Yamaha XSR 900 Roadster Series Test

After the XSR 700, Yamaha today presents its new dynamic roadster sport heritage XSR 900. On the basis of the sulphur MT09, novelty optimizes its genetics and is adorned with an aesthetic, the size of the harvest, the resulting force mechanical.

The strength of the character

From its rich history, Yamaha added to their classic bikes of retro style and the transcription of some of their current machines. Since 2010, through the concepts of his Studio Yart already build through collaborations with firms known as Roland Sands, then modern roadsters lent a nostalgia studied. Therefore, the range Sport Heritage, developed under the conceptual umbrella “Faster sounds” already has many models, divided into two branches that define a variable currency. More “heritage”, with a classic design and engine air cooled, we find the SR400, XV950 pin and XJR1300.

More “Sport”, these models are based on a database to the latest technical standard. The bubbling MT07 became XSR 700, saying as a descendant of the XS 650 1970.

Yamaha 900 XSR Colors

After the induction of its sulphur MT09, Fingerboards brand presents a new version of its roadster more nostalgic, recalling XS750 and 850 1976 three-cylinder. If the structure of the machine that stretched the MT09, dress is unique, as well as the design. Because as well as the product manager insists Shun Miyazawa, the 900 network is developed by Yamaha, through its external design GK dynamic office. For 60 years, this structure is developed with style machines tuning forks. So here the XSR 900, the eldest daughter of the tecno-retro range, combining efficiency with genres, by an essay on the island of Fuerteventura Spain.

Discovery

With its MT09, Yamaha was surprised and overwhelmed the temperamental discovered car lovers, the reactivation of a particularly demonstrative three cylinder block. In this version with classic lines, the Roadster is visually unrecognizable as this XSR 900 lines differ from the original database.

Powerful and elegant, novelty known to transcribe the success with the brand aesthetic heritage. The corners disappear in favor of the more sensual curves and the set incorporates many elements in polished aluminium. More anecdotal, carrying the Yamaha style. headlights, counter and mudguards, brackets saddle plates and contrast with the distinctive colors in general darker radiator guards. A special attention is given to every detail to improve the spirit of vintage.

The imposition, the optical round surrounded by a black ring is hovered over a beam of grating in cache and the solid support of the instrument panel. Masking compound Tin of 14 liters, the container is composed of three aesthetic set including screws, aluminum plates and wide. These volumes, long and wide, can be easily customized. The cover of the upper central part of the port of filling, for a more dynamic composition.

Completely new, one-piece frame shapes rounded and is adorned with a coating that imitates stitched seams discrete Alcantara. Refined, Stern considers a great round LED fire above a short fender. Purists also easily eliminate regulatory bib. Most successful, indicators are not, however, the diodes. Conical and bolted to the rear rack, Platinum that accompanies virtually unnoticed footrest.

This beautiful package, with style is based on a mechanical structure completely in aluminium, without changes and the latest standard technology. The loop of the rear channels tubes are screwed to a structure similar to the Diamond’s robust dimensions. This set stretches volumes in strong arms smooth and contoured, supporting the famous Yamaha block-shaped. The three cylinders in line (CP3) 847 cm3 in time “crossplane”, head of double shaft camshaft and four valves per cylinder, has a relationship career 78,0 x 59.1 mm diameter Particularly live and approved Euro4, which developed 115 HP at 10,000 tr.min and pair 8.30 m.daN to 8500 rev / min. To change a sporty temperament, the clutch is limited slip. To provide a machine required (a bit) less angry, Yamaha announced small changes.

Therefore, for the electronic motor, the three modes, A, B or standard (less intense) all benefit from a smoother response. The slider has improved efficiency of the system by the use of more flexible clutch spring, which reduces 20% strength. The 900 network also includes a traction control TCS, adjustable in three levels of intervention, permissive, more intrusive or non-active.

The breath of the three cylinders in-line sinking collectors under the engine, thus masking the catalyst. metal edge of ultra-short escape follows, thus leaving the banana sports arm. Mounted horizontally on rods, preload adjustable shock and rebound simply manage oscillations of 130 mm. The stand of morro in a fork leg inverted 41 mm and 137 mm travel, rebound damping adjustment. These suspensions have had their characteristics change with a greater preload and hydraulic braking of the MT09. A very welcome change.

