More Returning Models for Yamaha 2016

Yamaha and Star Motorcycles had been making news today with new models and fresh liveries, but that's not the only thing going on. Several of Yamaha's touring and sport bikes live on into 2016.

Unchanged mechanically, the Super Ténéré twins slide into 2016 with new paint—both are Raven—or, black, if you're not into the whole bikes-as-animals thing. The base-model Super T runs $15,090, the same as in 2015, and includes the now-familiar 1,199cc parallel-twin with 270-degree crank, steel frame, and long-travel suspension. Tubeless spoke wheels in a 19/17-inch combo round out the package. Also returning is the Super Ténéré ES, which has electronically adjustable KYB suspension for $16,190. Standard-scheme Ténérés will be available in November, with the special 60th Anniversary (see 60th Anniversary Specials here) coming the same month.

New last year, the ADV-like, slight-of-build sport-touring FJ-09 comes into 2016 with no changes beyond a Raven or Matte Silver choice of finishes, the latter with electric-blue wheels. We liked the charismatic three-cylinder FJ, a cousin of the rowdy FZ-09, for its comfort and versatility. MSRP remains $10,490 with availability in October.

Yamaha’s long-running FZ6R entry-level four-cylinder model also returns for 2016 with nothing more than a Raven paint job with red accents to show for it. Priced at $7,790, the FZ6R will hit showrooms in November.

If singles are your thing, you’ll be happy to know that the SR400 is retuning for 2016 on Onyx for the same $5,990 it sold for in 2015. No mechanical changes to the little thumper—and still no electric start, so learn how to kick it, kids. Availability begins in October.

One model not specifically mentioned and presumed dead is the FZ1, which has seen its slender market share eroded by the cheaper FZ-09. Also, Yamaha has not yet updated specs or availability on the evergreen FJR1300, but we’re not about to believe it’s dead. Yamaha hints at more news coming mid November, which we take to mean a new YZF-R6 and, we hope, an update to the FJR.