MRW Issue 33

THE MOTOR IS FEISTY AND
THANKS TO THE CHANGES,
MORE EAGER THAN EVER TO
BE REVVED AND EXPLORED.
smoothen out the ride and jerkiness the old XSR was
plagued with at lower rpm and speeds. The motor is
feisty and thanks to the changes, more eager than ever
to be revved and explored. The addition of a bilateral
quick-shifter enhances the XSR’s theme and fun factor
as well. It’s both smooth and direct and creates the
perfect wingman for the triple motor as they both work
together in perfect harmony to create an orgasmic
soundtrack as you race through the gears. The triple
motor is a thing of beauty, silky smooth and soft when
you want it to be, and then aggressive and sporty as you
get more adventurous with it.
The handling isn’t bad either as the XSR900 shares
most of its chassis with the MT-09 but uses a bespoke
subframe, a longer swingarm, and a lower steering head.
It also uses Yamaha’s spin-forged wheels. The MT09-
derived cast alloy Deltabox frame offers the right amount
of flex and rigidity which aids in more predictable and
better handling. In addition, the 900 is lighter than its
predecessor weighing in at just 193kg. The suspension
is rather basic but at the same time gets the job done.
Up front, you have an upside-down fork that is adjustable