Yamaha Motor has unveiled its new RW700 and RW700 EXPLORE adventure scooters at EICMA 2026, expanding Yamaha’s global adventure scooter line-up. The new RW700 combines motorcycle-derived mechanicals and scooter ergonomics, designed for both urban commuting and journeys beyond paved roads.
The RW700 is the standard version, while the RW700 EXPLORE is the premium variant. Both share the same engine, Y-AMT transmission and core chassis architecture, with the EXPLORE adding equipment focused on rider comfort and suspension adjustment.
What engine powers the Yamaha RW700?
Both the Yamaha RW700 and RW700 EXPLORE are powered by a 689cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, eight-valve CP2 parallel-twin engine. It produces 68.3 hp at 8,250 rpm and 65 Nm of torque between 6,500 rpm and 6,750 rpm.
The engine is paired with a six-speed constant-mesh gearbox and Yamaha’s Automated Manual Transmission (Y-AMT). Unlike conventional scooters that generally use a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the RW700 offers a geared transmission and automates clutch operation and gear changes, offering two modes: manual and automatic. In manual mode, riders can select gears using handlebar-mounted controls.
The CP2 engine is seen operating on several Yamaha motorcycles, including the MT-07, R7 and Ténéré 700, although its application in the RW700 is slightly different, paired with an automatic transmission.
What chassis and suspension hardware does the Yamaha RW700 get?
The Yamaha RW700 uses a newly developed backbone-type frame made from high-tensile steel tubing. The suspension setup comprises a 41mm inverted front fork and a bottom-link-type rear monoshock. Both are designed to provide long suspension travel and absorb impacts across different road surfaces.
The Yamaha Adventure scooter is the brand’s first-ever model to feature cross-spoke wheels with aluminium rims, paired with tubeless Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres. These tyres are designed to offer grip on both paved and unpaved roads.
What electronic features and rider assistance systems does the Yamaha RW700 offer?
The Yamaha RW700 features comprehensive electronic features supported by a six-axis IMU, including Yamaha Ride Control (YRC), which allows riders to select riding modes according to road surface conditions. It also comes with cruise control and a dedicated GRAVEL mode with GRAVEL SHIFT (GSH) control.
What are the design and ergonomic highlights of the Yamaha RW700?
On the design front, the Yamaha RW700 features a design language which intends to create an amalgamation between the upright and rugged aesthetics of an adventure motorcycle and the functional layout of a scooter. Its chassis and bodywork are designed to offer a flexible riding position and ruggedness to tackle whatever it is thrown at while off-roading.
One of its distinctive features is the combination of adjustable footpegs and foldable footboards. Yamaha has introduced four-position adjustable footpegs, allowing riders to alter their foot position for different riding situations.
The Bodywork of the RW700 ADV scooter also incorporates DURABIO plant-derived bio-engineered plastics and recycled polypropylene in its construction as part of Yamaha’s carbon-neutrality efforts.
What additional features does the Yamaha RW700 EXPLORE offer over the standard model?
The Yamaha RW700 EXPLORE is the more comprehensively equipped version of the RW700 range. While it retains the same engine and core mechanical underpinnings as the standard model, it adds equipment intended to improve comfort and convenience on longer journeys.
The additional equipment includes: heated handlebar grips, a heated rider’s seat and adjustable front suspension. The EXPLORE also gets a centre stand, exclusive badging and backlit switchgear.
