Yamaha join the scrambler set with the SCR950

With the trend for retro bikes showing no signs of abating, Yamaha has expanded its already wide range of ‘Sport Heritage’ models with a new scrambler style SCR950 for 2017.

Following in the tyre tracks of the XSR700 and XSR900, the SCR950 the latest model to come out of the Yamaha marketing department’s mythical ‘Faster Sons’ workshop and goes straight for the throat of Ducati’s own class leading Scrambler range.

Yamaha’s street scrambler is based largely on the XVS950 cruiser, using the same charming air-cooled, 942cc 60-degree, V-twin engine but fitting it out in the classic Sixties style that has made Ducati and Triumph’s off-road styled machines so popular in recent years.

Featuring wide braced handlebars, aluminium rims and spoked wheels - as well as off-road styled Bridgestone tyres and front fork gaiters - the new Yamaha SCR950 blends what the Iwata company describes as ‘vintage cool with contemporary design and technology’. Compared to the cruiser upon which it’s based, the SCR has a higher seat with a flat profile gives an elevated riding position with plenty of room for moving around - and there's also a new larger 17-inch rear wheel that contributes to a higher riding position and gives increased ground clearance for an enhanced handling feeling.

Featuring an all-black finish, the compact 60-degree, air-cooled, V-twin engine produces a pulsating band of power with strong torque, making the SCR950 a great all round performer that's fun to ride in a variety of situations.

The big V-twin dominates the look of the bike with its blacked-out cases and a cool flat track style two-into-one exhaust with upswept silencer.

Colours are red or black, with the bike going on sale in February 2017.