Introduction to the Yamaha Niken GT
What is a niken? Welcome to my obsession! A Niken or Niken GT is an amazingly innovative 3-wheeled sport-touring motorcycle designed by Yamaha Motor. It was first released in 2018 and received its final refresh in 2023. Let’s consider why I consider the Niken GT my dream ticket to getting back into motorcycling! Let’s take a Niken for a spin via the following clip from the Niken GT Videos page.
The Yamaha Niken has two wheels up front, unlike traditional motorcycles. This unique 2-wheel up-front design inspired the name Niken, which comes from the Japanese words Ni (二) and ken (剣), Ni meaning two and ken meaning sword or blade. See down below for how to pronounce Niken!
Some things we cover here (shortcuts):
- 2023 Updates – Revolution Reloaded
- 2023 Niken GT specs
- Niken Discontinued | Why I still want one
- FAQ
LMW System
The Niken front wheels steer and lean in unison, and this pioneering steering technology designed by Yamaha is called Leaning Multi-Wheel, or LMW for short.
The LMW system steers and tilts, yet it feels like a traditional motorcycle. Indeed, when riding the Niken, it’s easy to forget you have two wheels in front of you. However, the extra wheel up front means more stability and extra grip (in the dry and the wet), and therefore, Nikens offer a superior sense of added safety and security.
The front wheels are 15″ in diameter, so technically, you get about 80% more front-end grip than you could ever wish for on a regular motorbike. This extra front-end traction and stability give you confidence when cornering, providing riders with a more secure riding experience, particularly in challenging road conditions.
Here’s a video clip of the LMW system from YAMAHA MOTOR in Japan.
CP3 Engine
The original Yamaha Niken and Niken GT released in 2018 came with an 847cc, liquid-cooled, inline three-cylinder Yamaha CP3 engine derived from Yamaha’s popular MT-09 motorcycle. The CP3 platform is renowned in the motorcycling world. It is respected and celebrated for its smooth power delivery and linear torque curve, translating to a more predictable and enjoyable riding experience. The Niken produces about 115bhp, or 85kW 116PS/10,000rpm, combined with a torque of around 64.5 lb-ft, ensuring that riders have ample power for city commuting and long-distance touring. See 2023 CP3 Engine Update.
Riding Modes
As you’d expect from a Sport Tourer, the Yamaha Niken has multiple riding modes. These modes allow riders to tailor the motorcycle’s performance to varying conditions and preferences. Whether navigating through urban traffic or cruising on highway stretches, you can choose a mode to optimize power delivery and handling characteristics. The modes on the Niken are as follows:
- Street – offers full power
- Sport – set up for a sharper throttle response
- Rain – safer riding mode with 18% reduced power
- Custom – the rider can customize this mode to suit their needs
Cruise Control
Cruise Control comes as standard on the Niken and Niken GT. This feature allows riders to maintain a constant speed without continuous throttle input, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort on extended rides. The ease of activating and deactivating cruise control on the Niken makes it even more ideal as a grand touring motorcycle.
Here are the original 2018 cruise control buttons (photo Yamaha Motor Europe).
(Link to the latest 2023 cruise controls)
Quick shifter
The original Niken comes with a factory quick shifter, which allows on-throttle upshifting of gears without using the clutch for smooth, fast gear shifts with minimal loss of drive. Yamaha updated the quick shifter for 2023.
Traction Control System
Integral to the Niken GT’s safety features is its sophisticated traction control system, which comes with two settings, plus off. This system monitors and adjusts the power output to the rear wheel, significantly reducing the chances of wheel slip during acceleration. By maintaining optimal traction, the TCS increases rider confidence and safety, particularly on slippery or uneven surfaces. Yamaha further enhanced the Traction Control for the 2023 Niken GT.
Heated Grips
As most modern sports touring motorcycles should, heated grips come standard on the Niken GT, ensuring that your hands remain warm even in colder climates.
Instrument Panel
The 2018 Niken instrument panel is a simple LCD that provides information like speed, gear, driving mode, traction control, fuel, time, and trip meter. Look at the (2018-2022) Niken dashboard (photo Yamaha Motor Europe).
