The Tuning Fork brand appears to be entertaining a new up-spec variant for its striking classic-styled triple.Even before I got a chance to experience Yamaha's CP3 magic for myself, I lusted after the brand's XSR900. The neo-retro styling alone nearly sold me on the bike when it came out.After some extended seat time aboard an MT-09 loaner, I came even closer to adding an XSR to my stable. The Tuning Fork's triple was as great as it was made out to be, but I wanted a little more from some of the components.AdvertisementAdvertisementHowever, it now sounds like Yamaha could soon be making the XSR900's call impossible for me (and many other riders) to ignore.Yamaha's XSR900 has tempted me on more than one occasion, and an SP variant might finally seal the deal. - Credit: YamahaMore Yamaha filing funThat's because, according to the findings of Australia Motorcycle News, Yamaha has filed 2027 VIN documentation with the NHTSA for an XSR900 "SP" model. Assuming it tracks with other patterns, I'd expect a formal announcement in the next few months.If you're not familiar with the designation, it amounts to a notable upgrade. As the SP appears on other bikes in the Yamaha range, such as the MT-09 and MT-10, it brings impactful tweaks to the visuals, hardware and electronics.The MT-09 SP brings a bold look and some exclusive goodies. - Credit: YamahaIn the case of the former (the XSR's closest approximation), Yamaha splashes the bike with a special livery inspired by the R1M and swaps out the standard KYB forks for a fully adjustable DLC-coated set along with an Öhlins shock at the rear. Moreover, the bike benefits from a set of upgraded Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers, AdvertisementAdvertisementInternally, Yamaha equips it with some exclusive Track modes and other features to facilitate a more refined ride. Along with Engine Brake Management and switchable rear ABS, the brand also fits its Smart Key System to enable a more convenient start-up.Those Brembo calipers are just part of the hardware package. - Credit: YamahaThough the SP doesn't bring added power or torque, I never found myself wanting for output with Yamaha's 890cc triple. It's plenty potent, producing 117 horsepower and 68.5 lb-ft of torque.A three-cylinder onslaught?Now, assuming you've been staying updated on what's been happening in the world of two wheels, you may remember that Yamaha recently filed VIN documentation for an XSR900 GP, too. So what gives?SP owners also benefit from DLC-coated, fully adjustable KYB forks. - Credit: YamahaThough the naming conventions are separated by a single letter, they promise to be very different bikes. As it currently rolls on the street over in Europe, the XSR900 GP adopts a more aggressive riding position with a half fairing and lower clip-ons.AdvertisementAdvertisementOtherwise, it doesn't bring the same kind of chassis upgrades as the SP. It's a standard XSR900 underneath, making it a treatment that trends towards show more than it does "go."In any case, seeing as Yamaha also cryptically teased that it will be "redefining the standard" at EICMA 2026 in a few months, something big is definitely on the horizon. Whether the eventual announcement brings a long-suspected Ténéré 900, a tiny XSR 155, a GP and/or the SP, only time will tell.Yamaha has filed a variety of exciting new VIN approval documents for 2027. Could a barrage of bikes be inbound? - Credit: YamahaAvailability and pricingYamaha hasn't yet confirmed the existence of an XSR900 SP. However, based on the roughly $1,800 difference between the MT-09 and MT-09 SP, I'd expect it to add a similar premium above the $10,599 price of its standard sibling when/if it finally hits the market.About the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.AdvertisementAdvertisementWant to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.