The Yamaha XSR900 GP is a nod to the golden era of 1980s GP racing, embracing a pure nostalgia for those times.
During that iconic period, the Marlboro paint scheme was synonymous with racing, particularly with the McLaren Formula 1 team. Yamaha also left its mark in the vibrant red and white Marlboro colors, most notably with Wayne Rainey. Eddie Lawson also celebrated three titles in the distinctive red and white Marlboro Yamaha livery. Loris Capirossi, while primarily associated with Ducati in Marlboro colors from 2003 to 2007, had his initial 500cc GP win in 1995 under the Marlboro Yamaha banner.
The allure of the Marlboro’s red-and-white is undeniable, and it’s the first thing that catches the eye with the new Yamaha XSR900 GP. This model proudly features the iconic red-and-white pattern, albeit without the cigarette brand’s logos.
The roots of the standard XSR900 trace back to Yamaha’s 1980s Grand Prix motorcycles. The renowned Deltabox frame, first introduced on the 1982 Yamaha YZR500 0W61, was developed in the 500cc World Championship.
The XSR900 GP, taking inspiration from 1980s Grand Prix machines, introduces a new square front cowl, which also shapes the headlight with a square design. Besides the aesthetic appeal, Yamaha claims that this design enhances aerodynamics. The attachment of the cowl is reminiscent of the ’80s era, with a tubular structure connecting it to the frame. The dashboard is supported by straight brackets.
Yamaha has gone even further by using a nut structure identical to the one used on the original TZ250 production racer to support the upper fairing. This nut structure is secured with a beta pin, a first for a Yamaha production bike meant for the road.
Other notable features of the new XSR900 GP include clip-on bars, a third-generation quickshifter, a more forward riding position, chassis adjustments through an aluminum steering stem shaft to accommodate the new riding position, Spinforged wheels, Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires, fully adjustable KYB front suspension, a KYB rear shock with remote tuning, and a Brembo radial front master cylinder.
For enhanced control and customization, Yamaha offers the Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) system, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike’s characteristics, including engine power and electronic intervention. YRC offers preset modes like ‘Sport,’ ‘Street,’ and ‘Rain,’ which can be selected and managed through a user-friendly five-inch TFT display, as well as two custom modes that riders can tailor to their preferences. Navigating the display is made simpler with new switchgear, and the electronic aids benefit from Yamaha’s six-axis IMU.
Additionally, the XSR900 GP incorporates an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function that detects abrupt braking, automatically engaging hazard lights to alert following vehicles to the rider’s heavy braking.
While UK pricing and availability details for the XSR900 GP are yet to be announced, it will be available in the legendary ‘Legend Red’ and ‘Power Grey’ colors reminiscent of the Marlboro style.
