The XSR125 is fun, but the 155 is even more fun! Yamaha’s small XSR is a street bike | XSR155

Yamaha XSR155…From 525,800 yen (Indonesia model)

It shares its platform with the XSR125, MT-125, YZF-R125/R15, and other models in the official Japanese lineup.

Refined performance, still as good as ever after six years

The first time I test rode the Yamaha XSR155 was in October 2019, shortly after its debut. I still remember how it beautifully inherited the DNA of the original XSR900, not only in styling but also in riding performance. Six years have passed since then, but the fact that it has continued to be produced to this day without any particular model changes is proof of its high level of perfection.

Customization culture seems to be thriving in Indonesia, and Auto Salon Ogiyama, where we borrowed the test vehicle, stocks a wide variety of parts, both genuine and aftermarket, including the 183cc and 206cc kits jointly developed with local company BRT. The room for customization, or the possibility of growth, is sure to be a major deciding factor when choosing your favorite car.

The XSR155 is equipped with a 155.09cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that uses a variable valve mechanism (VVA). Riding it again, it’s clear that it’s more powerful than the 125cc model right from the get-go, and the benefits of the 24% increase in displacement are significant. The intake cam switches at 7,400 rpm, which corresponds to around 100 km/h in top sixth gear. This means that in most situations, including city riding, you’ll be riding with the low- and mid-speed cam. It’s easy to see why Yamaha chose to use such a complex system as VVA.

The VVA switches very smoothly, and the power curve flows seamlessly up to the redline at 11,000 rpm. When pulsing in third gear, the meter reads over 90 km/h, and coupled with the lightweight body of 134 kg, the power performance is so good that it can truly be described as “fast.” The throttle response is faithful to operation, and the clutch lever operation is light. There was no dissatisfaction with the shift feel, and I was once again reminded of the high level of perfection of the power unit.

Handling is natural and easy, and the overall package is highly complete.

The XSR155, XSR125, MT-125, YZF-R125/R15 and others all share a common platform consisting of a steel twin-spar frame and inverted front forks. What’s interesting is that the XSR155 and 125 have a front tire that is one size wider and requires a lower specified air pressure. What’s more, the seating position is slightly further back. There’s no doubt that these differences give their handling a unique feel.

The steering characteristics of the XSR155 are that the front steering angle is rather gentle, yet the feeling of contact with the ground is strong. In addition, the 155 has more torque than the 125, so it’s easier to induce pitching of the body just by operating the throttle, and by making use of this, it is possible to make quick turns. At the same time, there is also the ease of leaving it up to the bike to turn smoothly, and I think this good balance is what supports the popularity of the XSR155. Furthermore, although the standard tires have a semi-block-style tread pattern, they provide more than enough grip on paved roads. Even riders who mainly ride on roads should have little to complain about.

The brakes provide sufficient stopping power for city riding, but on winding roads there were times when I felt that the initial braking force at the front could be a little stronger. This is probably because the engine has more power than the 125, so the pace naturally increased. The body of the bike feels rigid enough to withstand strong braking force, so if you want to ride in a sportier style, changing the brake pads would be an effective solution. The rear brake had good stopping power and controllability.

The main differences between the light motorcycle XSR155 and the Class 2 moped XSR125 are the licensing system and maintenance costs. The 125 has a cost advantage as it can be used for the family bike special clause in voluntary insurance, but depending on the conditions, the difference may be small, or even greater with a long-term contract. As a complete package, the 155 still wins, so we would recommend it without hesitation to riders who often use expressways or who already have a license for a regular motorcycle or higher.

Riding position and foot reach (175cm/68kg)

Detailed explanation

Yamaha XSR155 Main Specifications

Length/width/height 2,007mm/804mm/1,080mm

Seat height 810mm

Wheelbase 1,330mm

Ground clearance 170mm

Vehicle weight 134kg

Engine type Water-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve

Cylinder arrangement Single-cylinder

Displacement 155.09cm³

Bore x stroke 58.0mm x 58.7mm

Compression ratio 11.6:1

Maximum output 14.2kW ​​(15PS) / 10,000 rpm

Maximum torque 14.7N・m (1.2kgf・m) / 8,500 rpm

Starting method Self-

lubrication method Wet sump

Engine oil capacity 1.05L

Fuel tank capacity 10.4L

Intake/fuel system/fuel supply system Fuel injection

Ignition method TCI (transistor type)

Battery type YTZ4V

Spark plug MR8E9

Clutch type Wet multi-plate assist & slipper clutch

Transmission / Transmission method Constant mesh 6-speed / Return type

Frame type Deltabox

Tire size (front / rear) 110/70-17M/C (54S) (tubeless) / 140/70-17M/C (66S) (tubeless)

Braking system (front / rear) Hydraulic single disc brake / Hydraulic single disc brake

Suspension method (front / rear) Telescopic (inverted type) / Swing arm (link type)

*Indonesia model