/ Featured Article
Here’s why the new Yamaha XSR900 is better than ever before
Yamaha’s newest XSR900 certainly punches way above its class.
Yamaha introduced the 2022 XSR900 in the local market with its Christian Sarron-inspired livery during the 2022 Makina Moto Show. Sarron's triumph in the 250cc World Championship in 1984 is only one of many of Yamaha's great racing accomplishments that come to mind when you see the blue and gold logo. Needless to say, the XSR nameplate represents Yamaha's rich heritage, not just in the world of racing, but in the industry as a whole.
Even in its previous iteration, the Yamaha XSR900 was one of the most popular big bikes in Team Blue’s stable. In fact, you could even go as far as saying that the XSR900 paved the way for today’s neo-retro craze consisting of modern naked sportbikes shod in old-school attire. Needless to say, the 2022 Yamaha XSR900 is better than ever, and is definitely worth considering if you’re looking to upgrade to a bigger, more powerful machine—here are a few reasons why.
All-new technology
It goes without saying that Yamaha has outdone itself yet again with the XSR900. Just like the new MT-09 released last year, the XSR900 stands out thanks to its top-tier electronics package and premium components. The redesigned die-cast frame, spinforged 10-spoke aluminum wheels, and adjustable KYB suspension are included as standard equipment. The sleek new six-axis IMU adopted from the YZF-R1 provides traction control with lean-sensitive capability, as well as slide, lift, and brake control. Additionally, cruise control and an up-and-down quickshifter are included as standard equipment with the new XSR900.
Killer styling
The first generation XSR900 was by all means already a good looking bike. However, with the release of the new model, it’s clear to see that Yamaha wanted to set itself apart from the run-of-the-mill cafe-racer aesthetic. To do this, it drew inspiration from the racing machines of the ‘80s. A circular headlamp unit, a perforated headlight mount, and bar end mirrors have been added to the XSR's front end. A stronger passenger pad replaces the seat's removable cowl as it moves backward, and a side panel covers the subframe that was previously visible. The short tail retains the 1980s Grand Prix design while also bringing in more usefulness.
A magnificent engine
Performance-wise, the XSR900 inherits the newly revised CP3 crossplane inline-three cylinder engine from the Yamaha MT-09. The CP3 engine, which debuted in the 2021 MT-09 and complies with Euro 5, now powers the classic naked bike's 889cc capacity. In addition to the improved engine and chassis, Yamaha now equips the XSR with a quickshifter, cruise control, and a slipper-assist clutch. The liquid-cooled, DOHC inline triple produces 117 horsepower at 10,000 rpm.This certainly gives the bike a well-rounded character, making it suitable for both city riding and performance-oriented canyon-carving, or maybe even the occasional track day.
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