A decade after the first TDM850 appeared, Yamaha has taken its big twin one step further with the launch of a new-generation TDM900.
Lighter and more powerful than its legendary predecessor, the latest TDM delivers quicker acceleration, more agile handling, and stronger braking.
With an innovative 270-degree crank that gives a staggered firing sequence, the TDM900's engine pumps out massive heaps of torque for effortless overtaking and accelerating out of tight corners. And when you are in a more relaxed frame of mind this flexible twin loves to purr along the backroads with minimum effort.
The forks have a generous 150mm of travel - about half that of a dedicated trail bike, but still much more than your average supersports. The rear shock has been redesigned with full adjustment to make it better suited to fast solo riding or two-up touring. And the brakes have been pinched from the R1 and R6 sportsbikes, so there is masses of stopping power.
The engine has been moved slightly forward in the frame, and tipped back into a more upright position. This brings the weight distribution closer to the ideal of 50/50 front to rear, and makes space for a roomier seat and passenger grabrail.
The aluminium Deltabox frame and 40mm longer swingarm of the new TDM900 help slash the weight by 8kg compared to the TDM850. The chassis is also more rigid for better high-speed stability.
The 900 remains true to the original TDM concept of a neat balance between sports bike performance and big trailie practicality. The TDM has always been popular on the Continent, but we Brits have been stuck in a supersports rut for too long. With lower insurance and better economy, the TDM900 is a bike you can live with day in, day out.
