Positioning:
The Yamaha Road Star series (XV17) occupied a significant segment of the American V-twin cruiser market, known for its classic styling, torquey engine, and comfortable ride, competing directly with models from Harley-Davidson and Honda.
Competitors:
Harley-Davidson Softail models (e.g., Heritage Softail, Fat Boy), Honda VTX1800 series, Kawasaki Vulcan 2000, Suzuki Boulevard M95/M109R.
Engine Design:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, 4-valve, SOHC, V-twin engine celebrated for its character and ample torque.
Styling:
Classic cruiser aesthetics with generous chrome accents, teardrop fuel tank, and comfortable ergonomics, particularly in the Silverado touring variant.
Variants:
Offered in standard, Midnight (blacked-out styling), and Silverado (touring-oriented with fairing, saddlebags, and windscreen) trims, catering to diverse rider preferences.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and tuning for the V-twin engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (if applicable to specific variants/years), fuel injection systems, fuel pump, fuel lines, and tank maintenance.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive (belt or shaft drive, depending on variant), and related components.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, starting system, charging system, battery, instrumentation, and ECU (if applicable).
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake systems (front and rear), caliper maintenance, master cylinder service, brake fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic, potentially air-assisted), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, and linkage maintenance.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, wheel bearing replacement, and general chassis integrity checks.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender removal/installation, fairing (if equipped), seat, fuel tank, and other body component servicing.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine specifics, but may include oil cooler maintenance if applicable.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, and other routine checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based problem solving for common and uncommon issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle.
Diagnostic Charts:
Systematic approaches to identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical faults.
Depth:
Full shop manual level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics, covering everything from basic service to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 4-valve
Displacement:
1670 cc (102 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 113.0 mm (approximate, confirm specific workshop manual data)
Compression Ratio:
7.6:1 (typical for this era)
Horsepower:
Approximately 80-85 HP (at crank), official figures may vary.
Torque:
Approximately 100-110 lb-ft (at crank), official figures may vary.
Fuel Delivery:
Early models might have carburetors; later or specific variants could feature electronic fuel injection (EFI). Manual will detail the applicable system.
Oil Type:
Yamaha recommends Yamalube 4 (or equivalent SAE 20W-40 or 10W-40 API SG or higher) motorcycle oil. Check manual for exact specification.
Ignition System:
Transistor Controlled Ignition (TCI) with electronic advance.
Valvetrain:
Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC), 4 valves per cylinder.
Pistons:
Cast aluminum pistons (typical).
Length:
Refer to specific model variant in manual (typically around 98-100 inches).
Width:
Refer to specific model variant in manual (typically around 37-39 inches).
Height:
Refer to specific model variant in manual (typically around 47-53 inches, higher for Silverado).
Wheelbase:
Refer to specific model variant in manual (typically around 66.5 inches).
Dry Weight:
Approximately 650-700 lbs (17A/17AM), higher for Silverado.
Wet Weight:
Approximately 690-740 lbs (17A/17AM), higher for Silverado.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
4.0 US gallons (15 liters) typical.
Tire Size:
130/90-16 M/C 67H (typical, confirm with manual).
Tire Size:
150/80-16 M/C 71H (typical, confirm with manual).
Safety Ratings:
As a motorcycle, specific crash test ratings are not applicable in the same way as cars. Safety is primarily determined by design, braking performance, and rider awareness. Manual covers braking system safety checks.
Braking System:
Dual hydraulic disc front brakes, single hydraulic disc rear brake. ABS was not standard on most models in this period but may have been an option on some later variants; check manual for specifics.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, front and rear turn signals.
Mirrors:
Large, adjustable rearview mirrors for increased visibility.
Infotainment System:
Basic by modern standards. Features include analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and indicator lights. Silverado variants might have a stereo system and cruise control. Manual covers these systems.
Driver Assistance:
Limited to mechanical systems. ABS was not standard on most models within this year range.
Connectivity:
No onboard smartphone connectivity or advanced electronic rider aids common on newer motorcycles.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for precise recommendations.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Check every 3,000 miles, clean or replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Replace every 6,000 - 10,000 miles (depending on plug type), check manual for exact interval and plug part numbers (e.g., NGK CR9E or similar).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommend flushing and replacement every 2 years or as per manual, using DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Belt Tension Check:
Check belt tension and condition at recommended intervals (e.g., every 6,000 miles).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W-40 or SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher motorcycle oil.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (ISO Class 4 / FMVSS 116 DOT 4)
Coolant Type:
Air-cooled engine; no coolant required for the engine itself. Cooling for oil cooler (if equipped) may have specific requirements.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, belt drive wear (tension and alignment are critical), suspension seals (forks and shocks), and occasional electrical connector corrosion.
Potential Problems:
While generally robust, some owners report issues with regulator/rectifier units or stator failures on high-mileage bikes. Carburetor synchronization and tuning can be crucial for optimal performance. Check manual for specific diagnostic procedures for these components.
Heritage:
Yamaha Motor Corporation is a globally recognized manufacturer with a long history in motorcycles, known for innovation and quality across various segments, from sportbikes to cruisers.
Road Star Lineage:
The Road Star line was introduced in 1999 as Yamaha's flagship V-twin cruiser, designed to compete with established American brands. The XV17 platform evolved with different displacements and trim levels over its production run.
Manufacturing Location:
Likely manufactured in Japan, with assembly potentially occurring in other Yamaha facilities.
Production Period:
The XV17 platform was produced from 1999 through 2010, with the specified 2004-2007 models representing a significant era for this motorcycle.