To curb the enthusiasm mechanics, radial four-piston calipers attack 298 mm discs The single piston retarder opposition bites a piece of 245 mm. All of this under the supervision of a number of ABS. That left without difficulty by turning five branches of division aluminum rims. Bridgestone S20 of the shoe, 120/70 and 180/55 sizes.

The set includes a sexy machine that reinforce the character said multiple aesthetic details. The finish is in maintenance covers, frame and engine having carefully painted dark surfaces. Similarly, plates of Stirrups and the right boots for protection side pot stickers, contribute to the excellent quality of the 900 network printing. There is also a good integration of the hoses and other ducts or pipes, despite the prominent and unkind radiator. A point of friction, boxes bolted to the structure containing the electronic devices. Finally, the two versions standard, fork a finish in black, while the release of the 60th anniversary is adorned with Golden sheaths. And despite metal cladding, XSR 900 shows a weight of only 195 kg (+ 4 kg of MT09).

Saddle

The further development of the basis of work MT09 is based on seat height and the length of the tank. With a height of 830 mm and 50 mm pot, driver dominating advantage of the machine and is particularly light on the handlebars widths support Renthal. It easier to optimize the handlebar and agility, already in circulation, part of the cycle. But do not wait. Less narrow, the seat does not hit the accessibility and legs, just separated by the reservoir, are a natural Flex.

Under the eyes, asceticism also reign. Above the handlebar and cast bridges and aluminium supports, single display block instrument fully digital forged and negative, focused much of the information. Tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer with the second partial, instantaneous consumption and medium fuel, engine and the outside temperature, clock, driving mode selected and the level of retained TCS. Attractive, complete and reasonably readable, could, however, opt for a more generous size, which allows a more intuitive reading some guidance. In the same way, it is necessary to scroll through the information by pressing the buttons surrounding the screen. More practical, TCS and D-modo adjusts the lever left and right, respectively, without period of execution.

Well equipped, orders are clear, horn is also offset to the inside of the handlebars, which limits possible errors with the flicker. Finally, the brake lever is adjustable in the spacing, but current pods on the handlebars are too obvious.

Drive in the city

The song is more discreet than plumage. We would have liked to have a more manly, more authentic snarl of three cylinders. From the first meters, the roadster forget the harvest which see efficiency talk. Intuitive, Yamaha XSR 900 to take naturally with urban development. Balanced, cheerful, sensitive to only support its wide handlebars could slow its course. With compact dimensions, distance between axes of 1,440 mm and 103 mm machine hunting easily maneuver and very decent turning radius makes a guilt-free city. Finally, the mirrors return a clear image in the width field.

Particularly flexible, lock the fork has less than 50 km / h in the highest gear, without problems. In the same way, injection offers gas discounts now softer, especially B. specify mode, each pressure locking mechanisms and the clutch is remarkably smooth. But all this not masking a compulsive tendency of sports roadster waiting for an opportunity to launch on the traces and break the chains of specific cities. Tired curb their desires of the boulevards, it is time to set aside the flange.

Roads and highways

The handle must be screwed right warily intermediaries, at least if you want to keep the train Manager on the ground. Otherwise, the front tire will be saved as the mill is a cheerful mood. This is especially the absence of inertia in revolutions that characterizes the Japanese three cylinders. We quickly got over 200 km/h converted flag grabbed the handlebars, in search of Utopian refuge behind the counter. Awkward, exercise promotes a course very appropriate fastening.

After this point, the speed limit seems more comfortable, the mechanical stabilisation of 5200 turns. In this plan, the 900 network relaunches with ease, but without excess. Broad, acceleration suffers no respite, but the latest report is quite long. For more tonic excesses, one descends a report. And to better appreciate the strength of the block, it is required that the coils of the secondary network.

departmental

Riveted to the abrasive asphalt of the island roads, the XSR 900 quickly shows a much better understanding of suspensions than her sister MT09 Version 2015. Under the pressure of the three cylinders and coating failure, the machine does not move during muscle reminders on the angle. Now healthy and a little less flexible, the machine calmly maintained its dynamic potential. However, is still the best absorbent equipment correctly defects in asphalt.

