If you’re eyeing Yamaha’s neo-retro star, the XSR900, the 2025 model isn’t just a fresh coat of paint. While Yamaha’s press releases highlight the basics, eight under-the-radar upgrades could sway your decision between the 2025 and discounted 2024 models. Here’s the deep dive you won’t find in a brochure.
1. The Quickshifter Just Got Smarter
Yamaha’s third-generation Quick Shift System (QSS). The 2024 model already had a stellar up/down quick-shifter, but the 2025 iteration promises smoother clutchless shifts even under acceleration. Yamaha claims it reduces chassis disruption during aggressive riding thanks to refined ECU mapping.
But here’s the kicker: Some riders argue the Gen 2 QSS was already “smooth AF” in daily use. One Rider noted their 2024 model handled downshifts mid-corner just fine. The real gain? Track enthusiasts will appreciate the Gen 3’s consistency during hard deceleration. Low-speed downshifts (like 3rd to 2nd) might still feel jerky, though—a quirk Yamaha hasn’t fully ironed out.
2. The Suspension Upgrade You’ve Been Begging For
Yamaha finally addressed the XSR900’s Achilles’ heel: the rear shock. The 2024 model had adjustable preload and rebound, but the 2025 bike adds high- and low-speed compression damping. This means you can now fine-tune how the shock handles everything from potholes (high-speed hits) to cornering weight transfer (low-speed compression).
Riders on the 2022-2024 models often swapped the stock shock for aftermarket units like Öhlins. Now, Yamaha’s KYB setup brings factory-level adjustability, narrowing the gap with the premium MT-09 SP. If you’re over 180 lbs or love canyon carving, this alone justifies the 2025’s price bump.
3. Say Goodbye to Awkward Switchgear
The 2025 XSR900 ditches the 2024’s clunky scroll wheel for a 5-way joystick on the left handlebar. It’s designed to navigate the new TFT display’s menus, but early testers on the XSR900 GP called the joystick “intuitive” and the old setup “horrible.”
Another subtle win: The turn signals now have self-canceling logic (15 seconds or 500 feet traveled). No more forgetting to flick them off mid-ride.
4. The Seat Isn’t a Plank Anymore
Yamaha’s 2024 seat was infamous for feeling like a “2×6 wrapped in vinyl.” The 2025 redesign promises “improved rider and passenger comfort” with a sleeker profile. Skeptical? So are we. Aftermarket seats from Corbin or Brogue became a rite of passage for 2024 owners, but if Yamaha nailed this update, it’ll save you $300–$500.
5. Your Phone Finally Talks to Your Bike
The 2025 model swaps the 3.5-inch TFT for a 5-inch display with smartphone connectivity via Yamaha’s Y-Connect app. You’ll get call alerts, music controls, and navigation through Garmin StreetCross.
Here’s the catch: The Garmin app has 1-star reviews for buggy performance. Most riders will still slap a Quad Lock on the bars and use Google Maps. That said, the dash-mounted USB-C port (standard now) is a win for keeping devices charged.
6. Hidden Safety Nets: BSR & Speed Limiter
Two new electronic aids debut on the 2025 bike:
- Back Slip Regulator (BSR): Works with the slipper clutch to prevent rear-wheel lock-up during aggressive engine braking. Ideal for wet roads or gravel-strewn corners.
- Variable Speed Limiter (YVSL): Lets you cap your top speed—useful for avoiding tickets or loaning the bike to a rookie.
These aren’t headline features, but they add layers of safety for less-than-perfect conditions.
7. Adjustable Clutch Lever
The 2025 XSR900 adds a 14-position adjustable clutch lever, a rarity in its class. Why does this matter? Customization reduces fatigue if you’ve got smaller hands or hate stretching your fingers at stoplights. The 2024’s non-adjustable lever feels archaic by comparison.
8. The Price vs. Value Debate
The 2025 XSR900’s MSRP is $10,599—$300 more than the 2024. But dealers are slashing 2024 prices by $1,500–$2,300 to clear stock. So, which is smarter?
Team 2025 argues: The suspension, QSS Gen 3, and TFT are worth the premium. Team 2024 counters: The core CP3 engine and chassis are identical. Swap the seat and add a quick-shifter later for less than the price difference.
Factor in the 2025’s delayed U.S. arrival (due to an ECU recall), and the 2024 becomes a steal if you’re buying now.
Who Should Buy Which?
- Tech lovers/track riders: The 2025’s suspension and electronics justify the cost.
- Budget-focused street riders: A discounted 2024 + aftermarket mods = 90% of the experience for less cash.
Yamaha didn’t reinvent the XSR900 for 2025—they refined it. Whether that’s worth $300 or $2,300 depends on how much you value cutting-edge adjustability and a connected dash. Either way, the XSR900 remains a masterpiece of retro-modern thrills.
