Not a beginner bike. Learn to throttle on something that will pull the wheel up if you mess up - NOT SNATCH THE BIKE OUT FROM UNDERNEATH YOU. Learn to judge your corner speed at 25 mph , not 60.....
I bought an XSR900 after passing and have been on it for 3 years. I think it is a beginner bike so long as you aren't 22 and going to drive it like crazy. Its pretty easy to ride.
@@garethsmith1436 This, in my opinion, is spot on. I started riding a year ago. I'm 26 and have experience on dirtbikes. I started riding (manual shifted) mopeds at 16. Al this 'experience' helped me to develop myself a lot more/better than a 'real' beginner with 0 experience would have. I currently still own my first bike, a Yamaha FZ1-N with 150 horsepower. For me this is a great bike, but it's also not that good of a beginner bike imo. I also rode the MT-10, MT-09 and XSR-900 multiple times. The MT-10 was my bike of choice, but a bit to expensive at the time, that's why I bought the FZ1 instead. With all this said I think Gareth and MOTOBOB are absolutely right. And in addition to that I truly think riding experience on for example mopeds or dirtbikes can be a huge factor as well. For me the XSR-900 would be a perfect beginners bike, but of course it is not for everyone. Stay safe fellow motorcyclists! 🏍
i started on a Ninja 1000, this bike seems like a piece of cake with all the driving aids and multiple modes. I didn't have power modes on my Ninja 1000, I just jumped right into it and had to take it a step at a time. Doing that with driving aids + modes isn't going to make it harder for a beginner, and, awkwardly enough, there's a whole lot of people buying liter bikes as their first bike. To be honest, if you're not going to be messing around right out of the box, it should be fine for a lot of adults with minimal riding experience. Though I recommend all people taking a riding course first regardless of what bike they are buying. Having an experienced rider teaching you precautionary measures, cornering and line of sight type of stuff is more prevantative than hopping on a 400 without a single class under your belt.
To me... the Z900RS looks better in pictures. But, sitting on both back-to-back... the XSR900 won my heart. I just purchased the 2024 in Yammie white/orange. 🤘
Back when I was younger, people my age went with 600cc or 1000cc supersport. All of us survived motorcycling. Maybe because in Asia, we have been riding scooters and dirt bikes years before getting on supersport. I think XSR900 is fine especially when it has wheelie control.
I’ll take the new one over the old one all day every day. Better power, better handling, better electronics and dare I say better looks. Thanks for the great video!
I'm in the same camp. I can see why some people might prefer the older one but I'm a function over form kinda guy. To me it's a bonus that the bike looks as good as it does, with all the features as you said, and at the price point
The saddle, shape-wise is great. scooped to keep the rider in place, and puts the passenger up high for a better view. I'm sick of people ragging on the aesthetics of the saddle. However, it is a shame it is so hard and too narrow.
MOTOBOB, If you were picking between 2022 Triumph street triple RS & 2022 Yamaha XSR900 and were considering only riding fun, performance and overall quality (not looks) which would you pick?
Triples give the satisfaction of a V2 and an in line 4, torque and high rpm horsepower. Great motors!. Easy to work on. Power output similar v4 but more character. Great video
Just get a sheep skin seat cover, yes it looks odd when your not sitting on it, but it will bump you up an inch or more. I bought one for my cafe 79 Yamaha XS1100 Special, and it's awesome. The cafe (ebay) seat is pretty firm.
I just dropped a deposit on one, so this is very useful information cheers👍. As for the seat, I'll see how it goes but a decent seat upholsterer could add an inch to the pad and that would take some of the rear depth down, although I like the looks. One question, does it come with a USB connector? 👍
Do you know of any aftermarket front fairing that can be added? Love this bike but vowed I would never go naked again after getting beat up by the wind on my Speed Triple.....
I don't think the seat is the worst, bit bulky but has the 80's shape and lines to it. Maybe a cowl would break up the large black upholstery. I do however believe that exhaust is far far worse looking from most angles?
Take it with a grain of salt, though. I've seen the MT-09 and the Tracer 9 in person (both have the same exhaust as this) and it's barely visible in real life, it's tucked down there. These videos never do justice to bike designs because they're never shot at eye level, cameras are always low and the look is different from down there.
Trading my speed block in for it at crescent, its hard to do but it’s a big improvement may just squeeze some gel into the saddle and get powerbronze to make a tailcover
I've been wanting one of these since it was announced but now I'm not sure because I think I want to do more touring then just riding around for a few hours. I actually like the way it looks and all the upgrades sound awesome
The main thing is just taking multiple breaks (should be doing that to hydrate anyway) but it will definitely never be as comfortable as a cruiser. As with everything there are trade offs
Youll be able to cruise, i did an 8 hour day trip on a r3, i got one of these things being unboxed right now, it is going to be my highway/allrounder cruiser
The color on this bike in videos always seems to be a lighter shade of blue, which I like. But in person it seems much darker and less exciting. Dealers around here kinda suck too. Dim showfloor lighting, won't let you ride them or sometimes even turn em on.
really nice bike but think i prefer the looks of my 80s black xsr.some of the upgrades are obviously good thing but the seat and exhaust really do need looking at .
