Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking classic styling, comfortable ergonomics, and reliable V-twin performance for cruising and touring.
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Kawasaki Vulcan series, Suzuki Boulevard series, Harley-Davidson Sportster series (though often at a higher price point).
Design Philosophy:
Emphasizes classic cruiser aesthetics with modern engineering and reliability. The V-Star series is known for its accessible styling and user-friendly nature.
Variant Distinction:
Classic (XVS650A) features a more traditional, stripped-down cruiser look. Silverado (XVS650AT) typically includes additional touring-oriented features like a windshield, saddlebags, and passenger backrest.
Engine:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the 649cc V-twin engine, including valve adjustments, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and connecting rod service, oil pump operation, and cooling system (air-cooled).
Fuel System:
Carburetor service, synchronization, adjustment, fuel tank, fuel pump operation, and fuel lines.
Transmission:
5-speed constant mesh transmission service, clutch assembly, internal gear inspection, lubrication, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive system maintenance, universal joint inspection, final drive gearcase lubrication, and seals.
Electrical System:
Ignition system diagnosis and repair (CDI, spark plugs, coils), lighting circuits (headlight, taillight, signals), charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), battery maintenance, starter motor operation, and wiring diagrams.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake service (caliper overhaul, pad replacement, fluid bleeding), master cylinder inspection, and brake line maintenance.
Suspension:
Front telescopic fork service (oil change, seal replacement, spring inspection), rear monoshock absorber adjustment and inspection, linkage maintenance.
Steering:
Steering head bearing inspection, adjustment, and replacement.
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, frame integrity checks, body panel removal and installation, seat maintenance, and fender service.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire inspection, pressure recommendations, and spoke wheel maintenance (if applicable).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, chain/belt adjustment (if applicable, though V-Star uses shaft drive), brake fluid flush, and general inspection checklist.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common electrical and mechanical issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for all major mechanical and electrical component repairs, from simple adjustments to complete engine rebuilds.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed instructions for complete teardown and reassembly of all major motorcycle systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and clearly labeled electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine, transmission, and electrical system diagnostics and repair.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting trees for identifying and resolving problems.
Rebuild Instructions:
Full rebuild instructions for engine, transmission, and suspension components.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, V-twin
Displacement:
649 cc (39.6 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
76.0 mm x 71.0 mm (3.0 in x 2.8 in)
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approximately 41 hp @ 6,250 rpm (Estimate based on typical power output for this engine)
Torque:
Approximately 37 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm (Estimate based on typical power output for this engine)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni 37mm constant-velocity carburetors
Fuel Tank Capacity:
4.0 gallons (15.1 L)
Oil Type Specification:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent SAE 10W-40 API SE, SF, SG type) motorcycle oil
Oil Capacity With Filter:
2.4 L (2.5 US qt)
Ignition System:
Digital CDI
Spark Plug Type:
NGK CR9E or Denso U27ETR
Spark Plug Gap:
0.7-0.8 mm (0.028-0.031 in)
Safety Certification:
Meets applicable US EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations for motorcycles.
Braking System Front:
Hydraulic disc, 298mm (11.7 in)
Braking System Rear:
Hydraulic disc, 282mm (11.1 in)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, amber incandescent turn signals.
Chassis Stability:
Steel double-cradle frame for rigidity and stability.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 6 months. Replacement as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 6,000 miles (10,000 km).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 6,000 miles (10,000 km).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (20,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 12,000 miles (20,000 km) or 2 years.
Shaft Drive Service:
Inspect and lubricate universal joint every 6,000 miles (10,000 km). Change final drive gear oil every 12,000 miles (20,000 km).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Fork Oil Type:
Yamalube Fork Oil 10W (or equivalent)
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads, tires, clutch plates (with high mileage), fork seals, steering head bearings. Carburetor synchronization can drift over time, requiring periodic adjustment.
Electrical Component Longevity:
While generally reliable, regulator/rectifiers can be a potential failure point on some older Yamaha models; regular checks of charging system voltage are recommended.
Manufacturer Origin:
Yamaha Motor Corporation, Japan
Brand Focus:
Yamaha is renowned for its diverse range of motorcycles, from sportbikes and off-road machines to cruisers and touring bikes, as well as musical instruments and other powered products.
V Star Lineage:
The V-Star 650 platform has been a cornerstone of Yamaha's cruiser lineup since its introduction, offering accessible styling and a reliable V-twin engine.
2006 Model Updates:
While specific major changes for the 2006 model year are typically incremental for this platform, updates often include minor cosmetic refinements, new color schemes, and potential small enhancements to comfort or ergonomics based on market feedback.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