Considering that the Niken GT aims at the higher end of the grand touring market (and its LMW system offers an experience that no other bike can offer), this instrument panel design seemed low-tech. Fortunately, I expect that Yamaha felt the same way because the instrument panel was revised entirely to a nicer and modern 7″ color TFT for 2023.
Seating
The Niken has a very comfortable seat, as you’d expect for a sports tourer. A heated seat option is also available. The image below shows the original Niken/GT seat.
(The dimensions were slightly changed for the 2023 seat (see below) to help with easier reach to the ground.)
Suspension
The Niken’s suspension system includes fully adjustable front forks and a rear shock absorber. You can customize settings to match rider weights, riding styles, and road conditions. Unlike traditional motorcycles, the Niken has two forks on each front wheel. The furthest forward of these contain the actual shock absorbers, while the rear of these act as stabilizers, keeping the front wheels from shaking (much like you might see happen on a damaged shopping cart).
Luggage
The 2018-2022 Niken GTs came with rear panniers as standard. The panniers were semi-hard panniers, though, and after listening to reviews, Yamaha updated them to hard panniers with the 2023 model update. Here’s a pic of the 2018 luggage:
2023 Updates – Revolution Reloaded
Yamaha updated the Niken GT for 2023. It is now Euro 5 compliant. As you can see, it comes in a new Tech Black color with a bronze frame and accents. In response to upgrade requests for the original Niken GT, Yamaha has made the following additional updates: [Back to top]
New CP3 Engine (2023+)
Fast forward to 2023, and Yamaha released an upgraded Niken GT with an 888cc version of the same inline three-cylinder CP3 engine. (They increased the cylinder capacity by lengthening the cylinder stroke.) Along with an 8% heavier crank, which offers better engine braking, this updated engine provides higher power at the lower end for faster acceleration off the line, something original Niken reviewers had wanted to see as an upgrade to the original Niken engine.
New Quick shifter (2023+)
The 2023 Niken GT quick shifter was updated to allow for the changing of gears up and down through the gearbox—a natural and welcome evolution.
Updated Frame (2023+)
Yamaha slightly redesigned the Niken frame to accommodate the updated engine, which now tilts 5 degrees more forward, something you will notice if you view the old and new frames side-by-side. The LMW steering system has remained the same.
New Color TFT Display (2023+)
One of the standout features of the new 2023 Niken GT is the beautiful 7″ color TFT display, which serves as the central hub for the motorcycle’s information and settings. This high-resolution screen provides clear and concise data, including speed, gear position, fuel level, and riding mode status. The intuitive interface ensures that crucial information is readily accessible, allowing riders to stay informed without distraction. You can also change the theme of the display to suit your needs.
Here’s a quick video clip from XavZik’ & OnOffroad in France.
Here’s a close-up video of the same instrument panel on the Yamaha Tracer 9GT+ in Japan.
New Controls (2023+)
The handlebar controls were updated for 2023 and now include a joystick-type toggle to help you navigate the new TFT digital display menus. Below is an image of the updated Cruise Control buttons (photo Yamaha Motor Europe). They are an improvement over the original cruise controls. The above Tracer 9GT+ video clip demonstrates the same controls.
Revised Traction control (2023+)
Yamaha revised the Niken GT’s traction control for the 2023 refresh (although you can’t tell that from just looking at the bike).
Rear Suspension (with preload remote adjuster) (2023+)
Although it’s not visually noticeable, the rear suspension setup is modified to be more compliant than before for both solo riders and 2-up riders: The linkage is made from forged aluminum to keep weight to a minimum, and the link ratio has been changed along with the spring rate setting.
New Adjustable screen (2023+)
The stealthy, minimal look of the smaller screen on the original non-GT Niken (shown in the header image at the top) appealed to me. However, many Niken riders opted for larger third-party screens for longer-distance highway cruising. With the GT variant of the original Niken, Yamaha added their own more prominent, more practical screen (suitable for grand touring).
For 2023, the latest screen is now adjustable up and down by 70mm, helping with airflow depending on your height and needs, whether you want a little more air in your face or prefer a bubble of calm.
