Yamaha’s top-spec Ténéré 700–the World Raid— is back for 2026 with a fresh round of updates. It still sticks to the familiar formula—dual tanks, dirt-focused chassis, and that proven CP2 engine— but nearly every major system has been tweaked to improve how it handles long distances and rough terrain. 

Now tuned to meet Euro 5+ standards, Yamaha says the latest iteration of the 689cc parallel twin is designed to deliver more linear and usable torque. Specifically, a redesigned air intake has resulted in an added boost of low-rpm torque for better slow-speed maneuvering—particularly useful in technical off-road sections.

The 2026 model now also uses Yamaha’s Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T), replacing traditional throttle cables. This has unleashed two rider modes: “Sport” for sharper response on spirited road rides and “Explorer” for smoother throttle reaction while tackling offroad terrain or wet surfaces. Riders can toggle between the power modes on the go, with closed throttle, using the ‘Mode’ switch on the right handlebar.

The World Raid has also now become the first model in the T7 lineup to offer a 6-axis IMU, which constantly measures the machine’s acceleration and angular velocity in the pitch, roll and yaw directions to determine the forces affecting the bike. This data works in sync with the lean-sensitive Traction Control System (TCS), Slide Control System (SCS) and ABS/Brake Control system of the machine.

The lean-sensitive TCS and SCS both use data from the IMU to adjust the engine power and control the amount of traction and slide the rider has selected to use. Both systems feature three modes – STREET, OFF ROAD and OFF – to give riders the option to select the level of system support, and to achieve optimum levels of traction and slide whether riding on or off road. The modes can be accessed via the pop-up menu, using the MODE button on the right handle switch.

For ABS/Brake Control, there is a dedicated button to select between ABS modes. When ABS is switched ON, Brake Control can be enabled to provide cornering ABS, while the offroad focused REAR OFF and OFF modes allow either the rear or both wheels to lock for full offroad control. Strong stopping power and better braking consistency are achieved with the new steel-braided brake lines that run to the Brembo front calipers biting into the large 282mm brake discs.

Other updates include the new clutch actuation position, which has been moved forward (35°clockwise), and the new clutch cover now allows more room for the rider’s right leg, whether sitting or standing, offering more freedom and flexibility to move on the bike.

Shifting gears is now smoother with transmission updates where the number of convex dogs and concave dogs has been increased from five to six for gears 1 to 3. For gears 4 to 6, the dog angle has been changed for a smoother reaction to throttle opening and closing. The gear ratios and final ratio (46/15) remain unchanged to maintain the bike’s dual-purpose performance and comfort. The Ténéré 700 World Raid is also ready to be fitted with the optional up and down quickshifter.

To keep the adventure going the World Raid retains its side-mounted dual tanks but they are now 1.5kg lighter than the previous model, while retaining the total capacity of 6.1 gallons (23 liters) and providing around 311 miles (500km) of range under optimal conditions.

The new tanks also contribute to improved rider ergonomics as their outer shapes have been redesigned. In addition, the new one-piece rally seat features a reshaped front that integrates with the lowered fuel tank, making it easier for the rider to transition between seated and standing positions or shift front to rear. This design offers improved rider mobility and greater freedom of movement.

And yes, also for the first time the 2026 World Raid introduces cruise control to the T7 family. The feature allows for adjustments in increments of 0.6 miles/h (1km/h) and 6.2 miles/h (10km/h) from third gear onwards plus, there is also a Speed Limiter to make sticking to a specific speed limit effortless.

Suspension duties are delivered by a reworked KYB suspension package. At the front, the forks now feature larger 46mm diameter inner tubes, up from 43mm, but the total weight of the front fork assembly remains the same as before. With their Kashima coating, friction and abrasion have been minimized plus revised spring and damping specifications improve shock absorption and tire contact with the ground. The new system also has a preload adjuster on the top of the fork tubes.

Out back, the fully-adjustable KYB Monocross linkage rear suspension has been upgraded too. It now provides improved performance in the dirt thanks to the +5mm increased shock stroke to 106mm specifically designed arm relay and connecting rod contribute to more progressive suspension. Wheel travel is still 230mm front and 220mm rear—20mm more than the standard Ténéré 700. 

The rear subframe is designed as part of the main frame to make it possible to fit accessories such as a top case or lateral aluminum carrier. The muffler bracket and the backstay have been strengthened, and the carrier mounting boss has evolved to a pass-through type to increase its robustness. A new 16-step adjustable steering damper provides a wide range of feel and feedback to the rider, with the option to dial up damping for more support in offroad riding. Plus, following the lead of the 2025 Ténéré 700, the side stand switch has been redesigned and repositioned.

The World Raid is also equipped with a new LED headlight assembly for better lighting performance, in both low and high beam. To make headlight height adjustment easy, it can now be done with just one screw, conveniently accessible under the TFT meter. The revised LED headlight assembly maintains the four-beam design of its predecessors but now features rectangular low-/high-beam LED units of 54mm x 24mm linked by an aluminum structure. Adding to the updates, the bike is equipped with a new windscreen and easily removable side deflectors, providing higher levels of weather protection.

The cockpit area also receives an update, including a new 6.3-inch full-color TFT display offering three theme options – STREET, EXPLORER and RAID. Like the standard T7, the World Raid connects with your phone, making calls, messages, turn-by-turn navigation, emails and music available through the left handlebar switches and visible on the TFT. 

To help keep your phone and other electronic accessories charged even on longer journeys, a USB-C port is conveniently located on the right-hand side of the cockpit, protected by a waterproof cap.

As you may expect by now, there is no news from Yamaha on when or if this new model will land in the US. As for Europe, Yamaha says deliveries to dealers vary per region, so please contact your national Yamaha distributor for full information. Pricing for the Tenere 700 World Raid has not yet been released.

Tenere 700 World Raid Specs