Get the shorter swingarm back on(first thing I've done with my Tracer7-55mm shorter) seat strap off, green number boards stitched into to seat like the original TZR250, tail tidy,pair of clip on handlebars and a bikini fairing, back to my youth, here we come...nailed the late 80s-early '90s design,TZR250 3-MA reverse cylinder design, it and the following model were 2 of the most beautiful motorcycles, Yamaha ever made! Design classics!
No heritage???? Yamaha has a rich heritage of building race and race-inspured machines! This bike in particular was designed using the FZR750 OW-01 race bike as reference, including the blue paint! I personally like this design language of thoroughly modern bikes, that are very clearly inspired by old bikes without outright trying to imitate them.
The xsr is good option on the big retro bike segment,. Design wise the previous bike looks much better compared to this new model. The front looks good but i am not a big fan how the bike looks from the rear section particularly the seat design😐👎👎. the old bike still looks more pleasing and proper retro. Apart from the design everything is nice on this bike it has very good engine that has impressive performance and sound, good features.yes its retro designed MT09, still it manages to standup against its competition, Overall this new XSR 900 is a bike for those who wants to ride solo.
Hey Bob, nice video, your camera works getting better, keep it up. Don’t be too down on the seat as it is authentically retro. In the 80/90s there were many aftermarket seats with humps that mimicked single seat racers and while perhaps not the prettiest accessory if you can get a cover for it to give you that retro solo seat look like the FZ750 or FZR1000 or any other sports bike from that era I think it would look awesome! With bikes like Suzuki’s new Hyabusa and this it’s good to see the Japanese producing more modern retros from 80 and 90 rather than trying to compete with the historic brands leave the 50s and 60s to Triumph and concentrate on their own golden age.
Have you seen or heard anything about the XSR GP model from Yamaha? Essentially a retro fairing package and presumably the same upgrades the SP gets for the MT models.
Beginners = No/little riding experience Advance beginners = Have riding experience / riding on a low CC bike (50cc/150cc/300cc, etc.) I hope more reviewers would include this distinction in their review video because the classification is somewhat important to avoid confusion. I myself consider as an advance beginner, been riding for almost 2 years on my 250cc bike. Recently bought the MT-09 2022, and I have no problem handling the bike even on Mode-1.
like the new tech and performance. Nice in blue but no way is it better looking than the last generation, especially the limited addition yellow 60th anniversary model
The only version that speaks retro to me is the previous gen with its classic yellow/black paint scheme. Had Yamaha continued to offer it, I would have absolutely considered it over the z900rs Café I just bought.
I own the 2016 version and I'd buy the new one and keep both if I had time to ride them. Incredible machines, nimble, beautiful, high quality, cheap to maintain and sporty.
Like I said before the Guzzi might not have 100+bhp or all the rider aids but I think it looks better than the XSR certainly if your after the "retro" look again that's only my opinion.
@@TDB7117 can't see the point of having a motorbike and riding so fast you can't take in the scenery being a truck driver I have people pass me at speed only to pull into the services and see them getting out of there vehicle,same as with a bike enjoy being on two wheels and take in the surroundings rather than increase your blood pressure and risk a spill just my opinion
@@philelsey7639 I too am stuck behind the seat of a truck going 68mph, 14 hours a day. On the weekends I’m ready to play! No slow bikes or women for me, thank you very much. 😉
I have an XSR 900 2016 and for me the looks are bang up there compared to any bikes in this category. It’s has an incredible engine, always get comments. Has custom lights all round and I don’t see anything even after 2 years of ownership that comes close to its cafe racer looks - prove me wrong 😬
I won't comment again on the cosmetics, but I'd like to see how it would look with a couple changes. It looks like it has more potential to be a much more motorcycle than it is now.
I don't mind the look, and for a guy who tends to like black bike... I love the blue paint! Would prefer a seat like previous Gen XSR, but I don't mind it's look as far as the "no heritage" comment, it reminds me of 80s & 90s bikes like the TZs.
Tested this today, Gr8 except for the rock hard and to much forward seat. The 2021 is better in that regard. I suggest for taller riders to tilt handlebars forward about 5 inches so ya arse doesnt keep hitting that stupid rear bump. Im trying the MT09sp Tomorrow. But will probably take the Ducati Scramble 800 Icon in Yellow. 110mph and sooo comfy. And way cheaper and classy looking.
IS IT A BEGINNER BIKE QUESTION. A 100 horsepower 400 pound bike is different from a 100 horsepower 700 pound bike. Many inexpensive beginner bikes are air cooled low horsepower bikes. Liquid cooled bikes might be twice the horsepower for the same cc’s. A 125cc A air cooled Grom weighs 250’pounds and 8 horsepower. In contrast, a liquid cooled YZ 85 is 24 horsepower and 150 pounds. Is a beginner with minimal experience with a clutch? Heavier bikes are tough for beginners. Too much horsepower is tough for beginners. Rider aids like stability control(cornering abs, corners TC) are great safety items for beginners and experienced riders. High seat heights can be a challenge as one leg vs 2 leg, flat foot or not. If you can ride your present bike 100% in all situations, you are definitely ready for a larger bike. Take the time to ride a smaller bike well before moving to another bike that your afraid of. Some of these powerful bikes are not much fun keeping less than quarter throttle as triple digits appear too fast.