Here’s a video clip of the windscreen from MOTOBOB in the UK. (His full Niken review is linked on our Niken GT Videos page.)
New Ride by Wire throttle (2023+)
As part of the Euro 5 rules and regulations, the 2023 Niken GT now uses a Ride-By-Wire throttle system. This system, devoid of traditional cables, ensures a more responsive and efficient riding experience, adapting swiftly to the rider’s throttle inputs. The Yamaha team is no stranger to this technology after having developed their Chip-Controlled throttle (Y.C.C.T.) over many years on some of their other vehicles, including snowmobiles. Standard now on the latest Niken GT, this ride-by-wire throttle offers precise control and seamless acceleration.
Updated Seat
Suitable for touring, the Niken seat has always been comfortable and ergonomic, with a shape that supports natural posture and reduces fatigue. However, the overall size of the Niken, together with the width of the original seat, made it a little challenging for some riders to reach the ground comfortably.
This Japanese video demonstrates four people of different heights sitting on the 2018 Niken:
Updated for 2023, Yamaha narrowed the seat and lowered the height by 10mm to 825mm for easier reach to the ground. Here’s a pic of the latest seat:
Yamaha offers a visual rider scale checker on their website in Japan:
Link: Scale Checkスケール チェック 製品を対比できます。 (Opens in new tab)
USB (2023+)
The original Niken GT model used an older 12V cigarette lighter power source to power or charge accessories. A more convenient USB power source has now replaced that.
Hard Panniers (as requested)
The original Niken GT came with panniers not made from hard casing. They incorporated zips (zippers), which made them less ideal in torrential rain and potentially vulnerable and easy to break into.
Yamaha released a stylish, more durable hard case design for 2023. These latest panniers are key lockable, can fit a full-size helmet, and can be conveniently and quickly secured or removed when on the go, staying at a hotel, etc. If you want more customization, Yamaha offers various color accent panels for these panniers in their Niken GT Accessories range or slimmer panniers if you want to travel lighter or prefer a stealthier look.
Good Job Yamaha
These 2023 Niken GT upgrades were well-received and appreciated by motorcycle journalists and Niken GT riders. People asked for them, and Yamaha listened and gave them what they wanted. Most of them were considered necessary upgrades to improve the original Niken. So, good job, and thank you, Yamaha!
Overall Niken GT Performance
Combining the Niken’s powerful 890cc CP3 engine with the three-wheel configuration results in a unique and exhilarating riding experience that is confident-inspiring and fun. Thanks to the enhanced grip and stability offered by the dual front wheels, riders can tackle winding roads, sharp turns, and inclement weather with greater ease. The Niken GT’s 3-cylinder engine’s performance capabilities make it a versatile machine, equally adept at spirited rides through twisty mountain roads and comfortable on long-distance journeys.
Market (and who is it for?)
Positioned in the market as a revolutionary sport-touring machine, the Yamaha Niken GT appeals to riders seeking the thrill of motorcycling with a more comfortable level of safety. The three-wheel design improves grip and stability, especially when cornering, providing a sense of security and confidence lacking in traditional two-wheel motorcycles. The Niken is an attractive choice for those who prioritize safety without wanting to compromise on the joy of the ride.
You have to test ride one!
Unless you take one for a test ride, you might not appreciate the complete package that sets the Niken GT apart as a groundbreaking choice for riders looking for something beyond the same old two-wheeled experience. So many people who try the Niken seem to enjoy it. Alas, most of the people who criticize the Niken online have never tried riding one.
Public Reception
Yamaha has been quite challenged by the overall public reception of the Yamaha Niken GT. Sadly, Yamaha hasn’t sold enough Nikens to keep the production of the Niken alive. Here are my ideas on this topic.
