Wayne Rainey completes first laps of Laguna Seca since 1991 on specially adapted Yamaha XSR900 GP

Three-time 500cc world champion, Wayne Rainey, has been presented with a specially modified Yamaha XSR900 GP retro sportsbike, allowing him to take to the track once more after being paralysed from the chest down in 1993.

The one-off XSR has been equipped with Yamaha’s latest Y-AMT semi-automatic gearbox, which comes as an option aboard the MT-07, MT-09 and Tracer 9 range, and allows riders to either shift up and down with their left fingers, or opt for a fully automatic set-up.

Several other adaptations were made to Wayne’s bike to further support him when riding, including a large pad on the rear of the fuel tank, plus a more planted seated position.

It was presented to him during a special honorary event at Laguna Seca circuit from July 11-13 – a weekend also hosting round five of the MotoAmerica racing championship.

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In celebration of the handover, a special two-lap parade took place around the 2.2-mile undulating track, which was led by Rainey alongside multiple other riders, California Highway Patrol motorcycle officers, and more.

“It was amazing to get back out there on the track,” Rainey told reporters at the event. “I had a lot of success here.

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“To be able to accelerate real fast and riding with all my buddies was a real thrill. It was about 10 laps too short though!”

It was his first return to riding the track since the 1991 US Grand Prix, where he took victory by an impressive 6.9 seconds.

It was also his first public appearance on a bike since the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed, when thousands of fans lined the historic hill climb to watch him ride an adapted version of his 1992 title-winning YZR500 Grand Prix bike alongside rivals, including Kevin Schwantz.