2017 Yamaha SCR950 - FIRST LOOK REVIEW

V-twin-based scrambler joins Yamaha’s Sport Heritage line

Yamaha has realigned its streetbike categories and created what it calls its Sport Heritage line, consisting of the new-for-2016 XSR900, SR400, VMAX, and now this new 2017 SCR950. Take one part DT250 and the Bolt's 942cc twin, then jam it all into a scrambler chassis, and you get this cool-looking retro-styled machine.

The Yamaha SCR950 can do it all, road, urban, or off highway.Courtesy of Yamaha

The air-cooled, 60-degree twin features fuel injection and four valves per cylinder, then exhales through a 2-into-1 exhaust. Designed for low-end torque, the engine has been tuned to offer broad power whether you are cruising around town or exploring gravel roads off the beaten path. Power is sent to the rear wheel via a belt final drive.

The SCR950 isn’t just for posing, however, as Yamaha went to great lengths to ensure that it was capable of all that its scrambler image suggests. A double-cradle frame offers sporty geometry for responsive handling on road or off. A conventional 41mm fork with the stanchions protected by gaitors is used up front, while a pair of piggyback-style gas shocks are used in the rear. Brake hardware features a 298mm front wave-style disc with a twin-piston caliper, while a rear disc of the same diameter is also wave-style. Spoked aluminum rims in 19-in. front, and 17-in. rear are wrapped in chunky dual-sport style tires.

The SCR950 in Rapid Red.Courtesy of Yamaha

The riding position is all scrambler with an upright steel off-road style handlebar, long flat seat that sits over a vintage-enduro-style fender, while the side number plates conceal a hidden storage area. Mid-mount foot controls are in the same position as on the Bolt C-Spec.

The SCR950 will be available in two colors: Charcoal Silver and Rapid Red. The 2017 SCR950 will have a suggested retail price of $8,699 and will be available in Yamaha dealerships beginning in July.

Scrambler styling meets modern function.Courtesy of Yamaha
SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE TYPE 58-cubic-inch (942cc) air-cooled SOHC 4-stroke V-twin; 4 valves
BORE x STROKE 85.0 x 83.0mm
Compression Ratio 9.0:1
Fuel Delivery Fuel injection
Ignition TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition
Transmission 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch
Final Drive Belt
Suspension Front Telescopic fork, 4.7-in. travel
Suspension Rear Dual piggyback shocks, 2.8-in. travel
Brakes Front Wave-type disc, 298mm
Brakes Rear Wave-type disc, 298mm
Tires Front 100/90-19
Tires Rear 140/80R17
Seat Height 32.7 in.
Wheelbase 62.0 in.
Rake (Caster Angle) 28.4°
Trail 5.1 in.
Ground Clearance 5.5 in.
Fuel Capacity 3.2 gal.
Fuel Economy 51 mpg
Wet Weight 547 lb.
Warranty 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)
Colors Charcoal Silver; Rapid Red
Up for some gravel-road sliding?Courtesy of Yamaha
The SCR950 in Charcoal Silver.Courtesy of Yamaha
In Rapid Red.Courtesy of Yamaha
Wire-spoke wheels and a single wave-style brake, a nice mix of modern and retro.Courtesy of Yamaha
Forward gauge is classically styled but with LCD readouts.Courtesy of Yamaha
Piggyback gas shocks.Courtesy of Yamaha
The SCR950 gets belt final drive.Courtesy of Yamaha
LED taillights and turn indicators.Courtesy of Yamaha