Market Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle, known for its classic styling and V-twin engine
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a reliable, stylish, and accessible cruiser for commuting and touring
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Kawasaki Vulcan series, Suzuki Boulevard S40/S50
Styling:
Classic cruiser aesthetics, spoked wheels, teardrop fuel tank, pullback handlebars
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, V-twin, SOHC, 4-stroke
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive, contributing to low maintenance
Reliability:
Yamaha's reputation for robust engineering and build quality
Engine:
Complete engine service, disassembly, reassembly, tuning, diagnostics
Fuel System:
Carburetor service, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance
Ignition System:
CDI, spark plugs, ignition timing, coil service
Transmission:
Clutch service, gearshift linkage, transmission disassembly and reassembly, lubrication
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive maintenance, U-joints, rear differential
Suspension:
Front fork service, rear shock absorber replacement, adjustments
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake systems (front and rear), caliper service, master cylinder, brake fluid replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery service, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starter system, fuses
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine specifics, heat dissipation measures
Chassis:
Frame, steering head bearings, wheels, tires, spokes
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank removal and installation, seat, handlebars, controls
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain/belt adjustment (if applicable), lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problem identification and solutions
Repair:
Component replacement, component overhaul, adjustment procedures
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for major components
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced troubleshooting guides and symptom-based diagnostics
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
76.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Valve Configuration:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 2 exhaust)
Horsepower:
Approx. 45-50 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)
Torque:
Approx. 35-40 lb-ft (at crankshaft, estimated)
Fuel Delivery:
Mikuni BSR34 carburetors (dual)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
15.1 L (3.99 US gal)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher
Safety Certification:
DOT, EPA, CARB compliant (as applicable for motorcycle operation)
Braking System:
Front: Hydraulic disc; Rear: Drum brake (standard on Custom model)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, standard turn signals
Infotainment System:
N/A (Basic motorcycle instrumentation: speedometer, odometer, trip meter, tachometer, indicator lights)
Rider Aids:
N/A (No electronic rider aids like ABS or traction control on this model)
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No Bluetooth or smartphone integration)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Oil Filter Change:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km)
Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement:
Inspect every 3,000 miles (4,800 km); clean or replace as needed
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years or 24,000 miles (38,600 km)
Shaft Drive Fluid Change:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or annually
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
2.0 L (2.1 US qt) without filter change; 2.2 L (2.3 US qt) with filter change
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Shaft Drive Fluid Type:
Yamaha Genuine Gear Oil (or equivalent SAE 80W-90 API GL-4)
Common Wear Items:
Rear brake pads/shoes, clutch plates (with high mileage), steering head bearings, swingarm bearings
Carburetor Tuning:
Can require periodic adjustment for optimal performance, especially with aftermarket exhausts or air filters
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
Crucial to maintain shaft drive lubrication to prevent premature wear.
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Corporation, Japan
Brand Reputation:
Long-standing reputation for quality, innovation, and performance in motorcycles and other powersports vehicles
V Star Lineup Introduction:
The V Star line, including the 650cc models, was introduced in the mid-1990s to offer a more accessible cruiser option.
2005 Model Updates:
The 2005 model typically saw minor aesthetic changes, color options, and potential refinements in emissions or performance tuning, maintaining the core design.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan, with potential assembly in other Yamaha facilities.
