SPORT & HERITAGE MORPHED INTO ONE.
2018 Yamaha XSR900 Review on Total Motorcycle:
The XSR900 blends state-of-the-art Yamaha engineered performance with neo-retro styling and a thrilling 847cc Crossplane Concept 3-cylinder engine.
Based on the popular FZ-09, the XSR900 is a beautiful blend of 3-cylinder performance and eye catching “authentic sports” styling. The XSR includes all of the FZ-09’s key features plus traction control and ABS equipped brakes. A natural riding position offers solid riding comfort while the slipper clutch with assist highlights the more serious sports side of the XSR. Tasty, timeless styling combined with plenty of Yamaha’s latest technologies, the XSR is guaranteed to provide a fun, exciting ride.
The XSR900™ features Yamaha engineering with neo‑retro style, creating a thrilling, timeless machine for riders seeking an authentic and honest motorcycle with plenty of performance.
The XSR900 is the real deal. An exhilarating riding experience delivered by cutting edge technology and influenced by an unrivalled racing heritage. The best of Yamaha’s latest engineering is wrapped in a retro design, paying tribute to timeless classic machines.
The latest in-line, 3-cylinder, 850cc, CP3 Crossplane Concept engine delivers astounding torque and breath-taking acceleration. A super lightweight aluminium frame combined with a natural riding position offers a heightened riding experience and outstanding agility.
The XSR900 takes inspiration from Yamaha’s rich history of sports bikes and motorcycle design, mixed with cutting edge technology.
44 MPG Estimated
///Power
Liquid-cooled, 850cc in-line 3-cylinder fuel-injected engine with a downdraft intake. The engine has been tuned to provide plenty of low to mid-range torque with strong yet linear throttle response.
///Styling
You won’t find a lot of plastic parts on the XSR900. The “authentic sports” styling highlights Yamaha’s long racing heritage, but don’t be fooled, there is plenty of cutting edge technology under the aluminum shrouded fuel tank.
*2016 model shown.
///Instrumentation
Multifunction, digital instrument displays all the info discerning sport riders demand. From a bar style tach to gear position indicator, to instant & average fuel economy, this classic round design liquid crystal instrument adds function and style.
2018 New colours XSR700 and XSR900
Yamaha’s Faster Sons
Inspired by some of the most memorable and iconic models from our past, Yamaha’s Sport Heritage range is proving to be a major success with those riders who appreciate their unique formula that blends timeless style with a very special character and sophisticated engine and chassis technology.
By harnessing the retro appeal of Yamaha models from a previous generation – and at the same time creating minimalist, contemporary high-tech motorcycles that deliver linear torque with agile handling for a connected and emotional riding experience – we’re enabling today’s Yamaha customers to discover the true essence of motorcycling.
We call it our Faster Sons philosophy, and this refreshing approach to motorcycle design has attracted riders of all ages and backgrounds to the Sport Heritage line. Yamaha’s Faster Sons design philosophy has struck a chord with many thousands of riders who appreciate not only the timeless design of our Sport Heritage models, but also their ability to put every rider in touch with their surroundings, and make every single ride so enjoyable.
Capturing the hearts of riders in Europe and the USA
This ability to re-connect today’s riders with the essential joys of motorcycling is a key characteristic of every Yamaha Sport Heritage model, and the latest European sales figures show just how many riders have been inspired by the XSR700 and XSR900.
Between 2015 and 2017 over 11,000 riders became proud owners of a new XSR700, making it one of the most successful models in its category. With its outstanding linear torque, agile handling, attractive looks and remarkable economy and value, the XSR700 is the definitive mid sized naked retro. Its remarkable success within Europe has created massive interest amongst the press and public in the USA, and for 2018 the XSR700 will be launched in the United States – where it looks like it’s going to be one of Yamaha’s best selling models.
