Yamaha RW350 2027: Adventure scooter with a new drivetrain concept

The daily commute to the office and a detour onto an unpaved track ask very different things of a scooter. Yamaha wants to cover both and is introducing the new RW family to do so. Alongside the RW700 and RW700 Explore, the RW350 is part of the 2027 line-up. It targets commuters with a taste for exploring and combines an automatic transmission with a riding position that works both seated and standing. The Japanese manufacturer hides the technical effort beneath a deliberately slim fairing.

At its heart is a newly developed 327 cc liquid-cooled four-stroke single with four valves, SOHC valve actuation and fuel injection. Yamaha quotes 21.5 kW or 29.2 hp at 7,000 rpm and 31.5 Nm at 5,750 rpm. Bore is 74.0 mm, stroke 75.9 mm and the compression ratio 10.9:1. Wet-sump lubrication, TCI ignition and an electric starter complete the engine package, while an automatic V-belt CVT handles power transmission.

More interesting than the raw output is the layout called Yamaha Dynamic Ride. The engine is rigidly mounted in the frame. Only the CVT unit pivots up and down around a point at the crankshaft. Compared with a conventional swinging engine-transmission unit, this is said to significantly reduce unsprung mass, increase rigidity and allow greater freedom in rear suspension design. The concept is complemented by a four-axis balancer. Yamaha expects this to deliver fewer vibrations and calmer, more stable riding performance on uneven surfaces.

The YCC-T electronic throttle system registers the rider's input, and the engine management calculates the appropriate throttle valve opening. Yamaha is using this technology in this scooter class for the first time. Yamaha Ride Control offers the STREET, EXPLORE and ECO modes, each with its own settings for power delivery and traction control. STREET is designed for a wide range of everyday use. EXPLORE adopts its engine characteristics but allows more rear-wheel slip. ECO reduces power and is meant to make throttle control easier in the rain or on poor road surfaces. For longer stages and motorway riding, cruise control is on board.

A high-tensile steel tube frame in diamond/backbone design forms the basis. Up front there is a 37 mm upside-down fork with 140 mm of travel, while at the rear two shocks with 105 mm of travel and seven-step adjustable preload do the work. This lets you account for the load from luggage or a pillion. Ground clearance is 185 mm and the wheelbase 1,540 mm. A bash plate is designed to shield key components, and according to Yamaha the tapered steel handlebar combines rigidity, vibration damping and durability.

The cast wheels measure 16 inches at the front and 14 inches at the rear. Their pronounced dish shape around the hub is inspired by rally car wheels. For the first time on a Yamaha, the rear aluminium wheel features a hub damper designed to reduce vibrations under acceleration and deceleration. They are paired with tubeless Dunlop D615 tyres with a block tread, developed specifically for the RW350, in 120/70-16 at the front and 150/70-14 at the rear. Braking is handled by a single hydraulically actuated disc at each end, measuring 282 mm at the front and 245 mm at the rear. Yamaha quotes a rake of 26°30′ and trail of 96 mm.

The seat is designed to allow the rider to move forwards and backwards. Its tapered rider section should make getting on and off easier and help with reaching the ground. Seat height is 810 mm. Wide footpegs with heel guards and removable rubber inserts allow weight shifts. When standing, the rubbers give way under load, and they can be removed for more grip off the tarmac. Further forward are additional folding footrests intended to provide a more relaxed leg position and more wind protection on longer rides.

According to Yamaha, there is room under the seat for a full-face helmet and everyday luggage. Whether your own helmet fits explicitly depends on its size and shape. The tank holds 13 litres, and the spec sheet lists 192 kg wet weight including full fuel and oil. The RW350 is 2,170 mm long, 815 mm wide and 1,310 mm tall.

The cockpit features a five-inch colour TFT with three display themes. The exclusive RW layout shows mountains in the background, another view visualises throttle input, and the third reduces the display to essential information. Speed, bar-type rev counter, fuel level, average consumption as well as engine and ambient temperature are part of the information shown. It is operated via the handlebar switches. The free MyRide app connects the smartphone for calls, music, call and message notifications, and YRC mode settings. A USB-C socket is available for charging.

With the likewise free Garmin StreetCross app, map display or turn-by-turn directions including real-time traffic information are possible. MyRide for iOS and Android also records routes, lets you add pictures and share them on social media. The riding data that can be analysed includes distance, altitude, top and average speed, acceleration and lean angle. With the key on board, the Smart Key system controls vehicle activation, engine start and stop, and unlocking of the handlebar, seat and fuel cap. With One-Push Start, a short press of the button is enough when the ignition is on and the brake lever is pulled, and the starter then disengages automatically.

The front end, inspired by Yamaha's adventure models, carries four LED light units. The tail light and indicators also use LEDs. Lightly tapping the indicator switch triggers three flashes for a lane change, while pushing it fully activates continuous signalling. Automatic cancellation switches off after 15 seconds, provided more than 150 metres have been covered. If heavy deceleration is detected, Emergency Stop Signalling activates both indicators. A hazard light function is also part of the package.

For the design of the RW series, Yamaha uses the term TEXNATURE. Surfaces and colours are meant to draw on the earth, rivers and nature surrounding the manufacturer. The RW350 comes in Sage Blue, Arashi Sand and Midnight Black. For the RW family, Yamaha announces accessory packs and individually available genuine accessories, including new aluminium side cases and a top case, redesigned soft bags, plus radiator, front and headlight guards. The parts can be pre-ordered and fitted by the dealer. The announcement does not specify exactly which combination will be offered for the RW350. In addition, there is adventure apparel with T-shirts, hoodies and other merchandise. The material provided does not yet state prices or a specific launch date.

How much displacement and power does the Yamaha RW350 have? The spec sheet lists 327 cc, 29.2 hp at 7,000 rpm and 31.5 Nm at 5,750 rpm. The press release refers to the displacement as 330 cc.

What is Yamaha Dynamic Ride? The engine is rigidly mounted to the frame, while the CVT unit pivots around the crankshaft axis. A four-axis balancer complements the system. Yamaha aims to reduce unsprung mass and vibrations with it.

Which riding modes and touring features are there? STREET, EXPLORE and ECO control power delivery and traction control. Cruise control, Smart Key, USB-C and a connectable five-inch TFT with Garmin StreetCross navigation are part of the described features.

How heavy and how tall is the RW350? Yamaha quotes 192 kg wet weight with a full tank and a seat height of 810 mm. The tank holds 13 litres, and ground clearance is 185 mm.

Does a full-face helmet fit under the seat? According to Yamaha, yes, depending on the size and shape of the helmet. There is also room for everyday luggage.

When is the RW350 coming and what does it cost? The documents list it as a 2027 model. A specific launch date and prices have not yet been announced.