Called and talked to YSP a couple weeks ago, they said they haven't heard anything yet unfortunately! It's a shame that the home country doesn't get first dibs, let alone a proper release date!
@@benreiter7218 it came up on there website today, I was shocked. But I’m sure like all Ysp yamahas you need to buy it without a demo/test ride. Though I am very happy with my tracer 900gt so I’m sure this will be great
Bob I'm not being funny but they have stuck one half of the tracer9 screen on the end. Very lazy from yamaha if they only used proper tfts I think the tracer gt would sell in spades
I think the throttle response is quite a bit better. And it’s a lot lighter. So even tho it’s only 8hp more or something it feels much more lively to me. Would like to ride them back to back tho
Hello mister! I'm glad you answered the question about the bike being ok for a beginner! I'm 32, 110 kg. I've owned a fast car in the past and consider myself extremely responsable, what are my chances of surviving if I get this as my 1st bike? I eally fell in love with the way it looks/sounds
As Bob said, your chances of survival after getting this for your first bike is dependent on your self control and commitment to keeping it in Mode 3 or Mode 4 for the first few months. You probably want to consider starting out on an XSR700 instead.
If possible you should try one just to give yourself an idea, the previous version is quite stg in terms of power and snatchiness but if you're calm and gentle it's fine
@@jamesdarnell8568 I considered the xsr700, but its a but too "skinny" for my liking, I like the thick lines of the 900, although I gotta say, the black/gold xsr700 from this year is quite a beauty
Honestly if you're responsible I feel you'll be fine. Huge if though that acceleration is addicting. This bike will do 0-60 in 3.2 seconds. Don't let the "retro" look fool you this thing is a naked street fighter through and through, and I love it for that.
Definitely not a pick for a beginner !! XSR700 is way more convenient to start with, and includes tons of fun with the punchy CP2. Easily 2-3 years of pleasure guaranteed as a first bike (I own one XSR700 and love it, perfect for city). Yet 3 years later I feel I have experienced it quite goold, and I want a more powerful bike - ideally a 3 cylinders-, so maybe I will try the 900
@@macc1370 wow 52K miles is quite a history with the bike !! I am at about 10k so far... Yet I find that the 700 is a pain on highway. Not really because of the lack of protection (roadster...) but I find it too "lightweighted". Too agile for highway speed. This baby is craving for mountain roads!!
@@macc1370 52,000 miles nice, I just had me mt07 valve clearances checked at 35,000kms and they are sweet as there very reliable engines along as you maintain them well
I thought there was a rear seat cowel to hide that hideous hunch back of Notre Dame rear seat? I'd also fit an after market bikini fairing. Stock tyres any good - wet and dry?
No seat cowl but it would help. There’s a black flyscreen which balances the bike out a bit. And the tyres are excellent but it’s easy to say that on a warm day in Italy. Need to test them out on a windy, wet day in the uk to be able to give them a full endorsement.
Does it wheelie? Really is that a question 😄😄😄 this bike is a beast lol I’m not sayin it’s a 1000 but guys this bike is pretty aggressive. I test rode with Yamaha at motoamerica laguna seca loved it badass platform
Wish they'd put a square headlight on this for the authentic 90s streetfighter look. That round plastic waste paper basket looks properly rubbish on this otherwise awesome looking machine...
Good video. Contemplating between a 2023 XSR900 or a 2023 Z900 RS SE. Both have their strong points, but the price difference has me leaning towards the XSR. Only downfall I see thus far is the smaller fuel tank capacity on it.
Hi Bob.. I have a fully customised Speed Twin 1200 from 2019 and am looking at this bike. The Speed Twin is almost in need of a big service and has already 20k (km) on it. I'm in a situation now where I can swap the Speed Twin for a XSR900 with 900 km on it. I only need to pay 1000 euros extra so around the same price as the big service. What would you choose?
To me it looks like its been dropped so buddy couldnt afford to replace the fairings then he decided to make it a cafe racer. To much mix match going on. Get a Royal Enfield or Triumph if you want that cafe/vintage look.
@@busboy3232 this bike is not trying to be a cafe bike. It's an 80's, Moto GP inspired bike--and it's lines echoes back to those times. The Yamaha has better reliability and much easier to get serviced, as well. Cheaper and easier to find parts for, also. And the thrill/speed factor by far exceeds that of a 50 horsepower Royal Enfield. I do like the looks of the R.E. GT continental, though. This bike looks much better in the all black paint scheme. Looks a bit like a road warrior bike.
Everything about the MT-09 looks good except its nose. I can definitely overlook its need for a nose job if this new XSR didn’t exist. Both bikes perform exceptionally for the money!