Introduced in 2016 – one year after its smaller brother – the remarkable XSR900 has also enjoyed considerable success. In just two years this 3-cylinder Sport Heritage bike has sold over 7500 units in Europe, and has been widely praised for its special combination of strong linear torque, sporty handling and timeless good looks. The XSR900 has also been a major success in the USA, where it has won over a whole new generation of riders who are looking for authentic retro design together with thrilling performance and cutting edge electronics such as TCS, YCC-T and D-MODE.
Paying tribute to the past, with an eye on the future
For 2018 the best selling XSR700 acknowledges its roots with a bold new colour scheme that pays tribute to the iconic XS650 – the bike that started Yamaha’s 4-stroke revolution, and one of the most important and iconic models in Yamaha’s history.
Introduced back in 1968 – before many of today’s XSR700 riders were born – the XS650 has huge significance as Yamaha’s first 4-stroke motorcycle. With its advanced 654cc SOHC parallel twin design, class-leading reliability and high power output, the XS650 gained a loyal following in Europe and the USA – and there are still many dedicated XS owners clubs in existence today.
Marketed variously as the XS650, XS1, XS2 and XS650 Special during its 17-year production run, it established Yamaha as a major brand in the 4-stroke sector – at a time when the company was predominantly seen a 2-stroke manufacturer.
As well as its immense popularity with street riders, the XS650 also made a great impression in the racing world. The XS650 engine powered Kenny Roberts to the 1973 AMA Grand National Dirt Track Championship in the USA – and it was also the dominant force in Sidecarcross, winning four consecutive World Championships between 1980 and 1984.
Iconic new XSR colours for 2018
New Brilliant Red XSR700
From January 2018 the XSR700 will be available in a new Brilliant Red colour option that pays homage to the 1972 XS2.
Just like the original XS650 model, the XSR700 features a parallel twin engine that delivers strong linear torque for outstanding riding enjoyment. Some 46 years after Yamaha first used this this evocative colour scheme, the Brilliant Red XSR700 recaptures the true spirit of our original parallel twin 4-stroke. An excellent example of our Faster Sons philosophy in action!
New Racing Red XSR900
From November the XSR900 will be available with a new Racing Red colour option that’s reminiscent of the colour scheme used on the original XS850 back in the 1980s.
Genuine Accessories
Inspired by the Yard Built motorcycles that Yamaha has created in cooperation with world famous motorcycle customizers over the last few years, Yamaha has developed a range of high quality Sport Heritage Genuine Accessories for the XSR700 and XSR900, enabling every customer to build their very own Yamaha Yard Built motorcycle.
The extensive line up features many performance parts including high and low levelAkrapovičexhaust systems, as well as Öhlins rear shocks and fork springs for enhanced handling. XSR owners looking for the ultimate in riding comfort can choose from a selection of seats and screens, and a range of stylistic bolt on accessories such as seat cowls and billet covers are also available.
There’s a diverse selection of soft luggage that looks great and increases the XSR’s carrying capacity – and the Genuine Accessories line up also includes many lightweight billet components and other items that are designed to enhance the style of these charismatic Sport Heritage models.
Using the My Garage app, XSR owners and potential customers can create their dream bike online with our easy to use 3D configurator. Just click and customize, and see what works best for you!
Yamaha Lifestyle – Faster Sons
We’ve developed a range of cool casual wear designed for XSR owners. Legendary bike builder Roland Sands is responsible for the design of many of these shirts, jackets and caps.
The range also includes open face helmet with a cool retro look, as well as riding jackets, gloves and more. Available in a wide range of sizes, male and female.
