Yamaha has unveiled the latest creation from its Yard Built project, entitled Back to the Paddock, a tribute to the 40th anniversary of Christian Sarron’s world title in the 250cc championship. Inspired by the iconic colors of the 1984 TZ250, the XSR900 GP fuses the essence of legendary motorcycle racing with a bold, modern approach. The model celebrates the glorious past while looking to the future of the brand.
A national hero at the center of the tribute
The choice of Christian Sarron for this project was no accident. The legendary French rider is a central figure in Yamaha’s history, highlighted by his victory in the 1984 250cc World Championship on the Team Sonauto Gauloises Yamaha TZ250. During a 14-year career with the brand, Sarron scored seven Grand Prix victories and won the prestigious Bol d’Or endurance race in 1994. The XSR900 GP pays tribute to his remarkable career and lasting impact on motorcycling.
The celebration at Wheels & Waves
The Wheels & Waves festival, held along the stunning Atlantic coast in Biarritz, France, was the perfect setting to bring the spirit of Yard Built to life. Despite the challenging weather conditions, Christian Sarron didn’t hesitate to take the XSR900 GP out on the road, taking the opportunity to relive memories while appreciating Yamaha’s technological evolution.
A symbol of legacy and innovation
The XSR900 GP is more than a motorcycle; it is a statement of continuity between the past and the present. Through this project, Yamaha reaffirms its commitment to honoring the heritage of its champions while redefining the limits of design and engineering in contemporary motorcycling.