2022 Yamaha XSR900 Review

The 2022 Yamaha XSR900 is not the same bike as its predecessor. Taking inspiration from the recently updated Yamaha MT-09 naked bike, the Yamaha XSR900 gets a new chassis, a swag of new electronics, and an increase in engine capacity. Yep, this is a new beast entirely. And it just works.

Of course, the formula is simple: take the MT-09, wrap in retro styling, and voila! Now you’ve got a machine that is equal parts cool, functional, and thrilling.

And it’s not like the old XSR900 (which was introduced in 2016) was a bad bike. Back in May 2020, bikesales’ own Rod Chapman called the XSR900 a “classy, capable, keenly priced, and ultimately enjoyable ride.” What more do you need in a daily driver?

Still, when Yamaha updated the MT-09 in 2021, it was only a matter of time before the XSR900 followed suit.

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Yamaha has added a lighter and stronger CF die-cast Deltabox frame, a more powerful 889cc CP3 engine, and a new 6-axis IMU that contributes to a more sophisticated electronics suite.

We’ll get to how it rides in a minute, but just know that all of those updates add up to a very attractive motorcycle. And it will only cost you $17,399 ride away.

For a price like that, it’s hard to criticise the Yamaha XSR900. Sure, it might not lead the market in any one individual area, but as an affordable overall package, it is hard to look past.

My time on the new Yamaha XSR900 was short, but I did get the chance to live with it for three days on a quick dash to Sydney. As well as a run down to Wollongong, I spent time riding through the city, on the freeways of Western Sydney, and along the coast in the Northern Beaches.

I rode in warm sunshine, pouring rain, and heavy traffic. I even strapped a bag to the pillion seat (which it is not designed for). All this confirmed in my mind that this is a very good motorcycle.

The new chassis is sporty, agile, and competent, and the ride position is active enough without comprising comfort. Put simply, this is a bike that is great for commuting and an absolute hoot on twisting roads.

My philosophy has always been that if suspension doesn’t cross your mind while riding, then it is doing its job. And that was the case here. Both the fork and shock were compliant and presented no issues. Same goes for the Brembo brakes, which have been boosted by Bosch cornering ABS.

Also worth noting is that the seat height is 20mm lower than the previous model. That is a reasonable change, and adds to the machine’s comfort levels. Well, actually, it will be comfortable for shorter riders, but bigger folk might find the whole deal a bit compact. Though at 185cm (6ft 1in) and just over 100kg, I never found discomfort.

The electronics package is comprehensive, with the R1-derived six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) allowing for lean-sensitive ABS and lean-sensitive traction control, as well as slide control and wheelie control.

There are also four ride modes that alter throttle response. Mode 1 is the most aggressive. These are adjustable via the TFT display which is a simple unit taken straight from the MT-09.

While the new chassis and enhanced electronics have resulted in an excellent bike, it is in the engine department where the bike really shines. The engine has an extra 43cc, and with that comes a nice increase in peak torque to about 93Nm (peak horsepower is only increased slightly to 117hp/86kW).

Those figures are far from huge, but the Yamaha XSR900 engine is still more than lively enough. It is extremely rideable and forgiving, but allows you to dial on the thrills when you want to.

Ride Mode 1 is a little twitchy off the line, but you soon get used to it. Still, Mode 2 is perhaps the sweet spot between fun and forgiveness.

The bike gets off the line quickly and offers torque on tap whenever you need it. Regardless of whether you’re crawling through traffic or tearing through the twisties, this superb engine is there at your service.

All in all, this is a road motorcycle in its purest form. It is fun, easy, and functional, and it is the perfect companion for any daily commuter or weekend warrior. It is a little simple compared to some of its European competition, but that simplicity is a charm in its own way.

There is certainly an improvement over the previous model, which of course was already a very decent bike. The extra torque is welcome, but the new chassis and improved electronics really take the XSR900 to the next level.

If you just want a motorcycle that looks, feels and rides like a real motorcycle, then the 2023 Yamaha XSR900 is probably what you’re looking for.