Yamaha Unveils RW700 Crossover Scooters
Yamaha introduced the 2027 RW700 and RW700 Explore, crossover models blending maxi-scooter convenience with adventure motorcycle hardware.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Motorcycles
Live Poll
Would you consider buying a motorcycle-style adventure scooter for your commute?
Yamaha unveiled the 2027 RW700 and RW700 Explore adventure scooters, which combine maxi-scooter convenience with adventure motorcycle hardware. European availability is expected in spring 2027, while U.S. pricing and dealership availability have not been confirmed.
Why it matters
The models signal Yamaha's effort to bridge the gap between scooters and adventure motorcycles for riders seeking versatility. Pricing and market timing remain unannounced for several regions, leaving buyers' options still uncertain.
The RW700 pairs a 689cc liquid-cooled CP2 twin producing a claimed 68.4 horsepower and 48 lb-ft of torque with a 31.9-inch seat height and 6.7 inches of ground clearance. Manufacturer-claimed figures for the Explore version's added weight and suspension travel have not been independently verified.
The players
Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.
The U.S. subsidiary of Japanese motorcycle and scooter manufacturer Yamaha Motor, which has not yet announced pricing or confirmed dealership availability for the RW700 in the United States.
The details
The RW700 uses a six-speed automated manual transmission with no clutch lever, allowing gear selection through handlebar switches or fully automatic shifting. The Explore variant adds front suspension adjustment, heated grips, a heated rider's seat, and a center stand, with power delivered to the rear wheel by chain final drive.
Timeline
Spring 2027: Expected European availability of the RW700 models.
Roadmap
The RW700 marks a departure from conventional maxi-scooters by adopting adventure motorcycle features such as suspension travel and ground clearance. It reflects a broader industry effort to diversify two-wheeled vehicle categories and attract riders seeking off-road-capable alternatives.
Buyers considering the RW700 should note that pricing and dealership availability in the United States remain unannounced, so cost planning is not yet possible. The transmission's automatic shifting and heated features on the Explore may appeal to riders prioritizing convenience in varied conditions.
The takeaway
Riders interested in the RW700 should monitor Yamaha announcements for U.S. pricing and dealership details, as these have not yet been confirmed. Comparing the standard and Explore versions' weight and feature differences will help determine which configuration suits intended use.
What happens next
European availability of the RW700 models is expected in spring 2027.
Further reading
Explore more coverage in our Motorcycles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Top Speed.
Live Poll
Would you consider buying a motorcycle-style adventure scooter for your commute?
