Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle (Mid-size)
Target Audience:
Cruiser enthusiasts, touring riders, riders seeking a comfortable and reliable V-twin motorcycle for commuting and long-distance travel.
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Kawasaki Vulcan series, Indian Scout, Harley-Davidson Sportster series.
Vehicle Highlights:
Comfortable riding position, accessible seat height, smooth V-twin engine, touring amenities (windshield, saddlebags), belt drive for low maintenance.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and undertake repairs, saving time and money while ensuring optimal performance and longevity of their Yamaha V-Star 950 Tourer.
Engine Mechanical:
Top end, bottom end, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (FI), throttle body, fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, EVAP system.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition control module, wiring.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, catalytic converter (if applicable).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gear shifting mechanism, final drive (belt drive system).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, wiring diagrams.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, pads, rotors, bleeding procedures.
Suspension System:
Front fork (telescopic), rear shock absorber, spring preload adjustment.
Steering System:
Handlebar, steering stem, steering bearings.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panels, fairings, fenders, seat, luggage components (touring package specific).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment (if applicable for drive system), spark plug inspection/replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of common starting issues, engine performance problems, electrical faults, braking system concerns.
Major Repairs:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission servicing, fork seal replacement, brake caliper overhaul.
Adjustments:
Clutch cable adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, suspension adjustments.
Inspections:
Pre-ride checks, annual inspections, wear and tear assessments.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics. Includes torque specifications, tolerances, and detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams.
Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 83.0 mm
Fueling:
Fuel Injection (YCC-I - Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake)
Ignition:
TCI (Transistor Controlled Ignition)
Horsepower Est:
~50 hp @ 5,500 rpm (claimed)
Torque Est:
~58.8 ft-lb @ 3,000 rpm (claimed)
Throttle Body:
40mm Mikuni (EFI)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
4.8 gallons (18.2 L)
Crash Test Data:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings typically differ from automotive; focus is on rider safety systems).
Braking System:
Front and Rear hydraulic disc brakes. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) may be optional on some models/markets, refer to specific vehicle VIN.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, incandescent turn signals for visibility.
Chassis Design:
Steel frame provides robust support. Low seat height enhances rider control.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog speedometer, multi-function LCD display (odometer, trip meter, clock, fuel gauge), indicator lights.
ABS:
Optional on some configurations for the 2016 model year.
Usb Charging:
Not standard, but aftermarket solutions are common.
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) managing fuel injection, ignition timing, and other engine parameters, utilizing Yamaha's YCC-I technology for optimized performance across the RPM range.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 4,000 miles (6,400 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Change:
At every oil change.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 8,000 miles (12,800 km).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 4,000 miles (6,400 km) or annually. Replacement as needed.
Belt Drive Inspection:
Every 4,000 miles (6,400 km) for tension and condition.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years or 16,000 miles (25,600 km), or as per manual recommendation.
Engine Oil:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent) SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified. Capacity: 3.1 US qt (2.9 L) without filter change, 3.3 US qt (3.1 L) with filter change.
Coolant:
Yamaha Yamalube Coolant (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and deionized water) or equivalent.
Common Wear Items:
Belt drive wear, clutch engagement issues (if improperly adjusted), front fork seal leaks under heavy use, brake pad wear.
Electrical Considerations:
While generally reliable, ensuring battery health and proper connections is key. Check regulator/rectifier function as a preventative measure on older bikes.
Yamaha Motorcycles:
Yamaha Motor Corporation boasts a rich history of innovation and performance in motorcycling, dating back to the 1950s. Known for its engineering prowess and racing heritage.
V Star Lineage:
The V-Star line is Yamaha's cruiser offering, known for its accessible styling and V-twin engines. The 950 model replaced earlier 650cc and 1100cc variants, bridging the gap with a modern, fuel-injected, and belt-driven platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Typically assembled in Japan, with components sourced globally.
V Star 950 Availability:
Introduced in 2009, with the Tourer variant becoming a popular option. The 2016 model represents a mature and refined version of the platform.