2018 XSR700 & XSR900 Overview
XSR700 – Born tomorrow
* New Brilliant Red version with Matt Silver front and rear fenders
* Built for optimum riding enjoymentVintage inspired headlight and rear light unit
* Two-texture leather vintage style seat unit
* Pirelli Phantom tyres with authentic tread pattern
* Outstanding fuel efficiency
* Aluminium fuel tank unit
* Liquid-cooled 689cc inline 2-cylinder 4-stroke
* Mass-forward design with sculpted bodywork
* Crossplane philosophy design with 270-degree crank
* Deep and powerful linear torque output
* Dual 282mm front discs with 4-pot calipers
XSR900 – Born to rule
* NewRacing Redcolour option
* Liquid-cooled, 850cc, in-line 3-cylinder, 4-stroke
* Aluminium fuel tank covers
* Traction Control System
* Assist & Slipper Clutch
* Vintage inspired headlight and rear lightCrossplane Concept engine design
* Lightweight frame with aluminium parts
* Adjustable front and rear suspension
* Retro cool, powerful sports heritage
* Stitched two-level seat
* Powerful torque, incredible acceleration
* Easy to customise
Yamaha Sport Heritage 2018 Colours
XSR900
* NEW: Racing Red
* Garage Metal
* Midnight Black
XSR700
* NEW: Brilliant Red
* Garage Metal
* Tech Black
XV950R
* Tech Graphite
SCR950
* Vivid Red
* Yamaha Black
2018 Yamaha XSR900 Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
•847cc, DOHC, 4-valve / cylinder, liquid-cooled, 42.5 degree inclined, inline-3 cylinder engine
•Offset, ceramic composite plated cylinder
•CP3 crankshaft with fracture split connecting rods
•Yamaha’s chip controlled throttle (YCC-T)
•Slipper clutch with assist function
• D-Modes (3)
•Traction Control
•ABS brakes
•Adjustable suspension front & rear
•Neo-retro “authentic sports ” styling
2018 Yamaha XSR900 Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
///ENGINE
•Compact, 847cc, DOHC, 12-valve (4/cyl), liquid-cooled, 42.5 degree inclined, inline-three cylinder engine.
•engine is tuned to provide plenty of low & mid-range torque
•strong yet linear throttle response
•meets or exceeds Europe’s EU-4 emission regulations
•4-valve, downdraft style combustion chamber
•excellent torque output… especially in the low to mid rpm range
•4-valve design maximizes flow into & out of combustion chambers
•31 mm intake & 25 mm exhaust valves
•stainless steel valves feature an Isonite surface treatment & carburized tips for excellent durability & wear resistance
•Valve adjustment intervals are every 42,000 kms.
•120 degree CP3… cross plane concept crankshaft.
•design reduces inertial torque while emphasizing linear torque
•design has been optimized to achieve strong torque over a broad rpm range
•fast, linear throttle response
•engine design allows a whole new level of “rider – machine communication”
•Lightweight “coupling force balancer”.
•reduces engine vibration for excellent rider comfort
•”Fracture split” connecting rods feature a “nut-less” design.
•lower end “cap” of the rod is made from the same piece of material as the upper portion; the 2 pieces are “split” apart using a special fracturing process & then machined and re-mated
•design aids in establishing true big end roundness & greater precision in con rod dimensions for excellent durability despite the higher horsepower loads.
• Lightweight, forged, aluminum short skirt pistons.
•lightweight design for fast engine response
•reduces mechanical vibration
•excellent durability
•Direct ceramic composite plated cylinder uses “liner less” bores.
•ceramic coating sprayed directly on the aluminum block, eliminating the liners & reducing weight
•excellent heat dissipation for consistent power delivery
•coating enhances the thin film of oil between the cylinders & pistons, reducing friction & increasing power
•Offset cylinder design.
•cylinder is “offset” relative to the crank (toward exhaust side)
•reduces frictional losses between the pistons & the cylinder walls during the power stroke for improved power output
•One-piece cylinder & upper crankcase assembly.
•superior engine & chassis rigidity (engine is a stressed member)
•reduces weight
• Lightweight, hollow, high performance camshafts.
•cam profiles are designed for excellent torque in the low & mid rpm range
•Crankcases feature a “Tri-Axis” layout for the crank, main & drive axles.
•creates a more compact & shorter engine front to back
•shorter engine allows for optimum engine placement in the “sweet spot” of frame for desired weight distribution & great handling
• Closed loop, Mikuni, 41 mm, throttle body fuel injection system.
