Motorcycle specifications YamahaT7 Concept 2017 Desert dawn

Although the trend is towards maxi-trailers, Yamaha has no intention of abandoning one of the key sectors for which it is best known: medium-displacement adventure bikes. In Milan, the T7 concept heralded the revival of an emblematic Yamaha model, the legendary XT600Z Ténéré, unveiled 33 years ago at the Paris Motor Show.

The famous XT600Z Ténéré has won over a wide variety of riders who have adored its simplicity, ruggedness and competitive pedigree. Derived from the bikes developed by Yamaha for the Dakar Rally, and ridden at the time by legendary riders such as Stéphane Peterhansel, this trail bike has become one of the best-selling models in Europe.

In its first 10 years, between 1984 and 1994, 61,000 units were sold. Today, the Ténéré still attracts a loyal following, including many proud owners who are members of clubs dedicated to this model.

The original spirit of the Ténéré, which made Yamaha one of the biggest names in rally-raiding and adventure with a capital "A", is still firmly anchored in the company's DNA today. For Yamaha, adventure represents a unique way of appreciating motorcycling: sensations of total freedom and discovery as you explore exceptional sites not served by road.

Today, few models are capable of going after ruts and dunes. The world of adventure needs a new type of motorcycle capable of offering real versatility over long distances, reliability identical to that of the original Ténéré, and a contemporary look combined with a state-of-the-art engine and chassis.

A committed team of engineers, designers and product managers from the Yamalube Yamaha Official Rally Team in France, R&D in Italy and GK Design in the Netherlands has developed this new T7 concept. Each member of the team is driven by the desire to create a motorcycle that would fit the needs of an adventurer and represent what Yamaha imagines for its next-generation Adventure range.

Capturing the DNA that has made Yamaha one of the most iconic names in rallying, the Yamaha T7 concept is a fully operational prototype. It has been developed to achieve a perfect balance between road and dirt track performance.

This lightweight machine features an all-new chassis created from the unanimously acclaimed twin-cylinder. The MT-07's CP2 is designed to deliver raging torque combined with easy power transfer to the ground for perfect traction in all situations.

This concept is equipped with an aluminum fuel tank, 4 LED headlights, a carbon fairing and skid plate, and a custom Akrapovi? exhaust system. Also featuring an ultra-perfected KYB fork, the T7 represents a vision of the ideal trail bike. It will play a major role in the development of Yamaha's new generation of Adventure models.

A new chapter in the book of legends will open on the roads - and tracks - from 2018.

News and media credits: Yamaha