Yamaha Introduces New XSR700 Sport Heritage Motorcycle

Yamaha’s presentation at AIMExpo went old school as it introduced a pair of new models for its Sport Heritage line – the 40th anniversary SR400 and the new generation XSR700 – which were introduced under the “Faster Sons” Philosophy. Yamaha also introduced the XSR900, the “big brother” to the SR400 and XSR700, along with two new additions to its Yard Built initiative, with a custom XSR700 and XSR900, respectively.

The spirit of the “Faster Sons” philosophy is embodied by Yamaha’s Sport Heritage motorcycles, where styles of the past combine with the technology of today to create real character that does not compromise on riding ability.

The new XSR700 is the latest model to take its place in the Sport Heritage lineup as a casual, retro-styled street bike. Paying tribute to the iconic Yamaha XS650, a simplistic design that still inspires today, the XSR700 delivers a mix of “timeless style, modern technology and emotional riding experience,” according to the company.

The XSR700 is derived from several key features, including a stitched two-level seat and an old-school style round headlight and fastening stay. Exposed and painted aluminum components, retro-influenced bodywork and simple front and rear fenders also remain true to vintage character. Customization potential abounds as well, thanks in part to removable aluminum tank panels and a removable rear sub-frame.

The XSR700 delivers modern performance courtesy of the compact 2-cylinder engine with a “Crossplane Concept” 270 degree crankshaft that provides unique power characteristics with outstanding torque and a direct throttle-to-rear-wheel connection feeling. Add to that a six-speed transmission, modern suspension components, lightweight aluminum wheels and ABS brakes, and the XSR’s abilities become evident.

Yamaha has positioned the bike at new and experienced riders who they think will appreciate the modern LCD instrumentation, upright seating position, 410-pound wet weight and fuel economy whether in an urban setting or on twisty roads.

The 2018 XSR700 will be available in both Matte Gray/Aluminum and Raspberry Metallic, and will arrive at Yamaha dealerships beginning in October with a MSRP of $8,499.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame recently named Marilyn Stemp and Steve Piehl to its board of directors.

Stemp is a pioneering figure in the motorcycle industry, founding IronWorks Magazine with her late husband, Dennis, and becoming the first female editor of a nationally circulated, mainstream motorcycle magazine. She also revived their trade magazine, Iron Trader News; edits the monthly Kiwi Indian News; contributes to several powersports media outlets; and is the founding editor of Sturgis Rider Daily. Stemp is a noted editor and writer of several motorcycle-focused books. Her consistent support for charitable efforts in the industry include the annual Biker Belles Celebration, Las Vegas BikeFest and as campaign chair for the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum’s development plan in 2014. She co-founded the Flying Piston charity events taking place in Daytona and Sturgis each year and is a National Ambassador for All Kids Bike. Stemp was inducted into both the Las Vegas Motorcycle Hall of Fame and the Sturgis Museum's Hall of Fame in 2018, and in 2022 she was recognized as one of the Top 100 Women in Powersports by DealerNews.