2021 Yamaha XSR900

One of the more successful neo-retro bikes from the OEMs, the Yamaha XSR900 combines style and speed in a way biased more toward the performance side of the equation. Its smooth blending of classic looks with modern technology (plus a low sticker price) makes it a bargain compared to the competition.

One of the many models in Yamaha’s lineup to make use of the superb MT-09 inline-triple engine/die-cast aluminum chassis platform, the XSR900 created quite a splash when it debuted in 2016. The cafe racer/scrambler/classic/retro heritage movement was already in full swing, and the XSR900 distinguishes itself from the others by conjuring visions of the past through a modern lens. There’s no attempt to replicate a classic Yamaha model from yesteryear; instead, the XSR brings simple retro style with current performance, including ride-by-wire throttle with different modes, two-level traction control, ABS, and LCD instrumentation. It swiftly garnered a spot in CW’s coveted Ten Best Bikes list for 2016.

There are no updates to the XSR900 for 2021. The Radical White/Rapid Red colorway is the only one available.

The 2021 XSR900 has an MSRP of $9,499.

The XSR900′s most direct competitors are the Honda CB1000R, Kawasaki Z900RS/Café, and Suzuki Katana. From there, the retro/classic category becomes much more varied, but other models that could be cross-shopped include the BMW R nineT Racer, Ducati Scrambler Café Racer, Royal Enfield Continental GT, and the Triumph Bonneville T100 and T120.

You can read how the Yamaha XSR900 fared in this comparison with the Kawasaki Z900RS Café and Honda CB1000R. Or you could see the differences in retro philosophy in this comparison with the BMW RnineT, Harley-Davidson Roadster, and Triumph Thruxton R.

While the XSR unfortunately didn’t receive the new 890cc engine that graces the 2021 MT-09, the previous-gen 847cc is certainly no slouch, with “a strong, punchy power delivery” according to CW’s Morgan Gales in his XSR900, Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe, Honda CB1000R comparison test. On the Cycle World dyno, a 2020 XSR900 churned out 103.98 hp at 10,150 rpm and 58.92 pound-feet of torque at 8,050 rpm. As with the previous-gen MT-09, the XSR has three ride modes (“A” = aggressive throttle response, “Standard” = smoother throttle response, and “B” = mellow throttle response with slightly restricted top-end power) and two-level traction control (plus off). CW’s Don Canet preferred A mode in his First Ride Review of the original 2016 model, while MC Online’s Julia LaPalme liked Standard mode in her First Ride Review of the same model, as did Kent Kunitsugu in his First Ride Review. The XSR900 is equipped with a power assist/slipper clutch to ease both lever effort and downshifts.

Yamaha firmed up the spring and damping rates from the previous generation FZ/MT-09, resulting in a much more composed ride when the pace ramps up in twisty sections of pavement. “The (FZ/MT’s) same nimble steering character remains on the XSR, but with a much more sure-footed feel that allows you to be aggressive when making steering or braking inputs,” Kunitsugu remarked in his First Ride Review.

The same four-piston Monoblock Advics calipers clamp on 298mm discs up front provide excellent stopping power, though feel is a little lacking in really aggressive braking situations. ABS works well, and intervention is very transparent.

Yamaha claims 44 mpg from the 2021 XSR900.

Compared to the MT-09′s almost motocross-style ergonomics, the XSR900 is much more comfortable. The reach to the handlebar is longer and the bars lower, but this helps tilt the rider’s torso forward a bit to alleviate the wind blast. The seat is taller (with a CW-measured 32.7-inch seat height) and is well padded, and with the pegs slightly rearward helps provide more legroom. Passenger accommodations are much better due to the single-piece seat as well.

As previously mentioned, the XSR900′s ride-by-wire throttle system has three ride modes (A, Standard, B) and a two-level (plus off) traction control system. ABS is included as standard equipment.

The XSR is fitted with a round LCD display featuring pertinent riding information. A round headlight adds to its retro styling while a LED rear taillight and brake light are mounted above the fender.

The Yamaha XSR900 comes with Yamaha’s one-year limited warranty, with extended warranty and benefits available through Yamaha Extended Service.

Build quality and fit and finish with the XSR900 are excellent, especially for a bike that costs much less than its competitors.