Adventure awaits with the new Ténéré 700 World Raid
Yamaha’s updated 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid brings new electronics, revised suspension and improved comfort aimed at serious long-distance adventure riders.
Yamaha’s Ténéré 700 World Raid has been a mainstay in the adventure market since its launch, and for 2026 it’s been given a substantial update aimed at improving comfort, control and capability on and off the road. While it looks broadly similar to before, almost every major system has been tweaked or replaced to bring it in line with the latest generation of adventure bikes.
At the heart of the new model is the familiar 689cc CP2 parallel-twin engine, now updated to meet Euro 5+ emissions standards. Yamaha says the revised air intake improves low-rpm torque, making it easier to handle technical terrain or tight city traffic. The throttle cables have been replaced with a ride-by-wire system, Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T), which introduces two selectable power modes. ‘Sport’ gives the sharper response for spirited riding, while ‘Explorer’ smooths delivery for loose or wet surfaces.
Supporting this new system is a 6-axis IMU controlling lean-sensitive traction control, slide control and ABS. Riders can select Street, Off-Road or Off modes for the traction and slide systems, adjusting how much help they want from the electronics. ABS can be toggled too, with options to switch it off entirely or just at the rear wheel for off-road use. Steel-braided brake lines feed Brembo callipers and large 282mm discs, aiming to improve consistency and feel.
Gear shifting has been refined with revised dog engagement for smoother changes, and the clutch position has moved slightly forward for better ergonomics. A quickshifter is available as an optional extra.
A pair of new aluminium fuel tanks sit lower and closer to the centre of the bike, together holding 23 litres of fuel – enough for roughly 300 miles between stops. Despite the capacity, the tanks are lighter than before and help centralise mass. The redesigned one-piece rally-style seat and narrower tank tops make it easier to move around when standing on the pegs or leaning into turns.
The suspension has also seen major updates. The front now uses fully adjustable KYB forks with larger 46mm tubes and a Kashima coating to reduce friction. The rear features a new KYB Monocross shock with increased stroke and a revised linkage for more progressive travel. Wheel travel is now 230mm at the front and 220mm at the rear. A new 16-step adjustable steering damper has been added, allowing riders to fine-tune feedback for rough trails or high-speed road work.
Comfort and tech have taken a step forward, too. Cruise control and a speed limiter are now standard, alongside a 6.3-inch full-colour TFT display offering three themes: Street, Explorer and Raid. The dash connects via Yamaha’s MyRide app for phone notifications, music and navigation, all controlled through new, simplified handlebar switches. A USB-C charging port sits nearby.
Other updates include a new LED headlight assembly, revised windscreen and removable side deflectors, larger footpegs with removable rubber inserts and a side-stand switch repositioned for easier operation.
For 2026, the Ténéré 700 World Raid will be offered in Redline White or Midnight Black. Pricing and delivery dates will vary by market, but Yamaha says the bike will begin reaching European dealers in 2026.
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Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
