Being immersed in a factory team, surrounded by professional riders, was an incredible experience. Thanks to the Raid category, we were able to enjoy optimal comfort and safety: no navigation by roadbook and a less demanding course, making the rally accessible to any rider with some off-road experience.

But the real cherry on top was meeting Stéphane Peterhansel.We had watched him win in enduro for years before seeing him shine in African rally racing. And this time, not only did we have the chance to meet him, but we actually rode alongside him for three stages! Watching him in action on the track was simply mesmerizing. He exudes incredible ease and mastery. His speed, technique, and smooth riding style are absolutely breathtaking.

As for the Ténéré 700, it proved to be the perfect machine for the raid. Its comfort, suspension setup, engine flexibility, and reliability—along with its impressive autonomy of up to 700 km with efficient fuel consumption—make it an ideal companion for this kind of adventure. Over 12 days of riding, we had no mechanical issues whatsoever, which is a real luxury in such a demanding environment.

Riding alongside my idol Stéphane Peterhansel and meeting Franco Acerbis were unforgettable moments. This timeless adventure will remain etched in my memory forever. A huge thank you to the entire Yamaha team for this extraordinary experience!