Each model in Yamaha’s iconic R-Series represents more than just a motorcycle. The R-Series is the result of a culmination of years of race-winning performance, technology, innovation and design.
Through every turn over the last three decades, Yamaha has played a pivotal role in forging new directions, and the evolution of the Supersport category is no exception to this rule.
From the introduction of the very first R1 in 1998, each R-Series model has not only made a statement but changed the game. In recent years, Yamaha have revolutionised the concept of the Supersport machine, breaking boundaries and opening doors to offer race-inspired sports bikes delivering optimal on-road and track performance, while maintaining a sensible price point.
The introduction of the CP2-powered R7 in 2021 was one of these steps, a new kind of Supersport created to appeal to a younger audience and introduce the next generation of riders to the thrills, excitement and pride of ownership that comes from owning any R -Series model, from the R125 all the way through to the R9 and the more extreme and ultimate, flagship track-oriented R1 RACE and R1 GYTR.
The evolution of the Supersport category has also been reflected on the racing scene, with the R7 proven on track as well as the road with popular R7 Cup programmes run across Europe, while the R7 was also the sole-machine chosen for the Women’s’ Circuit Racing World Championship introduced in 2024. The significance of this middleweight Supersport class increases further in 2026 with the introduction of the all-new FIM World Sportbike Championship, in which the R7 will be eligible to compete.
For 2026 the R7 is set to scale new heights with the introduction of more enhanced technology and chassis refinements to create a perfectly balanced middleweight Supersport model.
Advanced Electronics Add Confidence and Maximise Performance
Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (Y-CCT)
The R7 now features Yamaha’s innovative Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (Y-CCT), which detects a rider’s throttle inputs with the ECU instantly calculating the ideal degree of throttle opening to match.
This results in a smoother torque curve through the entire rev range and offers a more linear feel from the now iconic 689cc CP2 liquid-cooled, two-cylinder engine.
Additionally, the introduction of YCC-T opens a whole new world for the R7 in terms of electronics, with rider modes and electronic aids introduced, following in the footsteps of the R9 allowing riders to exploit the package to the maximum and feel the thrill of the ride.
R1-developed 6-axis IMU and Electronic Rider Aids
The new suite of fully customisable electronic rider aids work in conjunction with the R1-inspired 6-axis IMU, supporting riders in gaining experience and developing confidence both on the road and on track.
Constantly measuring acceleration in the forward-backward, up-down and left-right directions – as well as the angular velocity in the machine’s pitch, roll and yaw directions – the 6-axis IMU is able to send data in real time to the ECU which controls the new suite of electronic rider aids, all centred around building rider confidence and allowing the maximisation of the R7’s potential.
This includes three power delivery modes, which alter the throttle response and engine characteristics from sporty to more mild. A three-stage, lean-sensitive traction control system (TCS) detects the difference in speed between the front and rear wheels and softens power delivery to maintain traction from the rear when necessary.
Slide Control (SCS) is also available at three support levels, detecting any slides from the rear and adjusting engine output to help control the slide, while Lift Control (LIF) detects when the front wheel rises from the ground under acceleration and adjusts the engine output to control the resulting wheelie.
Should the R7 start sliding when leaned over under braking, the Brake Control (BC) system will alter brake pressure accordingly to compensate, while a sophisticated Engine Brake Management system (EBM) can be altered between two levels to increase or decrease the level of engine brake when closing the throttle or downshifting during track riding. For added support when the rear wheel locks up due to excessive engine brake, the Back Slip Regular (BSR) controls engine torque to modify the bike’s behaviour – this system also adds confidence in low-grip situations.
For optimal race starts, a Launch Control system (LC) is also available when accelerating from a standing start, while another benefit for track riding is the ability to turn off the rear ABS for a more direct response to braking inputs.
The suite of electronic aids is designed to offer all riders an optimal level of support to match their riding ability, from the more protective higher settings for less experienced riders, to a lower stage of support for more experienced riders, while rider aids can also be turned fully off to suit those riding on track with a high level of experience.
Customisable Riding Modes with Yamaha Ride Control
Following the R1 and R9, the R7 will feature Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) which allows riders to select the engine power characteristics and degree from electronic aids based on personal preference or riding conditions.
Three preset riding modes include SPORT, STREET and RAIN, featuring factory settings to suit different conditions, are complemented by the option to create two Custom settings, which enable the rider to manually select their own desired settings via Yamaha’s MyRide app.
