising the enjoyment of riding, the Y-AMT is truly a symbol of Yamaha’s vision of “free and unrestricted riding.”
