The new-for-2018 Yamaha XSR700 blends the new and old. It’s based on the modern FZ-07 platform with 689cc Crossplane Concept parallel twin and has styling influenced by Yamaha XS motorcycles from the ’60s to ’80s.
On the opening day of the American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) in Columbus, Ohio, Yamaha announced a new addition to its 2018 Sport Heritage lineup, the XSR700. Like the XSR900 introduced for 2016 and based on the 847cc in-line triple-powered FZ-09 naked sportbike, the XSR700 is based on the 689cc parallel-twin-powered FZ-07.
Read our 2016 Yamaha XSR900 review
Read our 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 review
One of the 2018 Yamaha XSR700’s nods to the past is the round headlight.
A chip off the old block, the XSR700 combines neo-retro styling, a frisky Crossplane Concept 270-degree-crank engine, light weight and sporty geometry, which should make for an exciting, back-to-the-future ride. It features a steel frame, a 6-speed transmission with chain final drive, 5.1 inches of front/rear suspension travel (the only adjustment is rear preload), triple disc brakes with standard ABS, an LCD instrument panel and a 3.7-gallon fuel tank. Read our 2017 Yamaha FZ-09 review
The liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 689cc Crossplane Concept parallel twin makes a claimed 50 lb-ft of torque.
A higher, wider handlebar and slightly taller seat give the XSR a more upright seating position than the FZ-07, and it should offer decent leg room. Claimed wet weight is a sprig...