4 Reasons New for 2026 Yamaha R7 is the Perfect Under $10k Motorcycle
The Yamaha R7 is a popular starter bike for many riders for three reasons: styling/quality, performance, the sub-$10,000 MSRP – there's a fourth new reason we'll cover. Learn why there's no better motorcycle in the price range.
Performance:
The 700cc, parallel twin or two cylinder engine provides excellent torque in the low to mid-range of the power band which is more in the RPM range of what's commonly used on road meaning you don't have to be going insanely fast or at 8,000 rpm to have thrilling acceleration. The R7 is by no means slow. The 417 pound (wet weight) R7 will accelerate 0-60 in the 3 second range and claimed top-out at 130-140mph by various motorcycle community members – numbers we have not verified. ABS is always standard on the Yamaha R7. As always, follow all laws and do not condone aggressive street riding.
Styling/quality:
Yamaha's premium quality paired with a real super sport styled motorcycle will wow you when you see it. Unlike the Ninja 650, the Yamaha R7 has a super sport-esque feel to the seating position with the lower bars and a higher seat. The rear has a fin like system reminiscent of the Yamaha R1 vs. plain plastic-y rear ends found on other manufacturers. Aggressive, premium wheel design with weight-saving spin forge technology. Full LED lighting throughout, without the use of the old-school reflector style LEDs. For these many reasons, Yamaha is head and shoulders above the bland two cylinder options offered from Kawasaki and CFMoto.
Price:
Starting at $9,399 MSRP before taxes, DMV fees, freight, set-up and documentation, the Yamaha R7 is the most premium motorcycle in the price range, especially for 2026. This brings us to the fourth, new reason I alluded to above, the new element to the R7s coming further success: Technology.
Technology / New for 2026:
- Drive-by-wire, enabling ride modes
- Ride modes to configure the perfect ride
- Abundance of rider aids to keep you riding optimally
- Ability to quickshift up and down
- Larger screen from Yamaha R9 enabling navigation, interaction with your music, and other phone connected features
- Lighter spin-forged wheels
- New swing arm
- Seat lowered by 5mm
- Rear sets from the Yamaha R1
- New clip-on styling, looks ultra premium
- New headlight design
- Moved the blinker location into the mirrors for a more premium look
Coming to Vallely Sport & Marine for the 2026 riding season, stop by to learn more.
View our 2026 Yamaha R7 Inventory
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