The new Yamaha model announced on October 28 with the phrase "THE KING IS BACK" was the "XSR900 GP" in the US Inter colors reminiscent of the "YZR500" and "YZR750" that Kenny Roberts, aka "The King," used to ride.

Adoption of "Legendary Yellow," inspired by the "US Intercolor

Yamaha's Sport Heritage Series pays tribute to the most iconic Yamaha riders and machines of past eras, while at the same time offering riders the latest engine, chassis, and design technology. The XSR900 GP is the flagship model of the series and is inspired by Yamaha's champion machines from the golden era of Grand Prix racing, resulting in a breathtakingly beautiful machine.

The new "Legend Yellow" color is reminiscent of the YZR500, which was ridden by King Kenny in the WGP.

The lightweight 200 kg chassis and the sporty riding position created by the separate handlebars are reminiscent of the "racer replicas" of yesteryear.

The "XSR900 GP" has been a favorite of many enthusiastic riders since its launch, with its torquey CP3 engine mounted on an aluminum delta box frame, beautiful racer-style bodywork, and the racing DNA that has been passed down through the generations at Yamaha. The 2026 XSR900 GP is a tribute to one of the most influential figures in Grand Prix motorcycle racing history, Kenny Roberts, aka "The King. The first American world champion, "King Kenny" won three titles in the 500cc class and spent 13 years with Yamaha. His many memorable performances, especially his unforgettable run in the 1975 Indy Mile race, are legendary in AMA racing.

The 2026 XSR900 GP will feature an upper cowl reminiscent of the "golden era" of Grand Prix racing in the 1980s.

The passenger seat is fitted with a seat cover that matches the body color and, combined with the 1980s-style angular rear end design, completes the racer look.

Embodying Yamaha's racing heritage, the 2026 XSR900 GP is reminiscent of the YZR500 that Roberts rode to GP victories in the 1970s and 1980s. The new livery, dubbed "Legend Yellow," features a bold yellow and white color scheme accented by the iconic black Yamaha Speedblock, creating a powerful visual fusion of retro racing bike aesthetics and cutting-edge performance. In addition to the vibrant new "Legend Yellow" color, this 2026 XSR900 GP will continue to be available in the existing "Legend Red" color lineup. Although the XSR900 GP is currently being presented as a European model, we expect it to be introduced in Japan as well.

The yellow base with white lines and black "strobe lines" will be a tribute to the "US Intercolors".

The wheels are also painted gold, similar to the "YZR500" of the time. An undercowl to match this color would also be a great option.

The exhaust system does not have a conventional silencer, giving the side view a compact appearance.

It has more advanced equipment than the "YZR500" of the time, including a delta box frame and inverted forks. The black "GP" letters on the upper cowl stand out against the yellow color.

The white paint on the front view is reminiscent of a number plate. The rear view's compact tail design creates a racer image.

A 5-inch full-color TFT display. The user can choose from four different display themes inspired by the racing bikes of yesteryear, including an analog-style tachometer.

The CP3 engine, Yamaha's pride and joy, is a parallel three-cylinder engine that combines the latest Yamaha technologies, including an R1-derived six-axis IMU, cruise control, a third-generation quickshifter, and an A&S clutch.

The side panels under the seat are secured with racing-style D-ring fasteners. The suspension is fully adjustable front and rear and is made by KYB.

The lightweight aluminum wheels, painted gold, are shod with high-grip Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23s.

2026 Yamaha XSR900 GP: Born From Glory

XSR900 GP main specifications (2026 European specifications)

Overall Length x Width x Height: 2160 x 810 x 1180 mm - Wheelbase: 1500 mm - Seat Height: 835 mm - Weight: 200 kg - Engine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 4-valve inline 3-cylinder 890 cc - Maximum power: 87.5 kW (119 PS)/10000 rpm - Maximum torque: 93N-m (9.5kgm)/7000rpm ・Transmission: 6-speed return ・Fuel tank capacity: 14L ・Brakes: F=Disc, R=Disc ・Tires: F=120/70-17, R=180/55-17 Reviving the legend of the "King" in the modern era, the "US Inter The 2026 XSR900 GP, featuring new "Color" image colors, is now available in Europe!  (13)

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