- Many who have bought one say that it’s the best bike they’ve owned. 👍
- Those who ride one say that the Niken is incredibly fun to ride. 👍
- The Niken GT is expensive at £16000. 👎
- It’s quite large and fairly heavy for some people to push around when they are off the bike. 😐
- Most negative opinions about the Niken come from people who have never ridden one. 🙁
- Some people are embarrassed to try a 3-wheeled vehicle for fear of being labeled weak or less than a 2-wheeled biker. They imagine a 3-wheeler might be for older, infirm, inexperienced, or disabled riders. 👎
- The Niken GT is perfect for a select few free-thinking and certain types of people. ❤️ See my personal needs.
- There appear to be many happy Niken owners out there, plenty of whom can be found in the YouTube comments for Niken videos.
The Niken was discontinued in 2024!
Having dreamed for a few years of owning a Niken GT here in Japan, I was genuinely shocked to hear that Yamaha discontinued production of the Niken GT. It was very unexpected from my point of view. I hope the Niken’s evolution continues somehow, and not just through the smaller and lower capacity LMW siblings such as the Yamaha Tricity range. Perhaps the only way to pick up a Niken in the future will be via the secondhand market.
I found out through this Yamaha dealer YouTube channel in Japan:
FAQ
- Does it stand up on its own?
No. The Niken needs to be supported just like any other motorcycle. - Do I need a bike license?
Yes. The Niken is a full-size (large-capacity) motorcycle - Can I drive it on a car license?
No. - Is it a trike?
A trike typically has two wheels at the back or a wider spacing between the left and right wheels. - Can I drive it on a 3-wheeled license?
No. Because of the small distance between the two front wheels, the Niken is considered a motorcycle. Had the width been wider, it would have been considered a non-motorcycle. - Is it for disabled people?
Not really. Just like any other motorcycle, you still need to be able to put your feet on the ground to stand it up at a stoplight. - Why does it have four shocks at the front?
The shock on each front wheel furthest from the front contains the actual shock absorber. The secondary shock simply acts as a support to keep the wheel aligned; otherwise, the wheels would shake out of balance like a damaged supermarket trolley wheel. - Is the Niken still in production?
Unfortunately, no. Production stopped, and orders ended on April 21, 2024. - Can you drift the Niken?
Yes, you can! See: Can you drift the Niken? - Can you wheelie the Niken?
Yes, you can. See: Can you wheelie the Niken? - Can you go off-road?
The Niken isn’t an adventure bike. However, RevZilla took it off-road a little.
Niken Shenanigans / 悪戯
Can you drift the Niken?
Yes, you can! Here is a clip of Motorcyclist Magazine drifting the Niken:
Can you wheelie the Niken?
Yes, you can! Here is another clip from Motorcyclist Magazine, this time wheelieing the Niken:
Can you go off-road?
Bearing in mind that the Niken is not an adventure bike, here is a video clip of some light Niken off-roading from MotoBasic in Japan:
How to Pronounce Niken
The Japanese word Niken consists of two words with two syllables. When not related to the motorcycle model, the first word, Ni (二), is separately pronounced as knee (like I scraped my knee). The second part of the word, Ken (剣), when not related to the bike model, is pronounced in Japanese as Ken (like Barbie’s boyfriend).
However, when it comes to their motorcycle model name, even the Japanese Yamaha salespeople say Niken, i.e., nie (rhymes with sigh/lie/spy/why/pie/tie) plus kun (rhymes with fun). So, it’s pronounced like it’s spelled—Niken, not Nikken.
My Personal Needs and why I still want a Niken GT
As a returning motorcyclist with a fresh desire after a long break to get out and explore, the Niken GT appeals to me for the following reasons:
- I want to avoid repeating my old chapters of the past. The Niken GT offers me something new to experience and be excited about.
- I’m a farmer and an English teacher in Japan. So, often, it’s necessary to ride a tiny bit off-road through trees and on forest-like tracks to get to the fields where I work. The extra front-end stability the Niken offers in these situations is ideal. (I’m personally not a fan of adventure bikes.) See the off-road video clips above demonstrating the off-roading benefits of having two wheels up front.
- The Niken’s (GT model) included panniers easily carry the essentials I need to keep with me and nearby at work, including some of my tools in one case and enough space to store my helmet in the other.
- The Niken attracts a lot of curiosity and conversation. This appeals to me because I like to interact with people in my community and improve my Japanese, too.
