The Yamaha XSR 155 is more than just a small-displacement motorcycle; it is a canvas waiting for an artist. Built on the concept of "Born to be Free," this modern classic combines the reliability of the MT-15’s engine with the timeless "Sport Heritage" aesthetic of its bigger siblings, the XSR 700 and 900.
However, the real joy of owning an XSR 155 isn't just riding it—it’s building it. Whether you are aiming for a rugged Scrambler look or a sleek Café Racer silhouette, here are the top tips to enhance your retro ride.
1. Clean Up the Tail
One of the first modifications most owners make is installing a Tail Tidy (Fender Eliminator). The stock rear mudguard is long and bulky due to factory regulations. Swapping it for a minimalist tail tidy exposes the rear tire and sharpens the bike's profile immediately.
Pro Tip: Look for a kit that integrates an LED strip for a futuristic yet retro vibe.
2. Swap the Mirrors
The stock "bunny ear" mirrors offer great visibility but lack style.
For Café Racers: Install Bar-End Mirrors. They lower the bike's visual profile and give it that aggressive, hunkered-down look.
For Scramblers: Opt for round, classic mirrors with shorter stems or clamp-on mirrors that sit below the handlebar.
3. Upgrade the Exhaust System
The XSR 155’s VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) engine is peppy, but the stock exhaust mutes its personality. A custom exhaust system not only sheds significant weight but also unlocks a throatier, deeper growl.
Style Choice: A megaphone muffler suits the Café Racer look, while a high-mounted pipe is essential for the Scrambler aesthetic. Always check your local noise regulations before installing.
4. Define the Seat
The stock seat is a decent "tuck-and-roll" style, but you can do better.
The Café Look: Go for a seat with a rear cowl (hornet tail) or a single-seater leather cushion with diamond stitching.
The Tracker Look: A flat, ribbed leather seat in tan or dark brown creates a beautiful contrast against a silver or black tank.
5. Tires Change Everything
Tires are the single most impactful visual change you can make.
Scrambler Build: Swap the stock rubber for semi-knobby dual-sport tires (like Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR or Shinko). This gives the bike a muscular, go-anywhere appearance.
Street Build: Stick to wider, vintage-pattern street tires that fill out the wheel arches without sacrificing grip.
6. Protection with Style
Accessories shouldn't just look good; they should protect your investment.
Headlight Grill: A metal grill over the round headlight screams "off-road ready."
Engine Guard/Crash Bar: Protects the Deltabox frame and engine case in the event of a drop.
Radiator Guard: Essential for preventing stone chips on the radiator fins, and it looks great in brushed aluminum.
7. Handlebar Ergonomics
Changing the handlebars alters both the look of the bike and how you ride it.
Clip-ons: The ultimate Café Racer mod. It forces you into a tuck position for aerodynamics and sporty handling.
Tracker Bars: Wider and slightly higher than stock, giving you better leverage for city traffic and light off-roading.
Conclusion: Build Your Legacy
The beauty of the Yamaha XSR 155 lies in its versatility. It is a modern machine with an old soul, compatible with hundreds of aftermarket parts. Start with the small changes—mirrors and decals—and work your way up to exhausts and tires.