Fury, Yamaha block scolded your air box, sometimes, then blocks morphing into more metallic trill vocalizations. Despite his costume play the nostalgia of the charming singer, the XSR 900 is more on rock and nervous efficiency. Always available, the boiler works great beyond of the 6000 revolutions / minute. Approaching its maximum torque curve, mechanics becomes explosive, then claiming its large 115 bourins for change.

Less whim

Less whimsical, injection Ride by Wire driven allows you to calmly control the machine, regardless of the mode selected D. In use, the standard profile is ideal, the sportier a small change of reactions and that it continues to maintain a slight setback. Softer, mode B will be helpful in slippery conditions.

The new raised position, sitting induced wonders, giving a much better feeling on the front. Precise and sharp, that moves by instinct in the desired path. Neutral, that corrects an evil without heading error, the roadster is sensitive to the brackets on the abutments. With a large arm lever, the balance of the machine from one curve to another with ease, its angle of 25º of combat involved in his remarkable agility.

In the same way, it is something natural in the curves of decisions freezing and brake levers are just management. Rather direct attack of the brakes requires a bit of moderation, but slowdowns are powerful and analyzable. In very sharp braking, ABS is late but effectively and discreetly in action, allowing a sporty driving.

In the corner, the 900 network reflects the same transparency and stability. Do not doubt then, production, twisting the right rubber, under the supervision of TCS. Don’t worry sides of tires Bridgestone S20, where does not move under the kicks, contributing by their behavior profile rather round and progressive feedback frame.

Chassis

As you might expect, the XSR 900 has a part cycle of the formidable, with a remarkable neutrality. And this, above all because his suspension now give you a healthy behavior for any occasion. The biggest cuts are always transmitted a little cutting from the shock, but these benefits are quite consistent with the standard segment.

For the most demanding, a fork Andreani kit is available against 561.60 € including two cartridges 20 mm Pistons for compression, relaxation and preload setting in beautiful anodized plugs. An Ohlins YA335, €590, cushion must sublimate the roadster.

braking

Powerful, the brakes almost too Reflex, front calipers provide sport slowdowns. A little bit of fingering ensure fear without hindrance and without reproach. If the rear clamp quickly triggers the ABS, however complements humps opposite.

More restrained, suspensions do not lose in comfort, especially because the thickness of the saddle that participate in the approval of the pilot. Less careful, the passenger will have to deal with capacity reduced, high foot and positioned forward, without waiting and a mechanical spicy. A personal choice that it could motivate the blind love.

Finally, flexible pouches may complete the machine for longer trips.

consumption

After 162 km lent fast and composed of many outputs acceleration reserve rhythms / my witness showed then, almost a 7-litre to 100. Some of my colleagues have, however, with less than 6 liters. In the second part of the trip, more reasonable and consistent with the normal use, the 900 network which has swallowed 6.3 litres of unleaded petrol, which allows 220 km. Figure irrigation suitable for a dynamic sport and thirst for cavalry. Yamaha offers a maximum range of 270 km… probably under Tranxene.

Range and colors Yamaha 900 XSR

Test Conclusion:

A proven and dynamic base Yamaha offers a distinctive and charming, roadster with timeless lines. The changes introduced in electronics and suspensions to optimize this version of the model MT09 vintage. Seductive, the XSR 900 appreciates what ever type of flight. The common air, its obvious a docile companion, mechanical smoothness and torque charming. A sporty pace, who appreciate the ease and convenience of a homogeneous and simple machine. And each time, it has a character of irreproachable finish machine. With a price of €9 699.00 €999.00 and in version 9 of the 60th anniversary of the XSR 900 placed played without a real performance of the kitchen of the competition card. Most beloved €1200 as MT09, their quality finishes and the customization potential to seduce lovers of typed machines.

We are against its €10.995 Ducati Monster 821 network. Performance and a little more adaptable, Bolognese is not short of assets, but does not offer the same style change. Another fascinating Italian Moto Guzzi Griso 8V is 1200 €12.490 asking.

More homogenous and powerful than these rivals, Yamaha XSR 900 must provide a good career and poorly built without their own heritage.