@@TDB7117 It would cost a pretty penny, but if I could mount one of those Motodemic round LED headlights to an MT-09 SP and find a flyscreen to match...that would complete the high-tech cafe look, and I'd be a very happy man.
@@rogerkay8603 Aye, at the end of season, or when an upgrade comes, where I bought my last 2 Yamahas, bought a '17 in 2018, and and a '20 in 2021...must have a contract to empty the Yamaha warehouse?
You'd think "performance" would be the number one desire of a bike? People are more worried about how something they sit on looks like from 5 meters away! Go figure
@@ronedee I will say that I’m a lot more tolerant of hideous styling if a bike is wicked fast. Comfort on the other hand, particularly seat comfort is not something I can bear to be over lenient about. Horsepower aside, if I’m sitting on a slab of granite I can’t enjoy the thrill as long.
@@ronedee some people doesn't care about performance so how important it is to someone is subjective. I totally agree with you but some people cannot tell a performance difference. They just ride whatever.
There's already owner videos on youtube..... The hump is hollow empty space. Could easily add a flat seat or something but you might want a small hump to keep your butt on bike.
To quote an advert in California for a Yamaha TZR250 3XV..."Wow,that is one good looking motorcycle"...why Yamaha have returned to that era, it and the 3-MA... the clueless 'SpecSavers Mob' just cannot see it...going to be a lot of custom built one's of these produced, just wait!
Hmm define 'retro'... doesn't really conjure up anything old, like the original RD350. It does have a vague resemblance to a RD350LC in Candy Blue, but it's a big stretch. That seat is ugly, no matter what, first order of business is building a replacement.
I'm in the no camp with the looks, no class, the exhaust is as rough as guts, the tank looks like half of it is plastic, and that seat/rear end, what were they thinking?. Perhaps next years model will look better.
Not a beginner bike. Learn to throttle on something that will pull the wheel up if you mess up - NOT SNATCH THE BIKE OUT FROM UNDERNEATH YOU. Learn to judge your corner speed at 25 mph , not 60.....
Yeah sorry I think I should have been more direct about that: Beginners Should Buy The 700. Pinned this comment for others to see 👍
I bought an XSR900 after passing and have been on it for 3 years. I think it is a beginner bike so long as you aren't 22 and going to drive it like crazy. Its pretty easy to ride.
@@garethsmith1436 good to hear! I guess that's what I was trying to say in the video - it massively depends on the rider.
@@garethsmith1436 This, in my opinion, is spot on. I started riding a year ago. I'm 26 and have experience on dirtbikes. I started riding (manual shifted) mopeds at 16.
Al this 'experience' helped me to develop myself a lot more/better than a 'real' beginner with 0 experience would have.
I currently still own my first bike, a Yamaha FZ1-N with 150 horsepower. For me this is a great bike, but it's also not that good of a beginner bike imo. I also rode the MT-10, MT-09 and XSR-900 multiple times. The MT-10 was my bike of choice, but a bit to expensive at the time, that's why I bought the FZ1 instead.
With all this said I think Gareth and MOTOBOB are absolutely right. And in addition to that I truly think riding experience on for example mopeds or dirtbikes can be a huge factor as well.
For me the XSR-900 would be a perfect beginners bike, but of course it is not for everyone.
Stay safe fellow motorcyclists! 🏍
i started on a Ninja 1000, this bike seems like a piece of cake with all the driving aids and multiple modes. I didn't have power modes on my Ninja 1000, I just jumped right into it and had to take it a step at a time. Doing that with driving aids + modes isn't going to make it harder for a beginner, and, awkwardly enough, there's a whole lot of people buying liter bikes as their first bike. To be honest, if you're not going to be messing around right out of the box, it should be fine for a lot of adults with minimal riding experience. Though I recommend all people taking a riding course first regardless of what bike they are buying. Having an experienced rider teaching you precautionary measures, cornering and line of sight type of stuff is more prevantative than hopping on a 400 without a single class under your belt.
To me... the Z900RS looks better in pictures. But, sitting on both back-to-back... the XSR900 won my heart. I just purchased the 2024 in Yammie white/orange. 🤘
I have the 2022 MT-09 and 2023 XSR 900. The longer swing-arm of the XSR to me make it handle much better.
Back when I was younger, people my age went with 600cc or 1000cc supersport. All of us survived motorcycling. Maybe because in Asia, we have been riding scooters and dirt bikes years before getting on supersport. I think XSR900 is fine especially when it has wheelie control.
I love my xsr 900 2023 yesterday I just hit 145 mph for the first time. Will see what happens with a new exhaust.
I feel this gen is not quite as classic retro as the previous gen. It's more 80s looking and I feel it's still good looking.
I’ll take the new one over the old one all day every day. Better power, better handling, better electronics and dare I say better looks.
Thanks for the great video!
I'm in the same camp. I can see why some people might prefer the older one but I'm a function over form kinda guy. To me it's a bonus that the bike looks as good as it does, with all the features as you said, and at the price point
I’m gonna buy it from the dealer next season. Finally found my dream bike
The saddle, shape-wise is great. scooped to keep the rider in place, and puts the passenger up high for a better view. I'm sick of people ragging on the aesthetics of the saddle. However, it is a shame it is so hard and too narrow.