•system uses throttle position sensor (TPS) & acceleration position sensor (APS)
•12 hole injectors
•injectors spray fuel directly at the intake valve
•”closed loop system” uses an oxygen sensor to “sniff” spent exhaust & automatically adjust the fuel / air ratio for reduced emissions
•fuel injection benefits include choke-free starting, steady idling during warm up, excellent fuel economy & reduced emissions
• Yamaha Chip Control Throttle (YCC-T).
•YCC-T electronically controls throttle valves for outstanding throttle response & controllability
•YCC-T system provides precise control of intake air volume for a smoother torque curve
•ECU that controls YCC-T is capable of responding to changes at a speed of 1000th of a second
•Yamaha D-Mode variable throttle control … 3 modes available.
•enables the rider to adjust the performance characteristics of the engine based on riding preferences or riding conditions
•”STD” (standard) Mode emphasizes very linear throttle & torque feel of the engine
•”A” Mode allows the rider to enjoy even sportier engine performance in the low to mid rpms
•”B” Mode reduces throttle response for riding situations that require softer power characteristics, such as slippery or wet conditions
•D-Mode button is conveniently located on the RHS handle bar switch gear
•Compact, slipper (back limiter) clutch with assist.
•slipper clutch reduces the negative effects of engine braking on handling & suspension
•reduces rear wheel hop/ chatter when decelerating for improved riding performance & smoother corner entries
•assist function reduces clutch lever effort by up to 20%
•Electronic Control Unit (ECU) utilizes a powerful 32-bit processor for fast control of the injection, engine management & ignition processes.
•Air box features unequal internal intake funnel lengths for all 3 cylinders
•benefit is a wide torque curve & exciting intake sound that accentuates the exhaust note
•viscous paper type air filter is used
•Compact 6-speed transmission.
•gear ratios are optimized to accentuate the torque & throttle response of the engine
•Flat design radiator for excellent cooling efficiency.
•aluminum side covers (left & right sides) adds style to the rad
•Liquid-cooled, oil cooler maintains stable lubricant temperatures for extended engine life.
•Convenient spin-on type oil filter & easy access drain plug for fast oil changes.
•Maintenance-free transistor controlled ignition (TCI).
•produces a strong spark for fast starts
•provides precise ignition timing / mapping for optimum engine performance at all rpms
•Stylish, low mounted, 3 into 1 exhaust system.
•muffler is a triple expansion type with a 3-way honeycomb catalyzer to reduce harmful emissions
•low mounted design centralizes mass for excellent handling & light weight feeling
•Air Injection System (AIS… not ram air) injects fresh air into exhaust ports to fully burn any unburnt fuel, reducing exhaust emissions.
///CHASSIS
•CF (Controlled Filling) die cast, twin spar, diamond-type, aluminum frame
•provides an optimized rigidity balance for sporty handling & excellent stability
•engine is a stressed member of the chassis, allowing a lighter, more compact main frame
•light, agile handling qualities
•Riding position is one of the most important features of the XSR900 chassis.
•upright, natural riding position offers a balance between sporty riding & excellent rider comfort
• Key chassis geometry figures include:
•1440 mm (56.7″) wheelbase, 25 degrees of rake & 103 mm of trail
•front to rear weight distribution is 51 / 49%
•lean angle is approximately 50 degrees, highlighting the sporty nature of the XSR900
•chassis dimensions & shape are designed to enhance the qualities of the 3 cylinder engine & to centralize mass & lower the centre of gravity
•Detachable, round tube steel rear sub frame.
•allows easy access to rear suspension components
•reduces costs in the event of damage
• Externally mounted, C.F. (Controlled Filling) die cast aluminum, truss-type rear swingarm.
•external design means the swingarm mounts on the outside of the frame spars… not the inside
•external design keeps unit narrower in the seat – fuel tank junction which influences seat height & makes it easier to touch the ground
•lightweight design reduces unsprung weight for superior suspension performance
•excellent rear wheel traction & control
•Adjustable, 41 mm inverted cartridge style fork offers 137 mm (5.4″) of wheel travel.
