Yamaha XSR 155 Review – As the sun crests the horizon and spills golden light over the outskirts of Bangkok, the gleam from the brushed aluminum tank becomes a focal point of nostalgia-meets-modernity. I find myself leaning into a graceful curve, the compact and sprightly motorcycle underneath responding with agility and intent. That machine is the Yamaha XSR 155, and while it might be modest in displacement, it delivers a motorcycling experience that punches far above its weight. In Yamaha’s ever-growing “Sport Heritage” series, the XSR 155 stands out not just for its looks, but for the way it embodies old-school soul with a new-school heart.
The Yamaha XSR 155 isn’t a mere nod to the past—it’s a reimagining. It merges aesthetic reverence for classic motorcycles with the technological prowess of contemporary engineering. This motorcycle is not content to ride on the coattails of retro styling. Instead, it delivers a tactile, functional experience that sets it apart from many other bikes that merely mimic the golden age of motorcycling.
Let’s delve deeper into how the Yamaha XSR 155 manages to walk the fine line between stylish nostalgia and modern rideability without missing a beat.
Yamaha XSR 155: A Vision Rooted in History, Forged by Innovation
From the very first glance, it’s clear that the Yamaha XSR 155 was born from a place of deep design understanding. Yamaha’s designers didn’t just try to recreate a classic bike—they interpreted the elements of retro motorcycles in a fresh, purposeful way. It’s a design language that speaks to seasoned motorcyclists and newcomers alike.
The bike’s round LED headlamp stands as a centerpiece—a quintessential retro feature that, in this case, serves double duty with crisp and modern lighting capabilities. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank, complemented by contrasting brushed aluminum side panels, evokes hand-shaped metalwork but is formed with modern manufacturing accuracy.
The seat, finished in rich diamond-stitched detailing, ties in both form and function. With its slightly elevated rear hump, it channels the cafe racer era while providing legitimate comfort for a second rider. That’s what sets the Yamaha XSR 155 apart—it’s not just stylish for Instagram posts; it’s usable in real life.
Even the round LCD gauge is a perfect example of blending eras. At a glance, it could belong on a classic 1970s naked bike, but inside, it’s all digital precision—gear position indicator, rev counter, trip meter, and more.
Every part of the Yamaha XSR 155 reveals intentionality. The exposed frame sections and machined tank cap invite the rider to connect visually with the machine’s mechanical aspects, something increasingly absent in heavily faired motorcycles of today. Rather than hiding its inner workings, the XSR 155 celebrates them.
Three distinct color options further broaden its appeal. The “Silver Premium” model is arguably the most evocative of the past, with contrasting black and bronze highlights. “Matte Black” appeals to urban minimalists who prefer subdued elegance, while “Racing Blue” introduces an aggressive edge for riders who want their retro machine with a performance-minded twist.
Yamaha XSR 155: A Small Engine with a Big Personality
Behind its vintage-inspired styling, the Yamaha XSR 155 houses a powerhouse of a motor for its class. At the heart of this bike is a 155cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine—the same powerplant that propels the highly respected Yamaha R15 and MT-15. This engine benefits from Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), a system designed to optimize valve timing for both low- and high-rpm operation.
The result? The Yamaha XSR 155 delivers 19.3 PS at 10,000 rpm and 14.7 Nm of torque at 8,500 rpm. Those numbers might not sound staggering on paper, but in a motorcycle that weighs just 134 kilograms (wet), they translate into a remarkably spirited ride. The VVA system provides a noticeable shift in engine tone and response once it crosses the 7,400 rpm threshold. Below that, you get enough torque for calm city cruising. Above it, the bike transforms—urging you to twist the throttle harder.
Perhaps most impressively, the refinement of the engine stands out. Single-cylinder engines are notorious for their vibrations at higher revs, but the Yamaha XSR 155 remains composed, even as the tach needle nears redline. That smoothness means less fatigue on longer rides, and more enjoyment when you’re chasing backroads.
A slick six-speed gearbox with assist-and-slipper clutch rounds out the powertrain. Clutch pull is light, making it easy for city commutes, while the slipper function helps maintain rear wheel stability during aggressive downshifts. The gear ratios are thoughtfully spaced, allowing you to stay in the sweet spot of the VVA system whether you’re navigating slow traffic or pushing on twisty tarmac.