- Having watched several Niken/Yamaha group rides and videos here in Japan, I intend to become a Niken GT owner and join some of those group rides.
Here are the 2023 Niken GT Specifications (via Yamaha)
2023 Niken GT Specifications
Engine
| Engine type | 4-stroke, Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valves, 3-cylinder, EURO5 |
| Displacement | 890cc |
| Bore x stroke | 78.0 × 62.1 mm |
| Compression ratio | 11.5 : 1 |
| Maximum power | 84.5 kW(114.9PS)/10000r/min |
| Maximum torque | 90.7 N m (9.2 kgf m)/7000 r/min |
| Lubrication system | Wet sump |
| Clutch type | Wet, Multiple Disc |
| Ignition system | TCI |
| Starter system | Electric |
| Transmission system | Constant Mesh, 6-speed |
| Final transmission | Chain |
| Fuel consumption | 5.8L/100km |
| CO2 emission | 135g/km |
| Fuel system | Fuel Injection |
Chassis
| Frame | Diamond |
| Caster angle | 20°00′ |
| Trail | 74mm |
| Front suspension system | Telescopic fork |
| Rear suspension system | Swingarm |
| Front travel | 110mm |
| Rear travel | 125mm |
| Front brake | 298mm |
| Rear brake | Hydraulic single disc, Ø 282 mm |
| Front tyre | 120/70R15M/C 56V Tubeless |
| Rear tyre | 190/55R17M/C 75V Tubeless |
| Track | 410mm |
Dimensions
| Overall length | 2150mm |
| Overall width | 875mm |
| Overall height | 1395mm to 1430mm |
| Seat height | 825mm |
| Wheel base | 1510mm |
| Minimum ground clearance | 150mm |
| Wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank) | 270kg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 18L / 4.0 gal |
| Oil tank capacity | 3.60L |
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
I fell in love with the Yamaha Niken GT, and it made sense as soon as I saw it. I’ve done other bikes, and I’ve done two wheels. Time has passed, and I’m hungry for a new experience. Two wheels up front offer more grip than one.
The Niken has enough tech, like riding modes and traction control, to keep me happy and safe and enough power to keep me smiling. The seating and riding position are comfortable for long journeys, and the adjustable windscreen does a good job. (I like the wind in my face around town and the taller screen setting for the highway.)
The bike is a remarkable choice for riders seeking sportiness and touring comfort, and with its revered CP3 engine, it’s equally at home pootling through the city or racing around a track. The ample side cases come with the Niken, adding to its practicality for extended travel.
The types of people the Niken might appeal to could be like me. They might like `different’. Some might appreciate a more guaranteed and safe way of having fun on a bike. They might be older but the Niken isn’t tiny and isn’t light with a wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank) of 270kg, so you must be young at heart to wheel it around when you’re off the bike, for example.
I still want a Niken GT in 2024/2025.
A Test Ride is a Must
For those intrigued by the potential of this extremely fun motorbike, a test ride is essential and the best way to appreciate its capabilities. Experiencing the Yamaha Niken GT firsthand will provide a deeper understanding of how its innovative features translate into real-world benefits for you.
Regardless of having been discontinued (for now), as the motorcycle industry continues to evolve, the Niken GT is poised to leave a significant mark, potentially influencing future designs and technologies for sport-touring motorcycles.
Niken videos
If you enjoyed the Niken videos on this page, we link to more on the Niken GT Videos page. Thanks for reading!
Meet the Niken Developers
To show respect to the developers of the Niken and to see the team, Young-machine.com interviewed them back in 2018. It’s in Japanese, and the interview is here: ヤマハNIKEN（ナイケン）を作った熱き男たち【開発者インタビュー】 (The Passionate Men Who Created Yamaha NIKEN [Developer Interview])
What are your thoughts on the Niken? Do you own one? Have you ridden one? Not your cup of tea?
Don’t forget if you’d like to write about your own Niken journey, you can Join as a Content Contributor here. Whatever bike you ride, you are welcome to share your opinions and journey with us here at Niken Peeps.