Yamaha add to their Ténéré range with the World Rally edition

Yamaha have added a Ténéré 700 World Rally model to be the flagship in their burgeoning adventure bike line-up, and to commemorate Stéphane Peterhansel’s 1993 Dakar race bike. Yamaha won the first ever Dakar Rally in 1979 with the XT500, and the company went from strength to strength over the subsequent four decades, with six victories achieved by Stéphane Peterhansel alone.

Inspired by this success and encouraged by the growing interest in long distance rally events, the company began its development of the Ténéré, which was introduced in 1983 and has become a stalwart of the adventure riding sector. The current line-up comprises the standard Yamaha Ténéré 700 (£10,110), Rally edition (£11,410) and Yamaha Ténéré World Raid (£11,910).

As the Ténéré celebrates its 40th birthday, the new World Rally pays tribute to past Dakar successes and the machines that helped cement its legacy. The new World Rally edition will be finished in factory racing colours inspired by Peterhansel’s Dakar-winning livery of thirty years ago.

From a technical standpoint the exclusive model will come with a decent smattering of upgrades to help it tackle whatever tough environments riders want to throw it at.

In addition to the premium rally inspired paint and graphics, features include long travel KYB suspension systems and an exclusive Akrapovič titanium exhaust. Range will be maintained with the use of 23 litre, dual side-mounted fuel tanks (as debuted on the World Raid) while a new flat, two-piece seat – complete with a new World Rally logo – will offer the rider improved comfort on long days riding.

Stopping ability is provided from a three-mode switchable ABS system and there’s an Öhlins adjustable steering damper to help keep the front wheel pointing the right way as you skim over tricky terrain (or clip a cats-eye on the A43), while a 5-inch colour TFT screen with smartphone connectivity provides the rider with all the usual information.

The rest of the engine and chassis package, and all the bodywork, remains identical to the World Raid edition which was launched in early 2022.

Interested riders will be able to see and ride the Ténéré 700 World Rally at this year’s ABR Festival taking place from June 23 to 25 at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire, while Yamaha factory riders Alesandro Botturi and Pol Tarrès will ride in the same race colours during their 2023 race programme.  

The new Ténéré World Rally will retail for £13,000 including OTR charges and VAT and will be available mid-June.