Yamaha Takes Wraps Off The New And Improved XSR700

Thanks to Yamaha's multiple engine options, the XSR lineup is quite popular and caters to a wide audience. And in here sits the XSR700, which has now been updated for 2022. This isn't an overhaul by any means, and the company has just made some fine adjustments to an already well-rounded product. 

Starting with the design. You now get a new, compact all-LED headlamp with LED indicators, in line with the recently updated XSR900. This, coupled with a headlight stay attached to the fork and the new radiator cover, makes the XSR700 seem more composed than before. 

The new XSR700 comes in two new colour options: Historic White and Historic Black. According to the Japanese giant, these are a modern interpretation of the iconic RD350's colours from the early 80s. However, we feel something a little more vibrant would've looked even better on the XSR700.

The features per se remain unchanged, with the motorcycle continuing with a circular LCD instrument cluster and ABS. But for 2022, Yamaha has revised the LCD layout and thrown in new switchgear, making them more user-friendly. 

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Next up, engine and underpinnings. The XSR700 continues with the 689cc twin-cylinder motor. But the peak power and torque see a minor drop to 73.4PS and 67Nm, 1.4PS and 1Nm less than before. However, despite this dip, the XSR700 still has a significant power advantage over its arch-rival, the Kawasaki Z650RS. 

Completing the package are the revised front fork, larger 298mm front disc brakes, and sticky Michelin Road 5 tyres. All this should make the XSR700 much safer and easy-going in the twisties. The 835mm seat height, though, is quite high, at least for the average Indian rider. 

Lastly, like before, the 2022 XSR700 continues to be available in the swanky 'XTribute' variant. Compared to the base model, this one gets a wider, braced handlebar, dirt bike-style handlebar grips and footrests, golden 10-spoke alloys, dual-purpose Pirelli MT-60RS rubber, a single-piece bench seat, and fork gaiters. Owing to the extra equipment, the XSR700 XT weighs 2kg more than the standard variant, which tips the scales at 188kg.

All these are welcome changes, except for the drop in power, of course. As much as we'd love to see this in India, Yamaha has no immediate plans to expand its portfolio of big bikes, which is a bummer.