- Yamaha is considering a comeback for the R1 as a Euro5-plus-compliant superbike.
- Development of a possible Ténéré model based on CP3 confirmed.
- XSR700 to be discontinued, no Euro5-plus model planned.
Yamaha is repositioning its model range. In discussions at EICMA in Milan, the manufacturer’s European management outlined the future of its sports and adventure models as well as its direction in the retro segment. It became clear that the focus will remain firmly on combustion engines.
Return of the R1 within reach
The statement by Yamaha’s European president that the motorcycle market currently shows no demand for electric drives underscores the strategic focus on classic combustion engines. Despite concept studies with alternative drives, the group continues to see the conventional engine as the main development topic.
The R1 disappeared from European roads in early 2024 after no update to Euro5-plus was made. But now this chapter is apparently being reevaluated. The European director for land mobility explained: “CP4 is not obsolete. When the decision was made that the R1 would only be available for the racetrack, market conditions were different.” Growing demand in the mid-displacement class is said to have rekindled interest in large superbikes.
The idea of bringing the R1 back onto the road is therefore being re-examined. However, a simple retrofit for Euro5-plus does not seem to be considered sufficient internally. Further statements indicate that a possible new edition would have to be significantly upgraded in terms of performance and chassis in order to meet the company’s own standards.
Adventure segment: Revised Ténéré planned at the top of the range
There is also clearly a need for action in the adventure segment. Since the discontinuation of the XT1200Z, there has been no option with a larger displacement above the Ténéré 700. Yamaha confirms that engineers are currently working on a model above the Ténéré 700, with the CP3 three-cylinder engine as a possible basis.
Such a model is intended to preserve the characteristics of the Ténéré family. According to Yamaha, this necessarily includes 18-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels and a clear off-road profile. Whether and how the three-cylinder can be adapted without compromising the typical character of the model is currently being investigated. There is no timetable.
XSR700: No successor for the retro model
Meanwhile, a glance at the Sport Heritage range reveals a gap. The XSR700 was quietly removed from the range at the end of 2024 and, according to Yamaha Motor UK, will not receive a Euro5-plus update. It is still listed in several European countries due to remaining stock, but the end of the model is considered foreseeable in the long term.
The other models with CP2 engines are not affected. The MT-07, Tracer 7, Ténéré 700, and R7 have been updated to continue to meet current emission standards. This leaves a significant performance gap between the XSR125 and XSR900, with Yamaha currently not confirming a new mid-range model in the retro segment.
Outlook: Many question marks, but a clear direction
According to Yamaha, it plans to launch around ten new models within the next three years. Although no specific dates have been announced yet, the company has left no doubt about its future prioritization of classic combustion engines. The brand is likely to significantly revamp its model range in both the superbike and adventure segments.
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