Yamaha MT-09 vs Zero FXE
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Yamaha MT-09 and Zero FXE are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The Yamaha MT-09 undercuts the Zero FXE by about $1,896, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Yamaha MT-09 leads on power with 119 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
Our pickYamaha
Yamaha MT-09
Zero
Zero FXEThe verdict
The Yamaha MT-09 edges it overall at 8.6/10, but the Zero FXE wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Zero FXE
A2-legal, 46 hp, forgiving to learn on.
Yamaha MT-09
119 hp and 0.62 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Yamaha MT-09
Our 8.6/10 at $10,599, the most bike per dollar.
Zero FXE
131 kg with an 836 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Yamaha MT-09
Our top score in this matchup at 8.6/10.
Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.
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Yamaha MT-09 vs Zero FXE: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Yamaha MT-09 or the Zero FXE?
The Yamaha MT-09 makes the most power at 119 hp and 93 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Yamaha MT-09 or the Zero FXE?
The Yamaha MT-09 is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $10,599.
Which is lighter, the Yamaha MT-09 or the Zero FXE?
The Zero FXE is the lightest at 131 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the Yamaha MT-09 or the Zero FXE?
For a new rider we'd point to the Zero FXE: A2-legal, 46 hp and 131 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
