Will The Yamaha XSR250 Be As Good As The XSR155?

Recently, a rather interesting looking test mule was spotted testing on Indian roads and we think it is the Yamaha XSR250. But, why a new motorcycle when Yamaha could just bring the much-hyped XSR155? Well, here’s why we think Yamaha is going the ‘odd’ way and what will be different between the two siblings.

Firstly, the XSR250 might not be a completely new motorcycle, considering the XSR155 is a lauded machine for its retro-styling. The test mule featured a round headlamp, a slim exhaust, and a flat seat, all reminding us of the XSR155. Its tank shape, bash plate, and a rather abruptly-ending tail section seem to be borrowed from the 155 too.

But, this is where the similarities end. Unlike the XSR155 (which uses the same engine as that of the YZF-R15), Yamaha has gone with a 250cc approach here. Owing to this, the XSR 250 will get the punchy 249cc powerhouse from the FZ-25. Technically, this approach should be better, considering Indians prefer bigger engines on motorcycles in the range of Rs 1.5 lakh-Rs 2 lakh. Further, a bigger and torquier motor is ‘ideal’ for a retro cafe-racer, as seen in the Husqvarna Vitpilen 250.

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The mule sported a telescopic fork (with fork gaiters) and a box-section swingarm, which, again, reminded us of the FZ-25. If these components (including the engine) are indeed shared between them, expect the XSR to be priced as competitively as the FZ-25, which is the most affordable 250cc bike in India. 

Another reason for Yamaha opting for the XSR250 instead of the XSR155 could be to better utilise the FZ-25’s platform. The Yamaha R15 and MT-15 are already clocking good sales numbers, and given the popularity of the XSR in India, the Japanese brand might try to maximise sales of its 250cc offering and increase its market share. The XSR155 could also have cannibalised the MT-15. Considering it’s the only MT-series bike on sale in India, Yamaha might just have been extra cautious.

What else? Given the FZ-25’s features, one can expect the XSR to pack full-LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster (circular, like the one on the XSR 155), a slipper clutch, and ABS. 

All of this sounds like a good package, capable of shaking things up in the 250cc-motorcycle space (but only if it is priced as sharply as the FZ-25). The XSR 250 is expected to be unveiled later this year, and we can’t wait to see how this pans out!