Carbon-clad custom: Bolt-on kit from Bottpower transforms Yamaha triples

Performance bike builder, Bottpower have released a new carbon kit for Yamaha’s current range of 847cc CP3 triples, transforming the XSR900, MT-09, or Tracer 900 into a minimalist, flat track-inspired street fighter.

Called the XR9 Carbona, the transformative package requires no alterations to the bike’s frame and mates the existing running gear to a fresh fuel tank cover with carbon fibre air intakes, and a carbon seat and tail unit, featuring side-mounted number boards, an alcantara seat, plus the rear lights and indicators.

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Up front, you also get a flat number board, flanked by the aforementioned carbon air scoops. Sitting beneath them are a set of hidden headlights reminiscent of the current R1 superbike, which work in tandem with the integrated LEDs within the board itself for maximum visibility, without compromising the look.

Also included are radiator covers with MotoGP-inspired winglets, a rear wheel-mounted numberplate holder and sprocket cover. A belly pan will be available at a later date, but is not yet ready for production.

“The XR9 Carbona is inspired by our Pikes Peak victories,” Bottpower manager, David Sánchez, said. “Our goal was to create a cool and fast bike with a modern and aggressive look – and we also wanted to be able to develop a ‘plug and play’ kit that would enable any Yamaha XSR900 or CP3 platform owner to transform their bike into the XR9.”

This was added to by senior designer, Hugo van Waaijen, who said: “Using our extensive experience with composites and 3D printing, we introduced Yamaha R-series elements like the hidden round headlights to create the feeling of a race bike with a numberplate.”

But just how much does it cost to build your own XR9? I hear you ask… Well, it’s not cheap. And with every options box ticked when starting with an MT-09 (which adds an additional €450 to your fee), you are looking at a total bill of €7610 (around £6940) without taking into account the initial outlay for the motorcycle itself. 

Breaking that cost down slightly and starting with an XSR900, the base kit becomes €4975 (roughly £4530), with extras like a numberplate bracket adding €390 to the bill. Whilst that may sound like a lot of money, it is unsurprising, given the large quantity of carbon and quality of finish. Those wanting their own should visit bottpower.com

Bottpower XR9 Carbona kit explored:

• Racing inspiration: Elements of the XR9 such as the headlights mimic Yamaha’s sportsbike range
• Have it your way: Would-be owners can configure the kit to their own preferences. Akrapovic exhaust and lightweight wheels shown in images are not included.
• Choice of triples: The kit is available for existing CP3 three-cylinder Yamahas, not the new MT-09 range announced for 2021
• Costly colours: Whilst the graphics shown are a €1200 option, the XR9 is also available in a lacquered, or ‘raw’ finish.
• Engine party piece: The minimalist design helps draw attention to the three-cylinder engine, which packs 113.4bhp in the MT-09.