The 2016 Yamaha XSR900 is a look back in order to see forward. When thinking about value, real value, as Robert Pirsig might define it, this bike is a glimmer of hope in a world that seems doomed to be plastic. This bike is about real, raw materials. It borrows the torquey 847cc crossplane inline 3-cylinder from the FZ-09. The compact design makes it balance like a twin but feels closer to a 4-cylinder when you are twisting the throttle. It gives the bike a balance that isn’t found elsewhere.
This bike feels real and is full of tactile pleasure. There is metal on this bike. It doesn’t feel like a plastic toy. Its compact, light chassis paired with the quick-revving triple is perfect to blast around the city, but can also hold it’s own through the twisties or up the PCH. The ABS keeps you stopping straight and true and the super-tweakable electronics package is something you expect form a sport bike. Yamaha’s ride-by-wire YCC-T engine control , adjustable throttle response and full-featured Traction Control System mean dialing in your ride for whatever lies before you.
All of this performance comes in a gorgeous package. This is a bike you can ride all day, everyday. Canyon carving and bar-hopping with the boys or dinner dates and drinks on the town, you will feel at home on this bike. I have my own history with Yamaha’s XS triples. For years my daily ride was a 1979 XS750, and it is currently getting some much needed attention in my shop. This bike brings the culture and heritage of real motorcycles to the 21st century. We can’t wait to see where Yamaha takes us next.
Learn more about the 2016 Yamaha XSR900 here.
