Yamaha XSR 900

The first XSR 900 was introduced by Yamaha five years ago, and since then, the Sports Heritage segment has featured models that pay homage to some of the Japanese brand's most iconic motorcycles. The 2022 XSR900 presents itself with a more muscular design and clear improvements in electronics, but it's impossible to start writing about it without immediately highlighting two aspects. Firstly, its color in the 'Legend Blue' hue, a blue that reminds us of Christian Sarron's Yamaha Sonautos from the 80s; secondly, its new Deltabox aluminum frame, which is an evolution of the structure that appeared at the same time, revolutionizing the market and which was introduced in several asphalt models. Today, on the 2022 XSR900 this frame is presented by Yamaha as lighter, more robust and more accurate.

Another new feature of the new XSR900 was the incorporation of a new 899 cc CP3 engine adapted to Euro5 regulations, increased by 43 cc in capacity and with 4 hp more power to reach 119 hp (87.5 kW) at 10,000 rotations per minute. Torque has also been increased by 6%, reaching 93 Nm at just 7000 rpm, 1500 rpm less than in the previous model.

One thing that couldn't change was the distinctive classic round headlamp, but on the 2022 XSR900 it now has the addition of LED lighting technology. In addition, both the “hidden” taillight under the back of the seat and the indicators also feature the same technology.

The electronic improvements are substantial. Taking advantage of electronics already introduced by Yamaha R1 in 2015, the new XSR900 includes a new 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) that employs two sensors to measure velocity and acceleration on three axes. Being 50% smaller and 40% lighter than the original R1, it is responsible for transmitting data to the ECU to inform the tilt-sensitive traction control system, which has three intervention levels available: the slip control system - which predicts rear wheel slippage and adjusts it – delivering power to maintain traction, and the front wheel lift control system that features full MotoGP technology.

A key feature on the new XSR900 is the use of a new compact, lightweight aluminum frame that utilizes Yamaha's latest CF manufacturing processes, making it one of the slimmest, lightest and most compact designs in its class. This allows the handlebars to be mounted lower to give the XSR900 a more aggressive stance, and combined with other frame changes this is reflected in a 14% reduction in inertia around the steering axis compared to the previous model – enabling the biker bend over quickly, accurately and confidently.

The frame uses sections of different thickness so that the level of stiffness matches the different loads placed on any specific area. The thickness ranges from 1.7mm to 3.5mm. Straight-line stability is also enhanced by the adjustment of a rectangular-section aluminum swingarm, 55mm longer than the previous model, to give a 1495mm wheelbase – and an all-new subframe specific to the model, under which the wide seat with two different height levels for driver and 'hang' is mounted.

In addition to the new subframe that accentuates the 80s influence on the new XSR900, there are also new passenger footrests, which unfold close to the subframe, reinforcing the sleek lines of this sporty heritage high-tech bike.

The XSR900's fuel tank is inspired by the bikes used in Yamaha's 1980s Grand Prix, featuring front air intakes that not only help increase engine efficiency, but also convey the powerful engine sound at higher speeds.

The ratio between the sculpted 15-litre fuel tank and the flat seat gives a driving position that's farther back, relative to the bike's midpoint, almost above the rear axle. The compact, ventilated side panels give the XSR900 a minimalist look, and the race-style fuel cap highlights the bike's sporty heritage.

The high quality components are evident on the XSR900, starting with the Brembo front radial caliper very similar to the R1, here a piston moves parallel to the adjustable brake lever – a system that according to the brand brings precise feedback from the front discs 298 mm, and provides superior stopping power. At the rear there is a 245mm rear disc.

In terms of damping, the new XSR900 features a fully adjustable inverted KYB front fork, with a gold finish that enhances the bike's design, and the connecting rod-type rear suspension features a virtually invisible, forward-inclined KYB mono damper, giving the rear a clean and elegant look.

The new XSR900 wheels were manufactured using Yamaha's exclusive rotation technology, which made the front/rear wheel set 700g lighter than the previous ones.

