Yamaha XSR700: A Retro-Modern Masterpiece For The Modern Rider

Yamaha XSR700: A Retro-Modern Masterpiece for the Modern Rider

The Yamaha XSR700, launched in 2016, has been a breath of fresh air in the motorcycle world, offering a compelling blend of retro aesthetics and modern performance. In 2020, Yamaha refined the XSR700 with subtle but significant updates, making it even more appealing to a wider range of riders. This review delves deep into the 2020 Yamaha XSR700, exploring its design, performance, handling, and overall riding experience, to understand why it continues to be a standout motorcycle in the competitive naked sportbike segment.

A Timeless Design with Modern Touches

The XSR700’s design is a harmonious marriage of classic styling and modern sensibilities. Its round headlight, sculpted fuel tank, and minimalist tail section evoke a vintage cafe racer aesthetic, reminiscent of iconic motorcycles from the 1970s and 80s. However, the XSR700 doesn’t simply imitate the past; it integrates modern design elements seamlessly. The sharp lines of the LED headlight, the contemporary instrument cluster, and the sleek, sculpted bodywork give the XSR700 a distinct, modern edge.

The 2020 model further enhances the XSR700’s visual appeal with subtle design tweaks. The fuel tank boasts a new, more sculpted design, adding a touch of aggression to its profile. The instrument cluster, while retaining its classic circular gauge design, now features a digital display for essential information like speed, RPM, and gear position. The addition of a new, sculpted seat with improved comfort and a revised tail section contribute to a more refined and cohesive overall aesthetic.

The XSR700’s design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality. The wide handlebars, low seat height, and comfortable rider triangle make the XSR700 incredibly accessible and comfortable for riders of all sizes and experience levels. The slim fuel tank allows for easy leg positioning, while the wide, flat seat provides ample space for both rider and passenger.

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1 Yamaha XSR700: A Retro-Modern Masterpiece for the Modern Rider

The Heart of the Beast: A Powerful and Responsive Engine

The XSR700 is powered by Yamaha’s renowned 689cc parallel-twin engine, a powerplant known for its smooth, linear power delivery and exceptional torque throughout the rev range. This engine is a testament to Yamaha’s engineering prowess, offering a perfect balance of power and responsiveness for both everyday riding and spirited rides on winding roads.

The engine’s character is defined by its smooth and linear power delivery, making it incredibly easy to ride in both urban and highway conditions. The low-end torque is plentiful, allowing for effortless acceleration from low RPMs, while the engine pulls strongly throughout the rev range, making overtaking a breeze. The 2020 model benefits from a revised engine mapping, which enhances throttle response and makes the engine even more responsive to rider input.

The XSR700’s engine is not just about raw power; it’s about refinement and character. The smooth and linear power delivery, coupled with the engine’s distinct and pleasing exhaust note, provides a truly enjoyable riding experience. Whether you’re cruising on the highway or carving through corners, the XSR700’s engine delivers a satisfying and engaging performance.

Handling: A Dance on Two Wheels

Yamaha XSR700: A Retro-Modern Masterpiece for the Modern Rider

The XSR700’s handling is one of its most impressive aspects. The lightweight chassis, combined with the responsive engine and well-tuned suspension, allows for a truly engaging and rewarding riding experience. The XSR700 feels incredibly agile and nimble, making it a joy to ride on winding roads.

The suspension setup is a perfect blend of comfort and performance. The telescopic front forks and mono-shock rear suspension offer a comfortable ride over rough surfaces, while still providing enough feedback and control for spirited riding. The adjustable suspension allows riders to fine-tune the handling to their preferences and riding style.

The XSR700’s handling is further enhanced by its precise steering and predictable handling characteristics. The bike feels planted and stable at high speeds, while still being incredibly agile and responsive in corners. The lightweight nature of the XSR700 makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and traffic, making it an ideal choice for urban riding.

A Comprehensive Feature Set for the Modern Rider

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The 2020 XSR700 is equipped with a comprehensive set of features that cater to the needs of the modern rider. The LED lighting system provides excellent visibility in all conditions, while the digital instrument cluster displays all the essential information in a clear and concise manner. The XSR700 also features a slip-assist clutch, which makes shifting smoother and easier, especially in low-speed situations.

Yamaha XSR700: A Retro-Modern Masterpiece for the Modern Rider

The XSR700’s versatility is further enhanced by its optional accessories. Yamaha offers a wide range of accessories, including luggage racks, windshields, and heated grips, allowing riders to customize the XSR700 to suit their individual needs and preferences.

A Motorcycle for All Seasons

The XSR700’s versatility extends beyond its feature set; it’s a motorcycle that can be enjoyed in all seasons. The comfortable riding position, coupled with the forgiving suspension and smooth engine, make the XSR700 a great choice for long-distance touring. The bike’s lightweight nature and agile handling make it an absolute joy to ride on winding roads, while its comfortable ergonomics and ample power make it an ideal choice for commuting.

The XSR700’s versatility is further enhanced by its aftermarket potential. The bike’s retro-inspired design makes it a blank canvas for customization, allowing riders to express their individuality and create a unique motorcycle that reflects their personal style.

The XSR700: A Triumph of Modern Retro

The 2020 Yamaha XSR700 is a testament to Yamaha’s commitment to building motorcycles that are both stylish and functional. The XSR700’s retro-inspired design, coupled with its modern performance and comprehensive feature set, makes it a compelling choice for a wide range of riders. Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for a fun and engaging motorcycle or a new rider seeking a stylish and accessible machine, the XSR700 has something to offer.

Here’s a breakdown of the XSR700’s key strengths:

Classic design with modern touches: The XSR700’s design is a perfect blend of retro aesthetics and modern sensibilities, offering a timeless look with a contemporary edge.
Powerful and responsive engine: The 689cc parallel-twin engine provides smooth and linear power delivery, making it enjoyable to ride in all situations.
Agile and nimble handling: The lightweight chassis and well-tuned suspension allow for precise and predictable handling, making the XSR700 a joy to ride on winding roads.
Comprehensive feature set: The XSR700 is equipped with a variety of features that cater to the needs of the modern rider, including LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and a slip-assist clutch.
Versatility and aftermarket potential: The XSR700 is a versatile motorcycle that can be enjoyed in all seasons and can be customized to suit individual preferences.

The XSR700 is not without its drawbacks:

Limited storage space: The XSR700 offers limited storage space, which may be a concern for long-distance touring.
Basic suspension: The suspension, while comfortable, is not as sophisticated as some of its competitors.
Limited wind protection: The lack of a windshield can make the XSR700 uncomfortable for long rides on the highway.

Conclusion: A Motorcycle That’s More Than Just a Ride

The Yamaha XSR700 is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a statement. It’s a statement about style, performance, and the enduring appeal of classic design. The XSR700 is a motorcycle that turns heads and evokes a sense of nostalgia, while still offering the modern features and performance that today’s riders demand. It’s a motorcycle that’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination, and that’s what makes it so special.

For those seeking a motorcycle that offers a compelling blend of retro aesthetics and modern performance, the Yamaha XSR700 is a compelling choice. It’s a motorcycle that’s both stylish and functional, offering a rewarding and enjoyable riding experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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