- World’s first production scooter with an airbag
- No changes to the engine
- To be launched internationally by the third quarter of 2026
Yamaha is pushing the boundaries of two-wheeler safety with the 2026 Yamaha Tricity 300, which is set to become the world’s first production scooter equipped with an airbag system.
Developed in collaboration with Autoliv, the airbag is integrated into the scooter’s front apron, just below the handlebars. It’s designed to deploy in the event of a frontal collision, helping reduce rider impact with the handlebars and surrounding hard components. This innovation brings car-style passive safety into the scooter segment.
Importantly, the system has been engineered specifically for two-wheelers, accounting for factors such as rider positioning, balance, and limited packaging space. Yamaha claims the addition of the airbag does not compromise practicality, although the standard (non-airbag) version retains a small front storage compartment in that space.
The Tricity 300 continues to be built around Yamaha’s leaning multi-wheel platform and is powered by a 292cc single-cylinder engine, now updated to meet Euro5+ emissions standards thanks to a lighter catalytic converter.
Alongside the safety upgrade, the 2026 model also receives a series of tech and styling enhancements. These include full LED lighting, a 4.2-inch TFT display, smartphone connectivity, and integrated navigation via Garmin’s StreetCross app. It also comes equipped with cornering ABS for added stability under braking.
While the Tricity 300 is available in NZ currently, the new model is set to go on sale in international markets in the second half of 2026.
