While the Yamaha Niken’s most visible innovation is its revolutionary front end, underneath that distinctive design beats the heart of a thoroughbred sport-touring machine. Let’s take a deep dive into the Niken GT’s powerplant and performance characteristics.
The Legendary CP3 Engine
Original CP3 (2018-2022)
The original Yamaha Niken and Niken GT released in 2018 came equipped with Yamaha’s celebrated 847cc liquid-cooled, inline three-cylinder CP3 engine. This powerplant was derived from Yamaha’s popular MT-09 motorcycle, a platform already well-respected in the motorcycling world.
Key specifications of the original CP3 engine included:
- 847cc displacement
- Liquid-cooled design
- Inline three-cylinder configuration
- Approximately 115bhp (85kW/116PS) at 10,000rpm
- Torque of around 64.5 lb-ft
Updated CP3 (2023-2024)
In 2023, Yamaha released an upgraded Niken GT with an expanded 890cc (888cc) version of the same inline three-cylinder CP3 engine. The increase in displacement came from lengthening the cylinder stroke, resulting in a powerplant that addressed the feedback from original Niken riders who wanted more low-end grunt.
The updated engine featured:
- 890cc displacement
- 8% heavier crank for improved engine braking
- Enhanced low-end power delivery for better acceleration off the line
- Euro 5 compliance
The Triple Cylinder Advantage
The CP3’s triple-cylinder design hits a sweet spot in motorcycle engine architecture, offering several advantages:
- Balanced Power Delivery: Three-cylinder engines blend the torquey character of a twin with the high-end power of an inline-four, creating a remarkably versatile powerplant.
- Linear Torque Curve: The CP3 platform is celebrated for its smooth, predictable power delivery, making it easier to manage in varying conditions.
- Distinctive Sound: Triple-cylinder engines produce a unique, melodious exhaust note that many riders find addictive—not as thumping as a twin or as screaming as a four, but a character all its own.
- Compact Design: More compact than an inline-four, the CP3 engine allows for better mass centralization, contributing to the Niken’s balanced handling despite its unconventional front end.
Riding Modes
Like most premium sport-touring machines, the Yamaha Niken GT features multiple riding modes that allow riders to tailor the motorcycle’s performance to different conditions and preferences:
- Street Mode: The default setting offering full power with standard throttle response
- Sport Mode: Designed for more spirited riding with sharper throttle response
- Rain Mode: A safer option with power reduced by approximately 18% and gentler throttle mapping
- Custom Mode: Allows riders to personalize settings to their exact preferences
Here’s a quick video clip from XavZik’ & OnOffroad in France.
These riding modes work in conjunction with the Niken’s electronics package to deliver an optimized riding experience across different scenarios.
Quick Shifter
Original Quick Shifter (2018-2022)
The original Niken came equipped with a factory quick shifter that allowed for clutchless upshifts while on the throttle. This feature enhances the sporty character of the motorcycle, providing smooth, fast gear changes with minimal interruption to drive.
Enhanced Quick Shifter (2023-2024)
For the 2023 update, Yamaha improved the quick shifter system to enable both upshifts and downshifts without using the clutch. This bidirectional quick shifter (often called a “blipper” system) makes for seamless gear changes in either direction, further enhancing the sport-touring credentials of the Niken GT.
Traction Control System
The Niken GT features a sophisticated traction control system that monitors wheel speeds and adjusts power delivery to prevent rear wheel slip during acceleration. The system offers:
- Two different levels of intervention
- An “off” setting for riders who prefer complete control
- Enhanced calibration in the 2023 update
This electronic aid adds an additional layer of safety and confidence, particularly valuable when riding in changing road conditions.
Ride-by-Wire Throttle (2023 Update)
As part of the 2023 update, Yamaha implemented a Ride-by-Wire throttle system on the Niken GT. This electronically controlled throttle system offers:
- More precise throttle control
- Smoother power delivery
- Better integration with the bike’s electronic riding aids
- Euro 5 compliance
Throttle image via Stirlings Powersports 
Yamaha leveraged their extensive experience with Chip-Controlled throttle (YCC-T) technology from other vehicles in their lineup to ensure a responsive and natural feel despite the electronic mediation.
The Niken GT Performance Experience
The combination of the powerful CP3 engine with the Niken’s unique three-wheel configuration creates a riding experience unlike anything else on the market. The enhanced grip and stability offered by the dual front wheels allow riders to confidently exploit the engine’s performance capabilities.
The Niken GT particularly excels in scenarios where conventional motorcycles might struggle to put power down effectively:
- Accelerating hard out of corners
- Powering through sections with changing road surfaces
- Maintaining momentum on winding mountain roads
- Quick overtaking maneuvers on wet or uneven surfaces
The bike’s overall performance character makes it equally adept at spirited rides through challenging terrain and relaxed long-distance touring.
Conclusion
While the Niken’s revolutionary front end may be its most talked-about feature, the motorcycle’s heart—its CP3 engine and electronics package—delivers a riding experience that lives up to the promise of its innovative design. The combination of triple-cylinder power, advanced electronics, and the confidence-inspiring front end creates a uniquely capable sport-touring platform.
For riders looking for a machine that can handle everything from adrenaline-pumping mountain passes to relaxed highway cruising, the Niken GT offers a compelling blend of performance and stability.
Are you a Niken owner? How would you describe the engine and performance characteristics? Share your experiences with our community!