Its ugly broooooo
Then why are you watching a video about it? Are you in the market for an ugly bike?
MOTOBOB, If you were picking between 2022 Triumph street triple RS & 2022 Yamaha XSR900 and were considering only riding fun, performance and overall quality (not looks) which would you pick?
Triples give the satisfaction of a V2 and an in line 4, torque and high rpm horsepower. Great motors!. Easy to work on. Power output similar v4 but more character. Great video
Just get a sheep skin seat cover, yes it looks odd when your not sitting on it, but it will bump you up an inch or more. I bought one for my cafe 79 Yamaha XS1100 Special, and it's awesome. The cafe (ebay) seat is pretty firm.
I just dropped a deposit on one, so this is very useful information cheers👍. As for the seat, I'll see how it goes but a decent seat upholsterer could add an inch to the pad and that would take some of the rear depth down, although I like the looks. One question, does it come with a USB connector? 👍
You can get one as an accessory or part of a pack.
@@adiohead thanks I'll double check 👍👍
My 700 didn't but a £3 accessory on eBay that connected to the spare factory switched port near the tank sorted that quickly and easily.
Do you know of any aftermarket front fairing that can be added? Love this bike but vowed I would never go naked again after getting beat up by the wind on my Speed Triple.....
Great video,as usual. Great looking machine, love your answer about "does it wheelie" No very short and sweet. Keep them coming Bob
I don't think the seat is the worst, bit bulky but has the 80's shape and lines to it. Maybe a cowl would break up the large black upholstery.
I do however believe that exhaust is far far worse looking from most angles?
whoever in yamaha agreed for this stock exhaust is either evil or blind
Take it with a grain of salt, though. I've seen the MT-09 and the Tracer 9 in person (both have the same exhaust as this) and it's barely visible in real life, it's tucked down there. These videos never do justice to bike designs because they're never shot at eye level, cameras are always low and the look is different from down there.
My favourite bike, absolutely luv it, and your video was just what I needed, to make my mind up, so thanks 😊 take care.
Trading my speed block in for it at crescent, its hard to do but it’s a big improvement may just squeeze some gel into the saddle and get powerbronze to make a tailcover
I've been wanting one of these since it was announced but now I'm not sure because I think I want to do more touring then just riding around for a few hours. I actually like the way it looks and all the upgrades sound awesome
You could get the tracer 900
@@Peter-wb9gt that is a good point
The main thing is just taking multiple breaks (should be doing that to hydrate anyway) but it will definitely never be as comfortable as a cruiser. As with everything there are trade offs
Youll be able to cruise, i did an 8 hour day trip on a r3, i got one of these things being unboxed right now, it is going to be my highway/allrounder cruiser
The color on this bike in videos always seems to be a lighter shade of blue, which I like. But in person it seems much darker and less exciting. Dealers around here kinda suck too. Dim showfloor lighting, won't let you ride them or sometimes even turn em on.
really nice bike but think i prefer the looks of my 80s black xsr.some of the upgrades are obviously good thing but the seat and exhaust really do need looking at .
Get the shorter swingarm back on(first thing I've done with my Tracer7-55mm shorter) seat strap off, green number boards stitched into to seat like the original TZR250, tail tidy,pair of clip on handlebars and a bikini fairing, back to my youth, here we come...nailed the late 80s-early '90s design,TZR250 3-MA reverse cylinder design, it and the following model were 2 of the most beautiful motorcycles, Yamaha ever made! Design classics!
No heritage???? Yamaha has a rich heritage of building race and race-inspured machines! This bike in particular was designed using the FZR750 OW-01 race bike as reference, including the blue paint!
I personally like this design language of thoroughly modern bikes, that are very clearly inspired by old bikes without outright trying to imitate them.
If one has to carry a passenger frequently the Z900rs is the better option....For a single rider this one is better or at least promises more fun...
The xsr is good option on the big retro bike segment,. Design wise the previous bike looks much better compared to this new model. The front looks good but i am not a big fan how the bike looks from the rear section particularly the seat design😐👎👎.
the old bike still looks more pleasing and proper retro. Apart from the design everything is nice on this bike it has very good engine that has impressive performance and sound, good features.yes its retro designed MT09, still it manages to standup against its competition,
Overall this new XSR 900 is a bike for those who wants to ride solo.
No reference to longer swing arm which changes the ride a lot from previous model?
Hey Bob, nice video, your camera works getting better, keep it up. Don’t be too down on the seat as it is authentically retro. In the 80/90s there were many aftermarket seats with humps that mimicked single seat racers and while perhaps not the prettiest accessory if you can get a cover for it to give you that retro solo seat look like the FZ750 or FZR1000 or any other sports bike from that era I think it would look awesome! With bikes like Suzuki’s new Hyabusa and this it’s good to see the Japanese producing more modern retros from 80 and 90 rather than trying to compete with the historic brands leave the 50s and 60s to Triumph and concentrate on their own golden age.
