And now, the legend continues — the 2026 XSR900 GP arrives with a stunning new Legend Yellow livery that pays tribute to one of Yamaha’s most iconic figures: ‘King’ Kenny Roberts. Available to pre-order now at Central Bikes, this is your chance to own a piece of racing history reborn.
Honouring a True Champion
‘King’ Kenny Roberts is one of the most celebrated names in Grand Prix motorcycle racing. America’s first world champion, Roberts claimed three 500cc titles and spent 13 years with Yamaha, carving out a career defined by grit, innovation, and dominance. His 1975 Indy Mile performance remains the stuff of legend — a masterclass in control and courage.
The 2026 XSR900 GP honours that legacy. Its new Legend Yellow colour scheme is an unmistakable nod to Roberts’ GP-winning YZR500s of the 1970s and 80s. The bold yellow and white paintwork, set off by Yamaha’s signature black speedblock graphics, captures the raw energy and racing pride of Yamaha’s golden age.
Retro Looks, Modern Performance
The XSR900 GP takes its design cues directly from Yamaha’s ‘Golden Era’ race bikes. The upper cowling, separate knuckle guards, and boxy rear section create a silhouette instantly recognisable to any fan of 80s Grand Prix racing. A colour-matched seat cowl completes the look, transforming the XSR900 GP into a true road-going racer.
But beneath its vintage style lies cutting-edge performance. The bike is powered by Yamaha’s high-torque 890cc CP3 engine — a masterpiece of engineering that delivers effortless mid-range pull and thrilling acceleration. Combined with a lightweight Deltabox-style chassis, the result is agility, stability, and confidence in every corner.
Yamaha’s exclusive SpinForged wheels, paired with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tyres, reduce unsprung weight and enhance grip, giving the XSR900 GP a nimble, planted feel whether you’re carving through twisty roads or hitting the open straights.
Comfort Meets Control
Yamaha has achieved a delicate balance with the XSR900 GP: authentic racing ergonomics, tuned for real-world comfort. Riser clip-on handlebars sit above the top yoke, moving the rider forward into a more dynamic position without compromising on road-going ease. The die-cast aluminium footpegs are adjustable to two positions, allowing riders to fine-tune their stance for comfort or sport.
Every detail feels crafted for control — from the A&S (Assist and Slipper) clutch, which keeps the bike stable during aggressive downshifts, to the third-generation quickshifter, which allows seamless gear changes under acceleration or deceleration. Even long-distance riders will appreciate the addition of cruise control, making motorway stretches smooth and effortless.
Race-Bred Handling
Handling is at the heart of the XSR900 GP’s character. Yamaha has equipped it with fully adjustable KYB suspension, including high-spec upside-down forks and a link-type rear shock — both designed to deliver precise feedback and adaptability. Whether you’re attacking corners or cruising through city streets, the suspension setup feels composed and confidence-inspiring.
This is complemented by the 6-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), derived directly from Yamaha’s R1 superbike. It continuously monitors the bike’s position and movement, powering an extensive suite of electronic rider aids — including Lean-Sensitive Traction Control, ABS, Slide Control, and Lift Control.
Through Yamaha Ride Control (YRC), riders can tailor the bike’s behaviour with selectable power modes and intervention levels. Three factory presets — Sport, Street, and Rain — are joined by two fully customisable modes, ensuring the XSR900 GP can adapt perfectly to your riding style and the conditions ahead.
Technology with a Retro Soul
Step into the cockpit and you’re greeted by a 5-inch full-colour TFT display, set within a beautifully retro-inspired dash. Riders can choose from four display themes, including an analogue-style tachometer reminiscent of classic race bikes.
Connectivity comes standard, with the Yamaha MyRide app linking your smartphone to the bike via Bluetooth. View calls, messages, and notifications directly on the screen, or use navigation features to stay on course. It’s the perfect marriage of vintage aesthetics and modern practicality.
Designed to Inspire
Every angle of the XSR900 GP tells a story. The sculpted side panels and enclosed seat design are pure 1980s nostalgia, complete with race-style D-ring fasteners for quick removal. The seat itself is comfortable for daily riding yet shaped for a sporty posture, while the removable rear cowl allows for easy conversion from solo to two-up riding.
It’s not just a motorcycle — it’s a celebration of Yamaha’s racing DNA, a reminder of the machines that defined a generation, reimagined for the roads of today.
Colours, Availability and Pre-Order
The 2026 Yamaha XSR900 GP will be available in Legend Yellow — a powerful tribute to ‘King’ Kenny Roberts — and the returning Legend Red. Delivery times and pricing will vary by region, with UK release dates expected in 2026.
Central Bikes is now taking pre-orders for the XSR900 GP ahead of its official arrival. Our team can guide you through specifications, pricing, and finance options, and help secure your place among the first owners of this limited, heritage-inspired model.
To register your interest or pre-order your XSR900 GP, contact Central Bikes today.
Feel free to contact us via WhatsApp, phone or email, for more information. Or, Contact Us via our booking system to book a test ride today!
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