Third-Generation Quickshifter and Improved Shifting
For slicker, smoother and more sporty gear changes, the number of engagement teeth for the male and female dog gears has been increased from five to six for first through to third gear. The angle of the dog gears has also been modified for fourth to sixth, reducing the effect on the bike’s behaviour when the throttle is opened and closed, resulting in smoother gearshifts.
The overall shifting experience is further enhanced with the introduction of Yamaha’s third-generation Quick Shift System (QSS), enabling clutchless up and down shifts through to different settings, with Setting 1 allowing clutchless upshifts while accelerating and clutchless downshifts while decelerating, and Setting 2 permitting downshifts while accelerating and upshifts while decelerating to suit a wider range of both road and track scenarios.
More refined and agile handling
More rigid and agile chassis
In search of improved rigidity to increase stability, almost every element of the R7’s frame has been changed and optimised, including the pipe layout, diameter, thickness and reinforcement. The result is that the torsional, longitudinal and lateral rigidity have all been improved while maintaining the same weight as the previous frame.
To accommodate the increased rigidity, the centre brace now uses steel plates with plastic covers to achieve excellent stability when riding, while the bike’s response to steering inputs and feedback from the tyres have been optimised. The swingarm has also been re-designed to offer clearer feedback from the road.
A newly designed triple clamp features a new shape, trimming away thicker parts of the previous design to optimise the feeling and strength while also now being closer in appearance to the triple clamps on the flagship R1 and R9.
To complement the chassis revisions, the R7’s 41mm inverted front forks now feature aluminium (rather than steel) piston rods, reducing the overall weight by 350g and delivering a lighter, more agile handling. The front fork is also fully adjustable for preload, rebound and compression damping, enabling minute changes to fit rider preferences and varying riding scenarios.
For the first time, the R7 will adopt Yamaha’s SpinForged wheels, not only significantly reducing weight but also inertia at the wheels, allowing for lighter and more agile handling. The SpinForged wheels are fitted with Bridgestone’s Battlax Hypersport S23 tyres, offering a higher level of grip.
Combined, these rolling chassis improvements, offer a refined and more dynamic handling experience from the R7, with more direct turning, improved tyre feedback and an overall calmer chassis feeling with less pitching and smooth damping.
Revised Riding Position
The R7’s riding position has been modified to improve overall accessibility and riding comfort, with re-positioned handlebars making for easier upper body movement and a re-designed fuel tank allowing for greater freedom in moving forwards and backwards on the bike. This allows riders to more pro-actively shift their bodyweight when cornering and changing direction. A 5mm lower seat height, (from 835mm to 830mm) results in a more accessible chassis stance. A sharper-looking seat brings the R7 into line with the R1 and R9 while also improving rider connection and grip.
The R7 now features the footpeg from the R1, making it easier to put weight onto the pegs, increasing lower body stability when cornering.
5″ TFT Display, Connectivity and Intuitive Controls
5-inch TFT display
A 5-inch full colour TFT instrument display adds to the premium feel with four selectable themes for display.
Dedicated Track Mode
In addition to the four road-oriented themes, a Track Mode displays only the relevant information on the dash focusing on the lap-timer, for a true ‘race-style’ dash-layout.
Intuitive handlebar switches with all-new interface
A new integrated handlebar switch assembly allows the rider to operate the R7’s wider range of functions, including smart phone connectivity, navigation and riding modes as well as navigating further menu options.
For a more intuitive and convenient riding experience, the indicator switches are now auto-cancelling as well as offering a three-flash option for shorter periods of signalling.
A new Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function reacts to sudden braking by engaging the hazard lights to warn road users behind the vehicle is stopping at speed in an emergency situation.
Cruise Control and Speed Limiter
For added convenience, especially over longer distance rides, the R7 is fitted with a cruise control system which can be activated when riding at speeds of 40km/h and above in third gear and higher. After the cruise speed is set, it can be increased or decreased in increments of 1km/h with single pushes of the switch or continuously by holding down the switch. The cruise control system is cancelled when the rider selects the cancel button or hits the brake, clutch or throttle.
A speed limit can also be set for the machine, controlling engine output to ensure the motorcycle does not exceed the selected speed.