Have you seen or heard anything about the XSR GP model from Yamaha? Essentially a retro fairing package and presumably the same upgrades the SP gets for the MT models.
Beginners = No/little riding experience
Advance beginners = Have riding experience / riding on a low CC bike (50cc/150cc/300cc, etc.)
I hope more reviewers would include this distinction in their review video because the classification is somewhat important to avoid confusion. I myself consider as an advance beginner, been riding for almost 2 years on my 250cc bike. Recently bought the MT-09 2022, and I have no problem handling the bike even on Mode-1.
like the new tech and performance. Nice in blue but no way is it better looking than the last generation, especially the limited addition yellow 60th anniversary model
The only version that speaks retro to me is the previous gen with its classic yellow/black paint scheme. Had Yamaha continued to offer it, I would have absolutely considered it over the z900rs Café I just bought.
I love my xsr900. It did do a backflip with the wheelie control on tho.
I own the 2016 version and I'd buy the new one and keep both if I had time to ride them. Incredible machines, nimble, beautiful, high quality, cheap to maintain and sporty.
Do you know if the older model seats like yours would direct fit to the 2023 version?
@@straightcutministries6894 I do not know. But chassis are different so I am afraid you can not adapt the old seat to the new model.
@@josevi5835 thanks for the info 👍
I just put a order for one a couple weeks ago cant wait for it, to bad the sales guy told me maybe they start to arrive to the end of the year.
I think it look great and the seat grows on you.
It does look better in the flesh to be fair
@@motobob yes i agree but still prefer the older models looks way more.
Hi moto bob , I like the looks of the one before this one
Like I said before the Guzzi might not have 100+bhp or all the rider aids but I think it looks better than the XSR certainly if your after the "retro" look again that's only my opinion.
The Guzzi will look good sitting in front of the coffee shop. The XSR900 will look good while passing it on a nice twisty road.
@@TDB7117 can't see the point of having a motorbike and riding so fast you can't take in the scenery being a truck driver I have people pass me at speed only to pull into the services and see them getting out of there vehicle,same as with a bike enjoy being on two wheels and take in the surroundings rather than increase your blood pressure and risk a spill just my opinion
@@philelsey7639 I too am stuck behind the seat of a truck going 68mph, 14 hours a day. On the weekends I’m ready to play! No slow bikes or women for me, thank you very much. 😉
@@TDB7117 at 68 mph you can't be in the UK.have fun stay safe
@@philelsey7639 nope, Colorado USA. Trucks are governed by the company.
You too, keep the rubber side down.
I have an XSR 900 2016 and for me the looks are bang up there compared to any bikes in this category. It’s has an incredible engine, always get comments. Has custom lights all round and I don’t see anything even after 2 years of ownership that comes close to its cafe racer looks - prove me wrong 😬
I won't comment again on the cosmetics, but I'd like to see how it would look with a couple changes. It looks like it has more potential to be a much more motorcycle than it is now.
I don't mind the look, and for a guy who tends to like black bike... I love the blue paint! Would prefer a seat like previous Gen XSR, but I don't mind it's look as far as the "no heritage" comment, it reminds me of 80s & 90s bikes like the TZs.
Tested this today, Gr8 except for the rock hard and to much forward seat. The 2021 is better in that regard. I suggest for taller riders to tilt handlebars forward about 5 inches so ya arse doesnt keep hitting that stupid rear bump.
Im trying the MT09sp Tomorrow.
But will probably take the Ducati Scramble 800 Icon in Yellow. 110mph and sooo comfy. And way cheaper and classy looking.
That rear seat is the only deal breaker for me
IS IT A BEGINNER BIKE QUESTION. A 100 horsepower 400 pound bike is different from a 100 horsepower 700 pound bike. Many inexpensive beginner bikes are air cooled low horsepower bikes. Liquid cooled bikes might be twice the horsepower for the same cc’s. A 125cc A air cooled Grom weighs 250’pounds and 8 horsepower. In contrast, a liquid cooled YZ 85 is 24 horsepower and 150 pounds. Is a beginner with minimal experience with a clutch? Heavier bikes are tough for beginners. Too much horsepower is tough for beginners. Rider aids like stability control(cornering abs, corners TC) are great safety items for beginners and experienced riders. High seat heights can be a challenge as one leg vs 2 leg, flat foot or not. If you can ride your present bike 100% in all situations, you are definitely ready for a larger bike. Take the time to ride a smaller bike well before moving to another bike that your afraid of. Some of these powerful bikes are not much fun keeping less than quarter throttle as triple digits appear too fast.
For the seat look for Kelpi Custom
What of the two colours look best?
Im Jonesing for this bike, currently on a Indian scout
Question 14: Will this come here to Japan? If so, how many months/years do we have to wait for this one?
Called and talked to YSP a couple weeks ago, they said they haven't heard anything yet unfortunately! It's a shame that the home country doesn't get first dibs, let alone a proper release date!
@@benreiter7218 it came up on there website today, I was shocked.
But I’m sure like all Ysp yamahas you need to buy it without a demo/test ride.
