Yamaha believes you can and has done exactly that – taking its Bolt and turning it into the 2017 SCR950.
Just revealed in America as part of the firm’s US-market 2017 range, there’s currently no confirmation whether the SCR950 will also be sold elsewhere. However, the firm trademarked the name in Europe last year as well as America, suggesting it’s destined to be a worldwide model.
Technically it’s virtually unchanged, sharing the Bolt’s 38.3kW V-twin and the same tubular steel frame. The addition of a new subframe raises the seat by around 145mm and provides a mounting point for a new rear mudguard, giving significant clearance between the fender and rear tyre.
That rear tyre is increased from 16 inches on the Bolt to 17 inches on the SCR, while the front remains a 19-incher. Wire wheels replace the cruiser’s alloys, and an oval number board on the side adds a scrambler or flat-tracker look to the bike.
Of course, the changes aren’t likely to add any notable off-road ability – the suspension is unaltered from the Bolt and it weighs a hefty 248kg wet – but they do a surprisingly good job of creating a retro scrambler style.
In terms of price, the bike is likely to marginally undercut the 803cc Ducati Scrambler. We’ll find out later this year if the bike will also reach our shores in 2017.
