Yamaha has finally revealed its retro modern street bike, the Yamaha XSR 155 and the wait seems to have been worth it. Combining classic retro design and the latest in writing technology, this new ink blaster is sure to please the biker who longs for both nostalgia and performance.
At first glance, the 2025 XSR 155 gets mild visual changes, equipment upgrades and an attractive looking price sticker that despite the comprehensive changes, is relatively competitive in the segment.
The XSR lineup from Yamaha also has had a reputation of incorporating retro design language in its bikes which is something that the 155cc version also continues to maintain while carrying modern-day riding technology.
Aimed at youthful consumers looking to make a statement on the street, this neo retro motorcycle brings together aesthetics and performance in a compact form factor.
Retro Design Meets Modern Aggression
In terms of design, the 2025 Yamaha XSR 155 continues featuring the iconic neo-retro design language inspired by classic motorcycles of the yesteryears with a futuristic undertone. The signature retro look is made obvious by the circular LED headlamp with DRLs, teardrop fuel tank and old-school single-piece seat. And this time around it is the colour palette Yamaha has offered new dual-tone options and matte finishes which boost the motorcycle’s vintage appeal.
The tail section is updated as well with a sharper looking LED tail lamp and shorter rear fender, and the motorcycle certainly looks neater from the back, now that it has lost the tall rear mudguard. It has an upright stance and minimalistic bodywork which makes it look like a right out of the showroom custom built motorcycle XSR 155 2025. The tank grips and badging have been equally improved to provide an upmarket and rougher personality.
Digital Console and Tech Upgrades
On the technological front, the 2025 XSR 155 features a new fully digital LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth enabled display. Riders can connect their smartphones to receive calls and SMS (text messages) when cruising down the road, as well as monitor their riding statistics, access Yamaha’s Y-Connect app for remote diagnostics and more.
Quality is also up in the switchgear which feels better to use, and a brighter, more sun-readable instrument pod. It’s these little updates that really increase the utility of the bike, for commuting and for weekend blasts for city and country riders.
Engine Performance and Riding Experience
Hidden inside the old-school skin still lies the battle-proven 155cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine recipe that serves as the heart for many of the Yamaha sportbikes. This motor churns out close to 18.6 PS at 10,000 RPM and 14.1 Nm at 8,500 RPM with a slick 6-speed manual transmission.
With the addition of VVA (Variable Valve Actuation), its mid-high ranges are also remarkably strong, thus allowing the XSR 155 to tackle both traffic-strewn streets and uninhabited highways with equal ease. Whether you’re weaving through city streets or clipping along mountain passes, the engine always offers up smooth and responsive power.
The bike has a Delta box frame, along with telescopic front forks and mono-shock rear suspension, which makes for good handling dynamics. It’s nimble in traffic, but stable on the open road, and all the while it has that sport bike confidence in a retro-styled package.
Comfort, Ride Quality and Ergonomics
Unlike the sporty R15, the XSR 155 gets relaxed ergonomics. The extra wide handlebars, the centrally positioned footpegs and the upright riding stance mean that long distance touring and daily commuting are a lot more comfortable. The seat cushioning has also been enhanced to a little extent in the 2025 model to make it more comfortable for the rider as well as pillion.
Ground clearance is also adequate for our roads and the suspension set-up allows you to tackle undulations and speed breakers without breaking a sweat. The bike just weighs 134 kg which makes it light weight, and it is easy to handle for beginners as well.
Safety and Braking Setup
The XSR 155 gets disc brakes at front as well as rear, along with single-channel ABS, guaranteeing decent stopping power. Yes it would be nice to have dual channel ABS but for what the bike is, the braking is more than adequate.
The grippy radial tyres mounted over the 17-inch alloy wheels ensure good grip and stability on both tarmac and off the road. Well rain or gravel or dry tarmac, the XSR 155 tracks its line tenaciously.
Pricing and Value for Money
Here’s the most interesting part the price. The surprises keep coming, for despite the advances the added value package here is shockingly good value. The 2025 XSR 155, depending on the colour and the variant, is priced at around ₹1.60 lakh to ₹1.70 lakh (ex-showroom). This pits it against other neo-retros, such as the Honda CB200X and the Keeway SR125.
Offering the best of both worlds with iconic design, proven Yamaha engineering, state-of-the-art features, and great fuel efficiency (Around 40–45 kmpl on real world usage), the XSR 155 should tick all the right boxes for both fashion conscious ride enthusiasts as well as performance enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The Yamaha XSR 155 2025 isn’t just a motorcycle it is a philosophy. It combines old-school muscle with modern engineering and very few, if any, other bikes in this segment come close. Rugged looks, attention to quality, dependability, and value combine to make it come out the other end an emotional purchase that’s easy to justify on paper.
The XSR 155 appeals to young riders who want a bike with character, and older riders who love the classic feel of retro lines and modern performance. It’s an ideal foray into the land of neo-retro motorcycles one with a lasting impression, that’s for certain.