Summary
- The world of modern classic motorcycles is a vibrant one, with manufacturers offering a wide range of options to riders who crave the style and feel of a vintage machine but with the performance and reliability of modern technology.
- The XSR900 uses a steel frame with a cast aluminum swingarm, while the Street Triple features a tubular steel frame with an aluminum subframe.
- The Street Triple, on the other hand, is more powerful and technologically advanced, with a more modern design and a more aggressive riding position.
The world of modern classic motorcycles is a vibrant one, with manufacturers offering a wide range of options to riders who crave the style and feel of a vintage machine but with the performance and reliability of modern technology. Two of the most popular models in this segment are the Yamaha XSR900 and the Triumph Street Triple. Both bikes offer a unique blend of retro aesthetics and contemporary engineering, but which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Yamaha XSR900 and the Triumph Street Triple, examining their performance, handling, features, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Performance
Engine:
The XSR900 is powered by a 847cc, inline-triple engine that produces 115 horsepower and 87.5 lb-ft of torque. The Street Triple, on the other hand, comes with a 765cc, inline-triple engine that generates 118 horsepower and 59 lb-ft of torque. While the XSR900 has a larger displacement, the Street Triple’s engine is more powerful and lighter.
Acceleration and Top Speed:
The Street Triple has a slight edge in acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 3.2 seconds compared to the XSR900’s 3.4 seconds. However, the XSR900 has a higher top speed of 142 mph, while the Street Triple is limited to 135 mph.
Fuel Economy:
Both bikes have similar fuel economy figures, with the XSR900 returning an average of 45 mpg and the Street Triple achieving around 47 mpg.
Handling
Chassis:
The XSR900 uses a steel frame with a cast aluminum swingarm, while the Street Triple features a tubular steel frame with an aluminum subframe. Both bikes have a similar wheelbase and seat height, but the Street Triple is slightly lighter, weighing in at 417 pounds compared to the XSR900’s 427 pounds.
Suspension:
The XSR900 comes with adjustable KYB suspension front and rear, while the Street Triple is equipped with Showa suspension that is also fully adjustable. Both bikes offer a comfortable ride, but the Street Triple’s suspension is more refined and provides better feedback.
Brakes:
The XSR900 has dual 298mm front brake discs with four-piston calipers and a single 245mm rear disc with a two-piston caliper. The Street Triple has slightly larger 310mm front brake discs with four-piston calipers and a 220mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper. Both bikes offer excellent braking performance, but the Street Triple’s brakes are more powerful and have a better feel.
Features
Instrumentation:
The XSR900 has a simple, analog speedometer and tachometer with a small digital display that shows the gear position, fuel level, and odometer. The Street Triple has a more modern, fully digital instrument cluster that provides a wide range of information, including a gear indicator, fuel gauge, and trip computer.
Lighting:
Both bikes have LED headlights and taillights. However, the XSR900’s headlight is more traditional in design, while the Street Triple‘s headlight is more modern and aggressive.
Electronics:
The XSR900 comes with basic electronics, including ABS and traction control. The Street Triple has a more comprehensive electronics package that includes ABS, traction control, wheelie control, and ride modes.
Value
Pricing:
The Yamaha XSR900 has a starting price of $9,499, while the Triumph Street Triple starts at $10,495.
Resale Value:
Both the XSR900 and the Street Triple have good resale values. However, the Street Triple tends to hold its value slightly better than the XSR900.
In a nutshell: The Modern Classic Clash
The Yamaha XSR900 and the Triumph Street Triple are both excellent modern classic motorcycles that offer a unique blend of style, performance, and value. The XSR900 is a more affordable and approachable option, with a classic design and a user-friendly riding experience. The Street Triple, on the other hand, is more powerful and technologically advanced, with a more modern design and a more aggressive riding position. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and riding style. If you’re looking for a stylish and affordable modern classic that’s easy to ride, the XSR900 is a great option. If you’re looking for a more powerful and technologically advanced bike with a more aggressive riding position, the Street Triple is the better choice.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which bike is faster, the XSR900 or the Street Triple?
A: The Street Triple is faster, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds compared to the XSR900’s 3.4 seconds.
Q: Which bike has better handling, the XSR900 or the Street Triple?
A: The Street Triple has better handling, with a more refined suspension and more powerful brakes.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable, the XSR900 or the Street Triple?
A: Both bikes offer a comfortable ride, but the XSR900 has a more upright riding position, which may be more comfortable for some riders.
Q: Which bike has more features, the XSR900 or the Street Triple?
A: The Street Triple has more features, including a fully digital instrument cluster, wheelie control, and ride modes.
Q: Which bike is better value for money, the XSR900 or the Street Triple?
A: The XSR900 is a better value for money, with a lower starting price and similar performance to the Street Triple.