Smartphone notifications and data transfer
The R7’s display can be connected to a smartphone via Yamaha’s MyRide app, through the bike’s onboard Communication Control Unit (CCU). This full connectivity offers the ability to show various information and images on the display, including phone calls, text messages and weather updates while a full navigation system is available through the Garmin StreetCross app.
The MyRide app can also be used to modify YRC settings, allowing the creation of new YRC modes even when away from the bike. Up to 40 different mode setting variations can be saved on the app to suit a particular road or track conditions and then uploaded to the bike when in range.
Y-TRAC Rev – Feel like a racer!
Introduced with the 2025 R9, the new Y-TRAC Rev app offers riders the experience of a professional racer, with dedicated data-tracking and the option for the pit crew to communicate with the rider.
Riders can log lap times and sector times with the Y-TRAC Rev app as well as machine data, including lean angle, engine rpm, gear position, speed, throttle position and the levels of support from the electronic support systems, such as traction control. The rider can then analyse this data or compare with others’ data, enabling the riders to improve their times and optimise machine settings just like they do in MotoGP.
Y-TRAC Rev uses GPS location data from the rider’s smartphone. Additionally, if the rider prefers to use an external GPS unit on the bike, Y-TRAC Rev also supports Garmin GLO2. Y-TRAC Rev also offers the option for a ‘Virtual Pit Board’, where the rider’s pit crew can send messages to the rider’s dashboard while out on track.
R7 owners can use Y-TRAC Rev for free but need a premium subscription to unlock unlimited riding logs.
Next Generation R-Series Design and Aerodynamics
Aesthetics have always been paramount to R-Series DNA, with each R model carrying key design influences from the YZR-M1 MotoGP bike. The new R7 is no different, retaining stand-out features such as the hallmark ‘M’ shaped duct while receiving a sleek-new look bringing the aesthetic into line with the whole R-Series range.
Special effort has been taken to reduce the frontal area by making the width of the fairing slimmer and smoother to attain even higher levels of aerodynamic performance. The R7 retains its single centralised headlight, nestled within the iconic ‘M’ to retain the narrow front dimensions and minimise weight, while a new headlight lens offers increased aerodynamic efficiency. Changes made to the shape of the chin spoiler fitted underneath the headlight improve airflow efficiency and allow a greater volume of air to be directed to the radiator.
The indicator lights are now integrated into the rearview mirrors, combined with the minimalised lighting, this accentuates the bike’s skinny appearance.
Key Technical Features
- 689cc CP2, liquid cooled, DOHC, 4-valve inline two-cylinder engine
- More rigid and more agile chassis
- Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T)
- R1-developed 6-axis IMU
- Lean sensitive rider aids including Traction Control (TCS), Slide Control (SCS), Brake Control (BC)
- Power Modes (PWR), Launch Control (LC) and Lift Control (LIF)
- Third Generation Quick Shift System (QSS)
- Engine Brake Management (EBM) and Back Slip Regulator (BSR)
- Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) with customisable settings
- Rear ABS off mode
- Next Generation R-Series design
- 5-inch full colour TFT display with connectivity features
- Log and analyse riding data with Y-TRAC Rev
- Cruise control and speed limiter
- SpinForged wheels fitted with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tyres
- Refined, fully adjustable front and rear suspension
- Revised riding position for enhanced comfort and movement
Celebrating Yamaha’s 70-year Heritage with Iconic Colours
Yamaha Motor Company turned 70 in 2025 and to celebrate 70 years of innovation, the new R7 will be available in the eye-catching and nostalgia-evoking 70th Anniversary colours, as first displayed by Yamaha’s race teams earlier this year.
Based on the iconic colours of the limited edition, race-focused 1999 R7, the white and red colourway evokes memories of Yamaha’s statement-making revolutionary Supersport models of the 90s.
The R7 will also be available in Icon Performance and Midnight Black, and is expected to be in Yamaha showrooms in April 2026.
Add Supersport Style with Paddock Blue
To look the part alongside the new R7, a full range of race-inspired Paddock Blue apparel is available, with a dedicated team-wear range allowing riders to match the style of Yamaha’s official race teams while a more casual ‘essentials’ collection takes Paddock Blue beyond the race track.
For those choosing 70th Anniversary colours, a full range of 70th anniversary apparel is also available.
Parts, Accessories and Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing
Whether in pursuit of added performance or style, a full range of accessories will be announced in due course, including a range of Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing (GYTR) parts for ultimate track performance.
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