Premium quality and attention to detail is obvious from every angle. The cockpit has been improved with a top machined handlebar table, perforated suspension covers and aluminum XSR logo. Other features include an embossed aluminum backplate, forged pedals, black brake reservoirs and handlebar end mirrors that show this bike is ready to impress – not just the rider.

One of the hallmarks of Yamaha's well-known CP3 parallel two-cylinder engine – one of Europe's best-selling units – which in the new XSR900 has gained in power and torque, is its ability to deliver magnificent torque that Yamaha engineers wanted to keep intact. . For this purpose a new exhaust system was added, with collectors of different lengths and double exhausts that emanates the usual growl of the CP3 engine, increasing the dose of emotion when turning the throttle grip.

To handle the sharply increased torque levels on the XSR900, the A&S clutch has been improved with different friction discs, and the clutch cam angle has been changed from 30 degrees to 33 degrees. These changes reduce the load on the clutch springs, so while the engine is providing more torque at lower speeds, the clutch feels lighter on the lever. To match the increased power and torque of the XSR900, the 6-speed transmission has been optimized with slightly higher gear ratios – with 1st gear going from 2666 to 2571 revolutions per minute and 2nd gear from 2000 to 1947 revolutions per minute.

In 2015, R1 broke new ground with its state-of-the-art electronics, and 6 years later, this system was developed, improved and “miniaturized”. At the heart of the new XSR900 system is a 6-axis Inertia Measurement Unit (IMU) that uses two sensors to measure three-axis velocity and three-axis acceleration. This new unit sends data to the ECU that informs the rider of the three aids: Tilt Sensitive Traction Control System, Slip Control System (SCS) and the Front Wheel Lift Control System (LIF). The degree of intervention of the Traction Control System is calculated by the IMU in relation to the degree of inclination, and the rider can select one of three intervention modes or even turn the system off completely.

In the Slip Control System (SCS), when a rear wheel side slip is registered by the IMU, engine power is adjusted to maintain traction. As with the TCS, there are three levels of intervention, as well as a switch to turn it off. Finally, anti-horseback (LIF) is a MotoGP technology adapted to the real world. The LIF that prevents the front wheel from lifting the ground when accelerating hard.

The XSR900's brake control system controls and moderates front and rear brake pressure to prevent accidental wheel locks, the XSR900's Quick Shift System (QSS) takes performance to another level, allowing the driver to make throttle changes no clutch for optimum acceleration. The new XSR900 also features four engine power modes in D-Mode, compared to three on the previous model. Mode 1 is the most aggressive full power mode, while modes 2, 3 and 4 provide progressively smoother degrees of response in response to the right driving conditions.

Added to all this is the Cruise Control system – easily programmable makes longer journeys even more enjoyable, and has the added benefit of allowing the rider to observe speed limits without having to constantly look at the dashboard in this case consisting of a 3.5 inch color TFT screen.

The XSR will be available in two color schemes: Legend Blue with cyan blue and yellow with gold fork and wheels, and Midnight Black with red accents, controls in black.

Key Features:

- Historic Yamaha Racing influenced design
- High quality details and premium materials
- Flexible and relaxed riding position
- Signature XSR LED lighting
- Modern take on historic colouring
- High performance brakes and suspension
- Sophisticated electronic rider controls
- Versatile high-torque EU5 CP3 889cc engine
- Lightweight Deltabox-style chassis, long swingarm
- QSS, Cruise Control, A&S clutch
- Rider Aids Package, 6-axis IMU
- Traction Control, Slide Control, Brake Control, Lift Control
- Versatile high-torque EU5 889cc CP3 engine
- QSS, Cruise Control and A&S clutch
- Lightweight CF die-cast Deltabox-style chassis
- Lightweight Spinforged wheels
- High specification adjustable suspension
- 298 mm dual front discs with Brembo Master Cylinder
- Forged aluminium foot controls
- XSR900-specific low-profile subframe with foldaway passenger footrests
- Full LED Indicators
- Bar end mirrors
- Machined top triple clamp
- Race-inspired 15 litre fuel tank with race-style filler cap