2019 Yamaha XSR700

Hipsters rejoice: With Ducati and Triumph cashing in on the midsize retro-modern movement, it was only a matter of time before Yamaha joined the fray, first with the XSR900, and last year with the XSR700, which debuted in the US as a 2018 model. The XSR700 gets its retro-flavored styling cues from its older big brother, but it’s built on the FZ-07 (now MT-07) chassis and shares many of that bike’s core components, like parallel twin, 41mm fork, and steel “diamond” frame. Even the ABS-equipped standard brakes are the same; it’s mainly the ergonomics and “Sport Heritage” aesthetics that distinguish the two machines.

The XSR700 was the first bike to be released under Yamaha’s “Faster Sons” philosophy, which entails applying today’s technology to yesterday’s classic looks for better performance. The XSR700 steps it up with a handful of considered details, like exposed aluminum pieces, retro-influenced bodywork, a stepped seat, and custom lighting and instrumentation. For 2019, the XSR700 receives only a cosmetic update in the form of the simple Aluminum/Red color scheme inspired by Yamaha’s Grand Prix-winning two-strokes of the 1970s.

Likes: A snappy, user-friendly powerplant, nimble handling, and smart styling

Dislikes: Soft seat padding, front brake lever doesn't provide much feel

Verdict: Modern-day components and performance dressed in appealing retro aesthetics

In our initial ride of the 2018 Yamaha XSR700, we were impressed by the XSR’s “more planted feel that gives the rider confidence to brake later and carry more speed.” Testers also appreciated that the Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp tires “complement the suspension and provide excellent feel and grip.”

2018 Yamaha XSR700 Review

Yamaha XSR700

2018 Yamaha XSR700 Dyno

Because the retro-modern niche is mainly style-based, choosing comparable models is subjective, but the Ducati Scrambler Icon generally treads in the same neighborhood as far as price, displacement, and intent. The Moto Guzzi V7 III and Triumph Street Twin can also be grouped into this same relatively broad category.

2018 Ducati Scrambler Classic

2019 Triumph Street Twin

2018 Moto Guzzi V7 III Rough

The XSR’s compact parallel twin is known for its strong power delivery, so it’s a good thing ABS comes standard. The 2019 model is only available in one color, but Yamaha makes it easy to customize the XSR with more than a dozen Sport Heritage accessories. Pricing remains the same this year.