- MotoFest 2026 delivers more value than ever, with bookable demo rides allowing attendees to properly test the latest motorcycles — not just admire them in the pits.
- Yamaha is one of six major brands supporting the new demo programme, bringing an exciting range that spans sport heritage, naked, supersport, touring and adventure.
- Each ride follows a guided 40-minute road loop, giving riders real-world insight into performance, comfort and technology before deciding what suits them best.
As you may have already seen, big changes are coming to MotoFest this year — and for riders heading to Hampton Downs, this is easily the most exciting addition yet: bookable demo bikes.
Instead of tyre-kicking in the pits, you can now secure a spot on a guided 40-minute ride on local roads. That means real braking zones, real corners, real comfort testing and a proper feel for engine character — exactly how a demo should be.
With six brands signed up to provide bikes, Yamaha’s line-up stands out as one of the most diverse and exciting. From retro-inspired sport to LAMS supersport and serious adventure machinery, there’s something here for almost every rider.
There’s even the chance to sample Yamaha’s Y-AMT automatic gearbox on the MT-09 — a bike we here at BRM absolutely loved when we had one on long-term loan.
Below is what’s on offer — and who each machine will suit best.
Demo slots will fill quickly — secure your booking early via the MotoFest website to avoid missing out.
Yamaha Demo Bikes
From retro race-bike cool to LAMS supersport and serious off-road adventure, Yamaha’s MotoFest demo fleet covers a huge range of riding styles. Here’s what’s available — and which one might suit you best.
XSR900GP
One of the coolest modern retro models to hit showrooms in recent years, the XSR900GP takes the heart of the MT-09 and wraps it in Eighties race-bike styling that turns heads everywhere it goes.
Courtesy of clip-on handlebars, the riding position is sportier than the naked MT-09, but it’s far from extreme. You could happily ride this every day. And with that flexible CP3 triple delivering strong, usable midrange, the GP is an ideal real-world sportsbike for Kiwi roads.
Who Is An XSR900GP Rider?
Sportsbike riders wanting something more flexible and forgiving, or anyone who simply loves the styling.
BRM review: https://www.brm.co.nz/yamaha-xsr900gp-review/
Yamaha NZ: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.nz/products/motorcycle/road/sport-heritage/xsr900-gp
MT-09 Y-AMT
Yamaha arguably reshaped the naked segment when the original MT-09 launched back in 2014. Since then, the 890cc triple has been refined into what we reckon is the best MT-09 yet — and we’ve done thousands of kilometres to back that up.
The MotoFest demo bike features Yamaha’s impressive Y-AMT automatic transmission. No clutch. No gear lever. You can run it fully automatic or switch to manual mode using paddle shifters — and it works brilliantly.
On the road and even on track, the Y-AMT system delivers all the fun of the standard MT-09, just in a different way. If you’ve been curious about automatic motorcycles, this is the one to try.
Who Is An MT-09Y-AMT Rider?
Just about anyone. The relaxed ergonomics and punchy triple suit a wide range of riders, and the Y-AMT adds a new dimension that might surprise you.
BRM review: https://www.brm.co.nz/yamaha-mt-09-y-amt-review/
Yamaha NZ: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.nz/products/motorcycle/road/maximum-torque/mt-09-y-amt
YZF-R7LA
You’ll see plenty of R7s circulating Hampton Downs, and Yamaha’s LAMS-approved R7LA joins the demo fleet this year.
Powered by the proven 655cc parallel twin and weighing just 188kg wet, the R7 looks sharp and focused but remains confidence-inspiring and manageable. It’s a genuinely sporty motorcycle that still works brilliantly in the real world.
And once you graduate from your learners licence, it still delivers enough performance to keep you entertained.
Who Is A YZF-R7LA Rider?
LAMS riders wanting something sporty yet usable — or experienced riders looking to downsize without losing the thrill.
BRM: https://www.brm.co.nz/2026-yamaha-r7-breaks-cover-gets-new-and-major-upgrades/
Yamaha NZ: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.nz/products/motorcycle/road/supersport/yzf-r7la
Tracer 7 (High Output)
The Tracer 7 blends Yamaha’s CP2 parallel twin performance with upright ergonomics and long-distance comfort. It’s essentially the do-it-all middleweight many riders are searching for.
The High Output version offers around 72hp from the 689cc engine in a package weighing under 200kg fully fuelled. It’s light, engaging and capable of genuine touring.
Who Is A Tracer 7 Rider?
Riders who want long-distance comfort without bulk — and still want to enjoy the twisties on Sunday morning.
BRM review: https://www.brm.co.nz/yamaha-tracer-7-2025-review-nz/
Yamaha NZ: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.nz/products/motorcycle/road/sport-touring/tracer-7
Ténéré 700 World Raid
The Ténéré 700 is arguably the benchmark middleweight adventure bike, and the World Raid takes that formula further.
With its massive 23-litre twin fuel tanks, upgraded suspension and 250mm of ground clearance, it’s built for serious adventure riding. The latest version adds a TFT dash, switchable power modes and easy rear ABS deactivation.
If you’ve been considering stepping into adventure riding — or upgrading your current machine — this is a must-ride.
Who Is A Tenere 700 World Raid Rider?
Adventure riders who want serious off-road capability straight from the showroom floor. Just note the 890mm seat height — you’ll want decent leg length.
BRM: https://www.brm.co.nz/2026-yamaha-tenere-700-world-raid/
Yamaha NZ: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.nz/products/motorcycle/off-road/adventure/ténéré-700-world-raid