•adjustments include; 15 mm of spring preload adjustment & 12-way rebound damping
•inverted design benefits include: reduced “unsprung” weight & reduced fork flex since the larger diameter tubes are gripped in the triple clamps
•adjustable design allows the rider to tailor suspension settings to match rider weight, load, road conditions & riding style to maximize suspension performance & handling
•Lightweight, aluminum upper & lower triple clamps.
•Adjustable link-type Monocross rear suspension with 130 mm (5.1″) of wheel travel.
•rear shock adjustments include: 7-steps of spring preload & 3 turns of rebound damping
• ABS equipped, dual 298 mm floating front discs squeezed by radial mount, mono-block, 4-piston calipers.
•radial mount design helps to reduce caliper distortion for improved braking performance
•master cylinder uses a 16 mm piston
•excellent stopping power & control with good lever feedback
•5-position adjustable front brake lever
•ABS equipped, 245 mm rear disc is squeezed by a lightweight single piston, slide-type Nissin caliper.
•ABS or Anti-Lock Braking System.
•controlling ECU & hydraulic unit are combined into a single compact unit
•when ABS system senses impending wheel lock-up (via active type wheel sensors) it regulates hydraulic pressure to the point just before the wheel(s) lock-up
•ABS benefits include; excellent control under hard braking or when braking on wet, slippery or loose surfaces
•design reduces weight & centralizes mass
•Lightweight, cast-aluminum 10-spoke wheels.
•lightweight design reduces unsprung weight for excellent suspension & handling characteristics
•front rim size is MT3.50-17
•rear rim size is MT5.50-17
•Conventional, tapered aluminum handlebar.
•lightweight & strong
•offers a comfortable, upright riding position for excellent all day riding comfort
•traditional design allows easy replacement to a different “bend” if desired
• 14-litre fuel tank with replaceable aluminum tank covers.
•slim design with great knee grip
•reserve portion of the tank is 2.7 litres (low fuel light illuminates)
•internal electric fuel pump
•exterior replaceable tank covers /side panels… reduce expenses if damaged
•One piece rider & passenger seat (seat is slightly shorter than FZ-09).
•seat height is 830 mm (32.7″)
•Round, retro design, liquid crystal multi-function meter / instrument.
•functions (all digital) include: speedo, bar-style tachometer, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, fuel reserve trip meter (counts kilometers since low fuel warning flashed) coolant temp, gear indicator, instant & average fuel consumption, clock, intake air temp, D-mode display, TCS indicator & ECO indicator
•full range of warning lights including ABS & TCS status
•adjustable background illumination
•Neo-retro style 65/55 watt halogen headlight with retro style aluminum headlight brackets / stays.
•highlights the XSR900’s “neo-retro authentic sports styling”
•Vintage style 19 LED rear tail light.
•Neo-retro “authentic sports” body design.
•front fender with aluminum stay, fuel tank panels (3), side covers, rear fender , mirrors & mud guard
///Additional Features
•Lightweight forged aluminum footrests, shifter & rear brake pedal
•Lockable steering
•Durable “O”-ring drive chain
• 4-way emergency flasher
•Convenient oil level sight glass.
• Bungee cord hook points on passenger footpeg mounts
•Excessive lean angle engine cut-out switch (if unit is on its side the engine will shut down)
•Low-maintenance sealed battery (battery should be charged during winter storage)
•Yamaha diagnostic tool connector
NOTE: The XSR900 offers a significant level of power and performance. It is not intended for novice or inexperienced riders.
