Yamaha XSR 155 vs Yamaha MT-09 Comparison

The Yamaha XSR 155 is one bold move from the Japanese brand, being a neo-retro offering that proves that classic aesthetics can coexist with good performance and dynamics. This machine is genuinely fun when you push its throttle hard, and it handles most of the riding stuff well, such as braking confidence or superbly executed corners.

Sure, it has its flaws, as any other motorcycle does. For instance, the stiff ride quality may annoy some, while the switchgear plastics do not feel like they belong on a premium motorcycle at all. The seating is also focused on making the rider comfortable, not the pillion; the latter suffers during long trips.

But if you are a solo rider in love with the vintage aesthetic but dislike the heavy, lazy nature of traditional classic bikes, the XSR 155 presents the perfect middle ground. It gives you the raw excitement of a proper sports bike, cleverly disguised as a retro beauty.

The Yamaha MT-09 offers a very good package in the middleweight sport naked segment. Responsive engine, communicative chassis with agile handling and a thrilling sound from the intake and exhaust makes the MT-09 a sharp middleweight naked that can take on the very best in the segment.