Fuel economy is another strong suit. The Yamaha XSR 155 manages a highly respectable 35–40 km/l depending on your riding style, and with a 10-liter tank, you’re looking at a range of up to 400 km. For those balancing everyday utility with weekend thrills, that kind of efficiency goes a long way.
Chassis and Handling: Confidence Wrapped in Heritage
Where the Yamaha XSR 155 truly separates itself from other retro-style bikes is in the ride. It’s not just a looker—it’s a handler.
The backbone of this prowess is the Deltabox frame, a hallmark of Yamaha’s sportbike engineering. This chassis design imparts exceptional rigidity without the penalty of excess weight. The result is a motorcycle that feels planted in corners yet flickable enough for navigating urban environments.
Suspension duties are handled by 37mm upside-down forks up front and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. This setup, paired with a lightweight aluminum swingarm, provides progressive damping that’s forgiving on potholes yet controlled enough for fast cornering. Whether you’re carving through twisties or gliding over city imperfections, the Yamaha XSR 155 responds with poise.
Braking comes from a 282mm disc with a dual-piston caliper at the front and a 220mm disc with a single-piston caliper at the rear. Stopping power is linear and strong, and the single-channel ABS does its job without being intrusive. While dual-channel ABS would’ve been a welcome addition, especially for safety-conscious riders, the current setup still inspires confidence in most real-world conditions.
The 17-inch alloy wheels are wrapped in IRC Road Winner tires—110mm at the front and 140mm at the rear. These aren’t track-focused compounds, but they provide dependable grip across a wide variety of road surfaces. Combined with the chassis, they help ensure that the Yamaha XSR 155 offers more performance than most riders will ever outgrow.
Real-World Rideability: Everyday Freedom with Weekend Spirit
Swinging a leg over the Yamaha XSR 155 for the first time, you’re greeted by a relaxed and upright riding position. The 810mm seat height, although slightly tall for shorter riders, is made manageable by the bike’s narrow waist. The handlebars are wide enough to offer leverage in traffic and tight corners, while the mid-set footpegs keep things comfortable on longer journeys.
Riding through busy city streets, the bike shines with its low-speed maneuverability. The light clutch and responsive engine make filtering through traffic easy and stress-free. But it’s outside the city where the XSR 155 truly comes alive. The chassis and engine synergy let you hold high corner speeds with confidence. It’s the kind of ride that makes you want to take the long way home just to hit your favorite stretch of road again.
The motorcycle’s exhaust note, while not overly loud, delivers a raspy growl that matches its spirited performance. Above the VVA threshold, the engine note becomes urgent and engaging, encouraging a more spirited ride.
Despite its modest size and displacement, the Yamaha XSR 155 feels like a complete motorcycle. It never comes across as a “starter bike” or a stepping stone. Instead, it presents itself as a capable, character-rich machine that can grow with you.
Yamaha XSR 155: Striking a Unique Market Balance
In terms of market position, the Yamaha XSR 155 occupies an interesting sweet spot. It appeals to younger riders drawn to the neo-retro trend and older enthusiasts seeking a lighter, simpler ride that doesn’t sacrifice engineering excellence.
Competitors vary in their approach. Honda’s CB150R leans more toward aggressive streetfighter styling, while Royal Enfield’s offerings like the Hunter 350 offer pure retro visuals with more traditional mechanics. Against these, the Yamaha XSR 155 proves to be the perfect blend—modern performance with nostalgic flair.
The only drawback? Availability. While it’s widely sold in Southeast Asia and select markets, the Yamaha XSR 155 has limited presence in regions like Europe or North America. However, in areas where it is available, it remains a top-tier option for those wanting more than just a retro facade.
Final Verdict: Yamaha XSR 155—Past Meets Present, Perfectly Balanced
The Yamaha XSR 155 isn’t trying to be everything to everyone—but it might just succeed anyway. It combines the charm of the past with the performance of today in a way that feels authentic, not manufactured. It’s one of the rare small-displacement motorcycles that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
For daily commuters, it offers reliability, economy, and comfort. For weekend warriors, it brings sharp handling and an engaging engine. And for those who simply want to feel something when they ride, the Yamaha XSR 155 delivers that intangible connection between man and machine.
In a segment crowded with imitators and style-first offerings, the Yamaha XSR 155 sets a new benchmark. It proves that small bikes can still carry big personalities—and that the soul of motorcycling is alive and well in every detail of this beautifully crafted machine.