Yamaha has announced the 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid, its top-spec long-range adventure bike, for the US market—available elsewhere since 2022—arriving in May at a starting MSRP of $12,999. Key upgrades include dual 6.1-gallon fuel tanks, enhanced KYB suspension, 6-axis IMU with advanced rider aids, cruise control, and rally-inspired features, coinciding with surging American interest in events like the Dakar Rally.
The 2026 Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid builds on its Dakar Rally heritage with long-range capability via dual aluminum fuel tanks holding 6.1 gallons (23 liters)—1.5 kg lighter than prior—offering around 300-311 miles of range. It features a dirt-focused chassis with 255mm ground clearance, 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels shod in Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires, and a one-piece rally-style seat optimized for seated-to-standing transitions.
The 689cc liquid-cooled CP2 parallel-twin engine meets Euro 5+ standards, with a redesigned air intake for improved low-rpm torque and linear delivery. Ride-by-wire Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) enables Sport mode for sharp road response and Explorer for smoother off-road/wet conditions, switchable via handlebar. A 6-axis IMU supports lean-sensitive Traction Control (TCS: STREET, OFF-ROAD, OFF), Slide Control (SCS), and ABS (cornering ON, REAR OFF, FULL OFF). Braking uses Brembo calipers on 282mm front discs with steel-braided lines.
New for the T7 lineup: cruise control (adjustable in 1 km/h or 10 km/h steps from third gear) and speed limiter. Fully adjustable KYB suspension includes 230mm-travel 46mm front forks with Kashima coating and preload, plus a rear shock with 220mm travel (106mm stroke); a 16-position steering damper enhances control. Ergonomics improve with forward-shifted clutch actuation (35° clockwise), roomier clutch cover, four-beam LED headlight (one-screw adjustable), and windscreen with removable side deflectors.
A 6.3-inch TFT display offers STREET, EXPLORER, and RAID themes, with Bluetooth connectivity via Yamaha’s MyRide app for navigation, calls, and route tracking, plus a waterproof USB-C port. Available in Redline White or Midnight Black, it joins the standard Ténéré 700 ($10,999 MSRP from March in Team Yamaha Blue or Tech Titanium).
The launch aligns with growing US rally raid participation: Dakar Rally (since 1978) saw Ricky Brabec's first American bike win in 2020, Casey Currie's side-by-side victory, and Brock Heger's stage wins. Local events like Baja Rally and Sonora Rally (2023 World Rally-Raid Championship round) fuel demand, alongside rivals like KTM 450 Rally Replica, Honda CRF450 Rally, and GasGas RC 450F Rally Replica.