Though I am very happy with my tracer 900gt so I’m sure this will be great
I prefer this shorter seat, looks better in my opinion
Good looking bike. Like those ride modes.
Will the older model seats direct fit to 2023 XSR models?
Look at that seat, WHAT WERE THEY THINKING!?!? Did they put a 'hidden' storage compartment in it?
Weed storage.
They are coming out with a a2 35kw version, so if you are a beginner, yes it’s good, and once you’re confident you can derestrict it
Did you hang out with the Baron?
I don't care about heritage, I just want an MT09 that doesn't look like a cheap toy.
Go away scammer.
This or the Kawa 900 rs for bumpy British B roads?
As2017 XSR900 owner, I think the main question is if the knee position been improved?
I chose an MT09 over the XSR because of that back in 2016 even though i liked the look of the XSR way more.
Hey!does the xsr shares the same fork with the mt09?
What is your height? Is the new xsr900 ok for 5.5 ft rider? Thanks
Is that seat ugly and does it look uncomfortable? Yes and yes.
Bob I'm not being funny but they have stuck one half of the tracer9 screen on the end. Very lazy from yamaha if they only used proper tfts I think the tracer gt would sell in spades
Love the underbelly exhaust vs the ugly muffler on the side of the bike.
would it make a good daily?
does it feels more powerful than the z900rs?
I think the throttle response is quite a bit better. And it’s a lot lighter. So even tho it’s only 8hp more or something it feels much more lively to me. Would like to ride them back to back tho
Hello mister! I'm glad you answered the question about the bike being ok for a beginner! I'm 32, 110 kg. I've owned a fast car in the past and consider myself extremely responsable, what are my chances of surviving if I get this as my 1st bike? I eally fell in love with the way it looks/sounds
As Bob said, your chances of survival after getting this for your first bike is dependent on your self control and commitment to keeping it in Mode 3 or Mode 4 for the first few months. You probably want to consider starting out on an XSR700 instead.
If possible you should try one just to give yourself an idea, the previous version is quite stg in terms of power and snatchiness but if you're calm and gentle it's fine
@@Peter-wb9gt thanks for taking the time to give your thoughts!
@@jamesdarnell8568 I considered the xsr700, but its a but too "skinny" for my liking, I like the thick lines of the 900, although I gotta say, the black/gold xsr700 from this year is quite a beauty
Honestly if you're responsible I feel you'll be fine. Huge if though that acceleration is addicting. This bike will do 0-60 in 3.2 seconds.
Don't let the "retro" look fool you this thing is a naked street fighter through and through, and I love it for that.
Definitely not a pick for a beginner !! XSR700 is way more convenient to start with, and includes tons of fun with the punchy CP2. Easily 2-3 years of pleasure guaranteed as a first bike (I own one XSR700 and love it, perfect for city). Yet 3 years later I feel I have experienced it quite goold, and I want a more powerful bike - ideally a 3 cylinders-, so maybe I will try the 900
I’m in the same camp 🏕 my xsr700 has 52,000 miles and that 900 sure is looking good for those highway miles as well as around town
@@macc1370 wow 52K miles is quite a history with the bike !! I am at about 10k so far... Yet I find that the 700 is a pain on highway. Not really because of the lack of protection (roadster...) but I find it too "lightweighted". Too agile for highway speed. This baby is craving for mountain roads!!
@@macc1370 52,000 miles nice, I just had me mt07 valve clearances checked at 35,000kms and they are sweet as there very reliable engines along as you maintain them well
Xsr900 or cb1000r black edition?
Is the tank aluminum?
How did I miss this bike? Retro,/shmetro - who cares. It just hits the spot regarding so many box tix
I thought there was a rear seat cowel to hide that hideous hunch back of Notre Dame rear seat? I'd also fit an after market bikini fairing. Stock tyres any good - wet and dry?
No seat cowl but it would help. There’s a black flyscreen which balances the bike out a bit.
And the tyres are excellent but it’s easy to say that on a warm day in Italy. Need to test them out on a windy, wet day in the uk to be able to give them a full endorsement.
@@motobob No rain on the plain in Spain?
There are rumours of a XSR GP which Yamaha has submitted documents for.
Does it wheelie? Really is that a question 😄😄😄 this bike is a beast lol I’m not sayin it’s a 1000 but guys this bike is pretty aggressive. I test rode with Yamaha at motoamerica laguna seca loved it badass platform
If an sp version is available it may tempt me away from my beloved Speed Twin.
Wish they'd put a square headlight on this for the authentic 90s streetfighter look. That round plastic waste paper basket looks properly rubbish on this otherwise awesome looking machine...
Did you meet 44teeth?
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Not my eye at least…
They look a bit better in the flesh, but i do prefer the older model.
Very nice review and Q&A. How does the quick shifter compared with the one on CB1000R black edition?
Both good. I think this is up there with the best though - super crisp. Yamahas just feel so well put together especially given the price
Hopefully one of the aftermarket seat mobs are working hard on a replacement seat
Why? Being designed (same outline) as one of the most beautiful Yamahas ever built, the TZR250 3-MA, why would you ruin it's looks?
