Yamaha T7 Concept Unveiled in Milan! (Gallery and Video)
Rennie Scaysbrook | November 7, 2016
Yamaha. Build this bike. Please.
Yamaha Europe has pulled the covers off this stunning T7 Concept machine at EICMA in Milan, today.
This bike, it must be stressed, is only a concept and not a production model, however Yamaha Europe did confirm at the press conference a production version – which will no doubt not look as utterly badass as this – will be ready for the 2018 model year.
The T7 takes the same CP2 engine that sits in Yamaha FZ-07 (and XSR700 in Europe and Australasia), and turns it into a dirt-ready weapon – and a nod to the first XT600Z Tenere, launched 33 years ago at the Paris Motor Show.
That machine, nor the XT660Z variant, never made it to U.S. shores, which is a shame, considering it was such an awesome overland weapon. This T7 Concept thus represents the new era of adventure riding, with Yamaha saying via their press release, “Many existing mid-size adventure models are perceived as being too road oriented and too sophisticated, and are unsuited to real off road riding. The adventure world needs a new kind of motorcycle that can offer the genuine long distance versatility and pure durability of the original Ténéré, combined with contemporary design plus cutting edge engine and chassis technology.”
The T7 Concept uses the 700cc CP2 engine in an all-new chassis developed in conjunction with the Yamaha Factory Dakar racers; there’s also an aluminum fuel tank, four-projector LED headlight, a carbon fairing and skidplate, and a custom made Akrapovič exhaust, as well as high specification KYB front suspension.
Here’s hoping Yamaha doesn’t stray too far from this incredible looking concept when they eventually release their new adventure weapon.
As the release says, “A new chapter from the book of legends will be on the street – and on the dirt – from 2018.”
Oooo goodie!
