Yamaha XSR900: bikesales Bike of the Year 2022 finalist
The Yamaha XSR900 is a no-fuss motorcycle for pure riders
Why is the Yamaha XSR900 a bikesales BOTY finalist?
There is a growing list of categories in the motorcycle industry, many of which blur the lines and cross over with each other. Terms like neo-retro, adventure sport, sportstouring, super naked, hyper naked, café racer, scrambler, and bobber can often leave you scratching your head.
Yamaha calls its XSR900 a ‘Sport Heritage’ bike, while some might describe it as a neo-retro café racer or naked bike. But what the XSR900 really is, is a motorcycle full stop. It is pure two-wheel fun and functionality and it gets the job done in a no-frills manner. This is a motorcycle just as it should be.
Powered by the same 889cc CP3 three-cylinder engine found in the MT-09, the latest version the XSR900 benefits from a new chassis and a new six-axis IMU.
The comprehensive electronics suite is complete with four ride modes, lean-sensitive ABS and traction control, slide control, and wheelie control. It also packs a TFT display.
Elsewhere, the XSR900 has capable suspension and brakes, and great ergonomics. All of this adds up to a well-equipped, but no-fuss machine.
It is fast, fun, functional, and just a great motorcycling experience. And that is why it has made the cut as a 2022 Bike of the Year finalist.
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Who will the Yamaha XSR900 appeal to?
The Yamaha XSR900’s retro styling adds a degree of cool-factor, so the style-conscious will certainly be interested in this classic Yami.
But the XSR900 is definitely a bike for motorcycling purists. The three-cylinder donk is an absolute beauty and will get the job done as both a commuter and as a mountain-slaying racer.
It is electronically well-equipped and offers plenty of safety, while the ergonomics are a great balance between sportiness and comfort.
What does the Yamaha XSR900 cost?
The Yamaha XSR900’s price tag is arguably the best part. At $17,399 ride away, it is excellent value for money and within striking distance financially for many average Australians.
For that sum you get a great engine and chassis, but the comprehensive electronics really justify the price. It offers great bang for your buck.
Of course the MT-09 is $15,799 ride away and essentially shares the same platform. But depending on your personal taste, the XSR900 just has that little bit of extra character so the added premium is arguably worth it.
What have we already said about the Yamaha XSR900?
Editor Dylan Ruddy took the XSR900 for a spin on a three-day trip to Sydney and was impressed with its versatility. Riding winding coastal roads, flat-out freeways, and through tight urban streets, Ruddy found the bike to be adept in nearly every scenario.
“The XSR900 is fun, easy, functional, and it is the perfect companion for the daily commuter or the weekend warrior,” he said.
In summing up, Ruddy said: “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.”
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