2018 Yamaha XSR900 – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $9,499 USD
Engine Type 847cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline 3-cylinder 4-
stroke; 12 valves
Bore x Stroke 78.0mm x 59.1mm
Compression Ratio 11.5:1
Fuel Delivery Yamaha Fuel Injection with YCC-T
Ignition TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition
Transmission 6-speed; multiplate assist-and-slipper wet clutch
Final Drive Chain
Suspension / Front 41mm inverted fork, adjustable preload and
rebound damping; 5.4-in travel
Suspension / Rearv Single shock, adjustable preload and rebound
damping; 5.1-in travel
Brakes / Front Dual 298mm discs; ABS
Brakes / Rear 245mm disc; ABS
Tires / Front 120/70ZR17
Tires / Rear 180/55ZR17
L x W x H 81.7 in x 32.1 in x 44.9 in
Seat Height 32.7 in
Wheelbase 56.7 in
Rake (Caster Angle) 25.0°
Trail 4.1 in
Maximum Ground
Clearance
5.3 in
Fuel Capacity 3.7 gal
Fuel Economy** 44 mpg
Wet Weight*** 430 lb
Warranty 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)
Color Rapid Red
2018 Yamaha XSR900 – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $11,099 CDN
///Engine
Engine
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 12-valve (4-valves/cyl), inline-three cylinder
Displacement
847cc
Bore and Stroke
78 x 59.1 mm
Compression Ratio
11.5:1
Maximum Torque
8.9 kg-m (64.3 ft-lbs.) @ 8,500 rpm
Engine Management
YCC-T & D-Mode (3 positions) & Traction Control
Fuel Delivery
Mikuni 41mm throttle body F.I.
Estimated Fuel Consumption±
18.6kpl / 52.5 mpg (Imp.)
Lubrication
Wet sump
Ignition / Starting
TCI / Electric
Transmission
6-speed
Final Drive
“O”-ring chain
///Chassis
Suspension (Front)
Adjustable 41mm inverted fork / 137mm (5.4″) wheel travel
Suspension (Rear)
Adjustable link Monocross / 130mm (5.1″) wheel travel
Brakes (Front)
Dual 298mm discs / radial mount, 4-piston calipers / ABS equipped
Brakes (Rear)
245mm disc / single piston caliper / ABS equipped
Tires (Front)
120/70ZR17
Tires (Rear)
180/55ZR17
///Critical Data
Length
2,075mm (81.7″)
Width
815mm (32.1″)
Height
1,140mm (44.9″)
Wheelbase
1,440mm (56.7″)
Rake / Trail
25° / 103mm
Ground Clearance
135 mm (5.3″)
Seat Height
830mm (32.7″)
Fuel Capacity
14 litres (3.1 imp. gallons)
Wet Weight
195 kg (430 lb.)
Colour(s)
Metallic Black
Vivid Red
2018 Yamaha XSR900 – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer for pricing in GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine type
3-cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valves
Displacement
847 cm³
Bore x stroke
78.0 mm x 59.1 mm
Compression ratio
11.5 : 1
Maximum power
84.6 kW (115PS) @ 10,000 rpm
Maximum torque
87.5 Nm (8.9 kg-m) @ 8,500 rpm
Lubrication system
Wet sump
Clutch type
Wet, Multiple Disc
Fuel system
Fuel Injection
Ignition system
TCI
Starter system
Electric
Transmission system
Constant Mesh, 6-speed
Final transmission
Chain
Fuel consumption
5.2 l/100km
CO2 emission
120 g/km
Chassis
Frame
Diamond
Front suspension system
Telescopic forks
Front travel
137 mm
Caster angle
25º
Trail
103 mm
Rear suspension system
Swingarm, (Link type suspension)
Rear travel
130 mm
Front brake
Hydraulic dual disc, Ø 298 mm
Rear brake
Hydraulic single disc, Ø 245 mm
Front tyre
120/70ZR17M/C (58W) (Tubeless)
Rear tyre
180/55ZR17M/C (73W) (Tubeless)
Dimensions
Overall length
2,075 mm
Overall width
815 mm
Overall height
1,135 mm
Seat height
830 mm
Wheel base
1,440 mm
Minimum ground clearance
135 mm
Wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank)
195 kg
Fuel tank capacity
14 L
Oil tank capacity
3.4 L
Remark
EU4 compliant
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
