Have you ever wanted a motorcycle that turns heads but doesn’t empty your wallet? The new 2025 Yamaha XSR 155 might be exactly what you’re looking for. After testing it for a week, I can tell you this bike delivers something special that many riders will love.
Looks That Make You Stop and Stare
When I first saw the XSR 155 parked on my street, I couldn’t help but smile. This bike doesn’t look like everything else on the road. With its round LED headlight and classic-shaped fuel tank, it reminds me of those cool motorcycles from the 1970s that my uncle used to ride.
The best part? You can make it your own. Yamaha designed those aluminum side panels on the tank to be removable, so you can customize your bike without much hassle. I’ve already seen riders adding their own touch with different colors and patterns.
Power That Surprises
Don’t let the vintage look fool you – this bike is all modern under that retro skin. When you twist the throttle, the 155cc engine responds with enthusiasm that puts a grin on your face. It’s the same engine from Yamaha’s sportier models, but tuned specifically for this bike’s character.
With nearly 19.3 horsepower, it might not sound impressive on paper. But weighing just 134kg (that’s really light!), this motorcycle feels peppy and fun. During my morning commute through heavy traffic, the bike easily zipped between cars. And when I took it on open roads over the weekend, cruising at 100 km/h felt smooth and comfortable.
I especially loved how the engine pulls strongly from low speeds. You don’t need to constantly shift gears in city traffic – second gear handles everything from crawling speeds to quick bursts between lights.
Rides Like a Dream
You know how some bikes look great but ride terribly? Not this one. Yamaha got the balance just right. The suspension soaks up bumps while still letting you feel connected to the road.
After riding for three hours straight on a weekend trip, my back wasn’t complaining – something I can’t say about many sporty bikes. The seat sits at a height most riders can manage (810mm), and the handlebar position keeps your wrists happy on longer journeys.
The brakes deserve a mention too. They’re not race-spec, but they stop you confidently without being grabby. And yes, you get dual-channel ABS as standard – a feature I was thankful for when a car suddenly pulled out in front of me last Tuesday.
Modern Conveniences in a Classic Package
While the XSR 155 embraces its vintage inspiration, Yamaha didn’t skimp on modern features. The round display might look classic, but it’s actually a digital LCD screen showing everything you need to know.
All lighting is LED, which means better visibility at night and a longer lifespan. During my late evening ride last weekend, the headlight cut through darkness impressively well.
What you won’t find are riding modes or electronic throttle controls. Personally, I love this approach – the direct connection between my right hand and the engine makes the riding experience more authentic and engaging.
Living With It Every Day
After a full week using this bike for everything from grocery runs to weekend escapes, I’ve found it’s surprisingly practical. It sips fuel gently – I averaged around 42 km per liter in mixed riding. That means fewer stops at the petrol station and more money in your pocket.
The only real downside? Storage space is basically non-existent. You’ll need a backpack or add-on saddlebags if you want to carry anything more than what fits in your pockets.
Is It Worth Your Money?
Expected to cost between ₹1.4-1.7 lakhs, the XSR 155 isn’t the cheapest option in its class. But what you’re paying for is character and quality that’s hard to find elsewhere.
If you want a motorcycle that combines head-turning style with everyday usability, the Yamaha XSR 155 deserves your attention. It’s not just another motorcycle – it’s a statement about who you are as a rider.