Yamaha is gearing up for an exciting product surge, with senior executives hinting at 10 new models over the next three years. Among the most anticipated possibilities are a revived, road-legal Yamaha R1 and a new three-cylinder Tenere, positioned to replace the discontinued XT1200Z at the top of Yamaha’s adventure lineup.
The insights came during an exclusive interaction at EICMA 2024 in Milan, where Yamaha’s European leadership emphasized that combustion engines remain their primary focus. Despite experimenting with EV, hybrid, and hydrogen concepts, the brand says the market isn’t demanding a shift to electric just yet.
European President Olivier Prévost was clear: the company’s priority is still petrol power, and that includes the future of four-cylinder superbikes. Yamaha’s iconic R1 left European showrooms after failing to meet Euro 5+ norms, but the company now suggests a comeback is being seriously evaluated.
European Director of Land Mobility Clément Villet added that changing market conditions—especially the rising interest in mid-capacity sportbikes—have renewed attention on full-size superbikes. However, a return won’t be rushed. Yamaha insists a new R1 would need to deliver a significant step up in performance and handling, not just meet regulations.
On the adventure side, Yamaha is exploring a CP3-powered Tenere using the same triple-cylinder platform found in the MT-09 and Tracer 9. Engineers are evaluating whether a bigger Tenere can stay true to its rugged DNA with 21/18-inch wheels and genuine off-road ability.
While Yamaha has not confirmed timelines, the direction is clear: big changes are brewing, and enthusiasts can expect updates as development progresses.
