Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a reliable, classic-styled V-twin cruiser for touring and general riding, with an emphasis on user maintenance and customization.
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow 1100, Kawasaki Vulcan 1500, Suzuki Intruder 1400/1500, Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200.
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, V-twin engine.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive for low maintenance.
Styling:
Classic cruiser styling with ample chrome, a low seat height, and pullback handlebars.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving on dealership costs and increasing vehicle longevity.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed coverage of top-end (cylinder head, valves, camshafts), bottom-end (crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons), lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled specific, but principles apply).
Engine Management:
Carburetor system (Mikuni BSW dual carbs), ignition timing, CDI unit, basic troubleshooting.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox inspection and maintenance, final drive (shaft drive system) lubrication and maintenance.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting system (headlight, taillight, indicators), horn, ignition system components, instrument panel functions.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork (telescopic, oil type and level, seals), rear shock absorber (pre-load adjustment, damping), steering system components (bearings, bushings).
Braking System:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brake systems, brake fluid type and bleeding procedures, caliper maintenance, pad replacement, master cylinder inspection.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel petcock operation, fuel lines, carburetor synchronization and adjustment, fuel filter.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain/shaft drive inspection and lubrication, brake system checks, tire pressure checks.
Repair Procedures:
Engine disassembly/reassembly, carburetor overhaul, transmission rebuild (detailed steps), fork seal replacement, brake caliper service, clutch adjustment/replacement, electrical component testing and replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic approach to identifying and resolving common performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and braking anomalies.
Specifications Data:
Torque values for critical fasteners, engine clearances (valve lash, piston ring gap), fluid capacities, electrical component specifications.
Tune Up:
Comprehensive tune-up procedures including carburetor adjustment, ignition timing verification, and general system checks.
Depth:
Comprehensive workshop level, covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and troubleshooting. Suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, V-twin, SOHC, 4-stroke
Bore X Stroke:
95.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Valve Arrangement:
2 valves per cylinder, operated by pushrods (SOHC design with rocker arms)
Horsepower Estimated:
Approx. 60-65 HP @ 5750 RPM (factory figures can vary)
Torque Estimated:
Approx. 62-65 lb-ft @ 3750 RPM (factory figures can vary)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni BSW constant velocity carburetors (37mm diameter)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (Octane Rating)
Oil Type Capacity:
Yamaha Yamalube 10W-40 or equivalent API SG or higher; Capacity: Approx. 4.2 US qt (4.0 L) with filter change.
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety is primarily based on rider skill and adherence to traffic laws. No formal crash test ratings like automobiles.
Braking System:
Dual front hydraulic disc brakes, single rear hydraulic disc brake.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, integrated front and rear turn signals, LED taillight (depending on specific model year updates/variants).
Frame Construction:
Steel double-cradle frame for stability.
Ergonomics:
Low seat height and relaxed riding position contribute to rider control and comfort.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Inspect every 3,000 miles (4,800 km), clean or replace as needed (more frequently in dusty conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 12 months.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 24 months or as recommended by inspection.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 miles (19,200 km).
Engine Oil:
Yamaha Yamalube 10W-40 or API SG, SAE 10W-40, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification).
Shaft Drive Oil:
Yamaha Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 80W-90 or equivalent API GL-4.
Carburetor Issues:
Can be prone to jet clogging if fuel is left standing for extended periods; requires regular synchronization and cleaning for optimal performance.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion on connectors, particularly in the charging system, can lead to charging issues if not maintained.
Fuel Petcock:
Diaphragm in the vacuum-operated petcock can degrade over time, leading to fuel delivery problems.
Rear Drive Shaft Boot:
The protective boot for the final drive shaft can crack or degrade, requiring replacement to prevent contamination of the drive unit.
Heritage:
Yamaha has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality, reliable motorcycles across various categories, including cruisers known for their V-twin engines and classic styling.
V Star Lineage:
The V Star line evolved from earlier Yamaha cruiser designs, with the XVS1100 representing a significant displacement in the mid-to-large cruiser segment. It was designed to compete directly with established American and Japanese cruisers, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and classic aesthetics.
Production Years Primary:
The XVS1100 was produced from 1999 through approximately 2009, with variations like the Classic and Custom models.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan.