EICMA 2018: Yamaha reveals raft of NEW machines for 2019. NIKEN GT. 3CT three-wheel CONCEPT. UPDATED scooters. TRICK special editions.

The action is well underway at EICMA in Milan, with all the major manufacturers set to unveil its new 2019 ranges over the next few days. Last night, it was Yamaha’s turn to shine – as the Japanese brand unveiled an eclectic mix of new models to the world.

Of course, the headline event was the big reveal of Yamaha’s new T7 middleweight adventure machine – which has been hotly anticipated since it was first released in concept form a couple of years ago. And it’s finally here. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg, the iconic Japanese brand has also unveiled the Niken GT, the all-new urban-oriented 3CT three-wheeler, a handful of new colours for its range of scooters, and a few super cool specials – in the form of an XT500-inspired XSR, a beautiful Suzuka 8 hours liveried R1, and a tricked out XMAX Iron Max sports scooter.

Yamaha NIKEN GT

https://youtu.be/UgwjozzRG2s&t

Yamaha has taken the next step on the development of its NIKEN 3-wheel concept – unveiling a new GT version for 2019.

Fitted with a range of special equipment, the new NIKEN GT brings added functionality to the 3-wheel concept by offering increased long distance touring capabilities together with increased levels of rider and passenger comfort. It comes with a higher screen, a specially designed comfort seat, and 25-litre semi-soft side cases. There’s also heated grips ensure riding comfort in all weather conditions, and there’s even an extra 12-V outlet to power or charge various devices.

HERE’S THE KEY INFORMATION ON THE NIKEN GT

• Advanced leaning multi-wheel technology
• Deep lean angle, maximum 45 degrees
• Ackerman steering, double upside down front forks
• Fully adjustable rear suspension
• 847cc, 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC CP3 engine
• TCS, QSS, A&S clutch, D-MODE, Cruise Control
• Hybrid steel and aluminium frame
• All-weather 4-season long distance Sport Tourer
• High screen
• Comfort seat
• Heated grips
• Semi-soft 25-litre ABS side cases
• Rear carrier base with passenger grip
• Main stand
• Second 12-V DC outlet
• Dedicated GT colours (Nimbus Grey with black front forks, and Phantom Blue with gold front forks)

The NIKEN GT will be available at Yamaha dealers starting in January 2019 – but at this stage we’ve had no official confirmation of price.

Yamaha 3CT

Building on the successes of the Niken and Tricity 125, Yamaha is looking towards the next phase in its three-wheel vehicle development programme – presenting its all-new 3CT prototype.

The new prototype confirms that Yamaha’s looking to build on the successful formula already proven by the smaller capacity Tricity. The 3CT continues that ease of use and lightness, while adding increased performance at higher speeds, and increased dynamism. The chic 3CT prototype is also full of cool surprises and original design features, including a 3D printed seat – the first time this technology has been featured on a Yamaha chassis.

The 3CT is equipped with a Tilt Lock Assist system that supports the rider at a stop while the scooter remains upright. It’s an innovative design that does not lock the front suspension, keeping the vehicle smooth in stop and go operation as well as being able to move it on foot at parking locations. But the driving force that will help make the 3CT prototype such a strong performer in the city and on the open road is its Blue Core 300cc engine, which has helped to make the XMAX 300 the best-selling sport scooter in Europe.

No new yet about when the 3CT will be making it to market – but it’s a sure sign on things to come from Yamaha as they continue to concentrate on its three-wheeled output.

NMAX 125, D’elight 125 and Tricity 125

Yamaha’s range of small capacity scooters won’t be changing a huge amount for 2019. It’s just a case of a choice of new colourways to refresh their look for the new riding season.

NMAX 125: Matt Grey/Milky White/Viper Blue

D’elight 125: Velvet Green/Milky White/Power Black

Tricity 125/Matt Grey/Milky White/Cyber Blue

Yamaha XMAX IRON MAX

Just a year after the successful refresh of XMAX line up, Yamaha has unveiled a new special edition XMAX IRON MAX, which comes with an even higher level of equipment to underline its status as the sharpest of Sport Scooters.

HERE’S THE KEY INFORMATION ON THE XMAX IRON MAX

• Exclusive Sword Grey colour
• Special new dual seat
• Leather interior pads
• Aluminium footrests
• Satin chrome speedo ring
• Available in 125cc, 300cc and 400cc versions

Yamaha ZXF-R1 GYTR – Special Edition

Yamaha is celebrating its 20th YZF-R1 Anniversary with a track ready GYTR specification YZF-R1 in victorious Suzuka 8 Hours livery.

The key GYTR equipment on YZF-R1 GYTR includes a race wire harness set, ECU, CCU and quick throttle. This exclusive racer also comes with a high performance Öhlins FGRT 219 front fork package, TTX36 GP rear shock and fully adjustable steering damper as well as a full titanium Akrapovič Evolution 2 exhaust system. And to protect the bike, there are protectors for crankcase and wheel axles by Gilles Tooling.

There will also be an optional addition of non-Yamaha racing parts, specially selected and installed by racing engineers of a partnering Official Yamaha Racing Team. They ensure each bike will be adorned with a full carbon race fairing in iconic Suzuka 8 Hours livery and after their assembly a dyno engine break-in and tailored chassis set-up is performed, so each individual will be fully ready to conquer the track. This is a machine for true racing fans.

Yamaha Motor Europe will be releasing twenty units of this exclusive machine, one for each year the YZF-R1 has been setting pace in the superbike world. The model shown at EICMA is a prototype and customers will have access to the final and full specifications as well as pricing in mid-December when customers will also be able to reserve their bike online before purchasing their 2019 YZF-R1 GYTR at an Official Yamaha Dealer.

Yamaha XSR700XTribute – Special Edition

Over 40 years ago Yamaha introduced the XT500, an air-cooled 4-stroke single that went on to become one of Europe’s best-loved motorcycles. The key to its success was simple design, useable power and all round versatility, and with its XT-inspired colours and classic scrambler looks, the new XSR700 XTribute respects the XT’s true character and pays homage to this iconic bike.

Key Features
•    689cc, CP2, high-torque engine
•    Compact and agile chassis
•    XSR700 inspired by the iconic XT500 from 1981
•    Special XT-style flat seat
•    XSR700 XTribute logo on tank and seat
•    Off road handlebars and chunky footrests
•    Fork gaiters
•    Pirelli MT60RS tyres for ON and soft OFF ROAD riding
•    Black finishing for levers and handlebars
•    Black LCD instruments
•    LED tail light
•    Radiator protector covers
•    Optional high level 2-into-1 Akrapovič exhaust with black finish

The new XSR700 XTribute will be available at Yamaha dealers starting in April 2019 – but at this stage, we’ve had no confirmation of price.