@@williamrae9954 because I while I may respect your view I do not Share your view that it is beautiful. I think it looks fugly
Good video. Contemplating between a 2023 XSR900 or a 2023 Z900 RS SE. Both have their strong points, but the price difference has me leaning towards the XSR. Only downfall I see thus far is the smaller fuel tank capacity on it.
2016 Aniversary yellow ones are the best ones Hit like if you agree with me
Hi
Hi Bob.. I have a fully customised Speed Twin 1200 from 2019 and am looking at this bike. The Speed Twin is almost in need of a big service and has already 20k (km) on it. I'm in a situation now where I can swap the Speed Twin for a XSR900 with 900 km on it. I only need to pay 1000 euros extra so around the same price as the big service. What would you choose?
To me it looks like its been dropped so buddy couldnt afford to replace the fairings then he decided to make it a cafe racer. To much mix match going on. Get a Royal Enfield or Triumph if you want that cafe/vintage look.
Some people might prefer something that runs.
@@TDB7117 Got 35000km's on my RE interceptor already..Running great.
@@busboy3232 this bike is not trying to be a cafe bike. It's an 80's, Moto GP inspired bike--and it's lines echoes back to those times. The Yamaha has better reliability and much easier to get serviced, as well. Cheaper and easier to find parts for, also. And the thrill/speed factor by far exceeds that of a 50 horsepower Royal Enfield. I do like the looks of the R.E. GT continental, though. This bike looks much better in the all black paint scheme. Looks a bit like a road warrior bike.
This or a Z900RS?
I would say Bang for Buck, the XSR 👍
Z900rs as far as looks and comfort. Definitely can't go wrong with either
Did you even watch the video?
@@MotoRiderTube change your channel name to critical negative person
XSR 900 if you prefer performance
Z900RS if you want to bike from the 70s
Ngl I would have the Kawasaki
The bike looks great, except the seat. The seat throws me off, and doesn't seem to match the bike.
Love the bike, BUT nothing worse than being too tall and your knees don’t fit into the tank shape
I would buy this if it looked different. I love the previous gen, and think the mt09 looks better than this
Just a shame about that back end !
Looks awesome but.... that seat
I never thought I'd see a bike that made me think the 2021 MT-09 actually looks good
Everything about the MT-09 looks good except its nose. I can definitely overlook its need for a nose job if this new XSR didn’t exist. Both bikes perform exceptionally for the money!
@@TDB7117 It would cost a pretty penny, but if I could mount one of those Motodemic round LED headlights to an MT-09 SP and find a flyscreen to match...that would complete the high-tech cafe look, and I'd be a very happy man.
I love the looks, and at £9.5K its a bit of a bargain.
£10.200
@@williamrae9954 Shop around (Wigan or Chorley Yamaha)
@@rogerkay8603 Aye, at the end of season, or when an upgrade comes, where I bought my last 2 Yamahas, bought a '17 in 2018, and and a '20 in 2021...must have a contract to empty the Yamaha warehouse?
You'd think "performance" would be the number one desire of a bike? People are more worried about how something they sit on looks like from 5 meters away! Go figure
Both are important. Why does it have to be one or the other?
@@DPham1 It doesn't have to be one or the other.... Looks are subjective, performance isn't.
@@ronedee I will say that I’m a lot more tolerant of hideous styling if a bike is wicked fast. Comfort on the other hand, particularly seat comfort is not something I can bear to be over lenient about. Horsepower aside, if I’m sitting on a slab of granite I can’t enjoy the thrill as long.
@@ronedee some people doesn't care about performance so how important it is to someone is subjective. I totally agree with you but some people cannot tell a performance difference. They just ride whatever.
@@Heavywall70 Agreed. Changing a seat is easy and personal preference. I can't remember a bike I didn't change a seat for?
That miniscule headlight and BREAD LOAF seat. Proportions ALL over the place. 👎😒🤮
Otherwise, a perfect motorcycle. 👍
It sure seems like Yamaha won’t let anyone on the press release take the seat off and show it...........
There's already owner videos on youtube..... The hump is hollow empty space. Could easily add a flat seat or something but you might want a small hump to keep your butt on bike.
@@ganuvien I've only seen one owner video. The rest are people getting paid to test the bike.
This bike is eye catching in person. It doesnt come through well in video
What were they thinking with that seat? It’s hideous!
To quote an advert in California for a Yamaha TZR250 3XV..."Wow,that is one good looking motorcycle"...why Yamaha have returned to that era, it and the 3-MA... the clueless 'SpecSavers Mob' just cannot see it...going to be a lot of custom built one's of these produced, just wait!
Hmm define 'retro'... doesn't really conjure up anything old, like the original RD350. It does have a vague resemblance to a RD350LC in Candy Blue, but it's a big stretch. That seat is ugly, no matter what, first order of business is building a replacement.
I'm in the no camp with the looks, no class, the exhaust is as rough as guts, the tank looks like half of it is plastic, and that seat/rear end, what were they thinking?. Perhaps next years model will look better.
i cant believe yamaha ruined such good looking bike with this year model. shame.