Chic and stylish ceramic ivory is a special color exclusive to Japan
The 2025 XSR900ABS sports heritage model features a water-cooled, inline-3 888cc engine developed based on the crossplane concept and housed in a lightweight aluminum frame. While maintaining the original concept of "The Expert of Equestrian," the bike boasts even higher quality and superior riding performance. The
press conference began with a presentation by Project Leader Hashimoto, Project Chief Nohara, and design experts Shimizu, Kinoshita, and Fukuyoshi of GK Dynamics. What was particularly striking about the presentation was the attention to detail, while listening carefully to user feedback.
The color design, which determines the bike's first impression, features all-new colors: a sporty Silky White with touches of red, a subdued Black Metallic X, and a chic and stylish Ceramic Ivory. What's more, each model comes with a different color front fork and wheel, with the ivory color model especially featuring Kashima Coat Brown forks and a brown seat, giving it a special feel. What's more, this ivory color is exclusive to Japan, and orders are accepted for a limited time only until September 30, 2025. I'm one of them, and I think there are many people who are drawn to "limited editions," so I think this has made the bike even more appealing.
The press conference for the new XSR900ABS was held at the Super Racer cafe in Shibaura, Tokyo.
Japan-exclusive ivory color
Yamaha engineers and GK Dynamics designers share development secrets in talk show
The wide range of new and revised equipment and features make this a truly significant evolution.
The engine is equipped with YRC (Yamaha Ride Control). The mode function allows riders to select engine output characteristics and the degree of electronic control intervention, enhancing both fun and safe riding. Specifically, three pre-set patterns (SPORT/STREET/RAIN) and two customization options (CUSTOM 1/2) are available, enabling it to be adapted to any riding situation. Mode switching is controlled by a newly adopted multi-function handlebar switch. The system also features YVSL (Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter), which limits engine output to ensure the rider does not exceed the desired speed set by the rider. This assists with speed control and reduces the burden of accelerator operation, supporting a more comfortable ride.
All of these functions can be viewed on the 5-inch full-color TFT display. Furthermore, by installing Y-Connect on a smartphone and pairing it with the vehicle, the display can also display smartphone information such as incoming calls, emails, music, volume control, and weather forecasts. And that's not all. The navigation function becomes available by installing the Garmin StreetCross app on your smartphone and pairing it with the vehicle. It's getting more and more convenient.
Other features include a standard quickshifter with up/down controls, and the footpegs have been changed to rubber-mounted versions.
The vehicle is equipped with a 6-axis IMU (Integrated Measurement Unit) that controls vehicle behavior. The ECU, which feeds information from the IMU back to the vehicle, is equipped with the TCS (Traction Control System), SCS (Slide Control System), LIF (Lift Control System), and BC (Brake Control). Each control system works in conjunction with the others to assist with driving. Each system's intervention level can be adjusted and turned on/off. In short, the latest electronic control systems are fully implemented.
The suspension has also been revised. The 41mm fully adjustable inverted front forks have been reconfigured, and the rear suspension is equipped with a fully adjustable KYB monoshock with a separate sub-tank. Furthermore, the 24-position preload adjuster is remotely adjustable for easy operation. The tires are still Bridgestone Battlax Hypersports, but have been changed from the previous S22 to the S23.
There are many more changes. The black anodized handlebars have been reshaped. The meter bracket is also new. A USB Type-C power socket is installed behind the headlight. The reshaped clutch lever now features an adjuster mechanism. The fuel tank cap has a black finish, and the seat has been improved for better cushioning and comfort, so the improvements really do address every need.
Water-cooled inline 3-cylinder 888cc engine equipped with YRC (Yamaha Ride Control)
The shift pedal with quick shifter has been improved for easier operation. The step has been changed to a rubber-mounted type.
Redesigned handlebars for improved positioning
With the introduction of various electronic control systems, switches have been changed to multi-function types
The clutch lever has been reshaped for improved operability and now comes with an adjustment mechanism.
The seat height is now 815mm, 5mm higher than before, but the cushioning has been improved, so there is no negative impact on foot reach.
Airplane-type fuel cap now has a black finish
Adopts a new meter bracket
The ivory color is equipped with a brown Kashima coated front fork. The damping characteristics have also been revised.
Fully adjustable KYB rear suspension with remote preload adjustment
Two types of customized models of the new XSR900ABS were also on display at the launch venue. Of course, these are not production models, but rather are customization proposals, but I thought they had a lot to offer as proposals that will further expand the ways in which you can enjoy the XSR900.
The XSR900ABS will go on sale on April 14, 2025. The manufacturer's suggested retail price (tax included) is 1,320,000 yen for the white and black models, and 1,353,000 yen for the ivory model. The ivory color model, exclusive to Japan, will also be exhibited at the Osaka, Tokyo, and Nagoya motorcycle shows.
