The Yamaha XSR900 GP Debuts a Bold New Look Inspired by Kenny Roberts’ Iconic Black-and-Yellow Livery

There’s something magical about the holiday season — the way tradition circles back around, the way old favorites return with fresh energy. And Yamaha seems to be celebrating that spirit early. For 2026, the Yamaha XSR900 GP returns with a stunning new colorway: a bold black-and-yellow livery inspired by Kenny Roberts, one of the most legendary American racers of all time.

It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern muscle, wrapped in colors that instantly spark recognition in any rider who grew up admiring America’s racing heritage.

A Tribute That Americans Will Feel in Their Bones

For riders in the U.S., Kenny Roberts isn’t just a racing icon — he’s part of our motorcycling identity. The “King” was fearless, innovative, and unforgettable on track. Yamaha knows that, and this special edition pays tribute with the kind of authenticity that hits home.

The new black-and-yellow XSR900 GP channels that 70s/80s racing DNA with precision:

• Striking black base with fast, clean yellow panels

• Iconic striping that mirrors Roberts’ legendary race machines

• A retro race fairing that feels like pure Americana on two wheels

It’s a bike that looks like a poster come to life — and one that American riders will instantly associate with speed, swagger, and history.

Modern Performance Beneath the Retro Cool

While the paint speaks to the past, everything underneath is Yamaha’s latest engineering excellence. Expect the same sharp XSR900 GP chassis, tight handling, and that incredible CP3 engine known for its torque, punch, and pure grin-inducing character.

Yamaha hasn’t changed the formula — they’ve refined the identity.The new livery makes the bike feel faster just standing still, and once it’s moving, the XSR900 GP delivers the same modern performance riders in the U.S. have fallen in love with.

• Agile sport geometry

• Updated rider electronics

• Excellent front feel and cornering stability

• Ride-by-wire with multiple modes

• Traction and slide control to keep things composed

It’s everything a middleweight sport classic should be.

An American Legend Deserves American-Grade Protection — From Nuzari

A bike this beautiful needs protection worthy of its heritage, especially with winter cold, unpredictable rain, and harsh sun hitting many parts of the U.S.

That’s why so many riders turn to Nuzari motorcycle covers, available at Nuzari.com. Built for American weather and American riding conditions, they’re designed to keep bikes like the XSR900 GP looking factory-fresh all year long.

Nuzari covers offer:

• Multi-layer weatherproof protection

• UV shielding for that flawless yellow-and-black paint

• Soft inner lining to prevent micro-scratches

• Secure straps to fight wind in open garages and driveways

• Heat-resistant materials for post-ride coverage

If you’re planning to park a modern classic like this outside or in a cold garage this holiday season, a Nuzari cover is simply the smartest investment you can make.

A Retro Gift Wrapped in Racing Spirit

As the holidays approach, Yamaha’s black-and-yellow throwback feels like a gift to American riders — a reminder of where we came from and how far our machines have evolved. The XSR900 GP Kenny Roberts Edition captures that timeless joy of riding: fast, spirited, and proud of its roots.

It’s more than a motorcycle.It’s a tribute, a celebration, and a piece of American racing soul wrapped in modern engineering.

And for riders across the USA, that’s something worth getting excited about.

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