Specifications Yamaha XV1700 Road Star

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MD Ride Redux: Star Midnight Warrior

Yamaha XV 1700 Road Star is a Japanese motorcycle in the cruiser class, built according to the canons of the American school of motorcycle building.
Actually, it was initially aimed at the American market, like its predecessor - the Yamaha Road Star 1600, and was also developed by the American division - Star Motorcycles. Based on its 1600 cc predecessor, the XV 1700 is, however, quite different from it. As, indeed, from another motorcycle with which it is often confused, and with which it has very little in common - the XV 1700 Warrior. Having replaced its predecessor on the assembly line in 2005, the new motorcycle received many minor improvements. Thus, the volume of its V-shaped air-cooled twin increased by 100 cubic meters. cm, and power increased to 75 hp. At the same time, the torque also increased, and it is best characterized by the expression “traction, like a locomotive.” The torque on the Yamaha Road Star 1700 is available from the very start, compensating for the lack of top end, so this massive motorcycle does not take up the dynamics. The only thing that is sorely missing is sixth gear in the gearbox - without it, at speeds above 140 km/h, vibrations caused by high speeds begin to annoy.

The XV 1700 Road Star has a top speed of 180 km/h, the same as its predecessor, but at that speed you're unlikely to get much driving pleasure. After reaching approximately 150 km/h, the heavy cruiser begins to handle significantly worse, and even its generally quite good brakes do not add confidence. The optimal speed for him is 120-130 km/h, although, of course, if necessary, he is capable of much more. But is it really pleasant to “twist” a low-speed engine, causing it to strain? It’s unlikely, but it’s very pleasant to ride the Road Star 1700, growling with mufflers.

The first versions of this model were equipped with a carburetor, although it was different from the one installed on the XV 1600, but after a couple of years of production it was replaced with an injector. The rear wheel drive of the motorcycle is belt driven, which greatly contributes to a smooth ride; the frame is steel. One of the features of the Yamaha Road Star 1700 is the absence of balancer shafts in the engine, which creates strong vibrations at idle, just like on a Harley-Davidson. This was done specifically to please the Americans, who like vibrations.

However, once you get going, the vibrations practically disappear, so you don't have to worry about them bothering you during the trip. Heavy and massive, on the move the XV 1700 is quite easy to control, and its enormous weight is not felt. Maneuvers are also easy for him, even rare ones - it all depends on the skills of the motorcyclist piloting him. Soft and energy-intensive suspensions perfectly absorb road irregularities, and work no worse than on any XV 1900 Stratoliner, and forward driving platforms, a wide seat and a steering wheel curved towards the rider provide a comfortable and relaxed fit.

This motorcycle is not without some “childhood ailments”, although they are not very common and not too serious. The first is the rear fender, which sometimes cracks on older motorcycles, and the reason for this is vibration. By the way, the XV 1600 suffers from the same problem. The second is rubber manifolds that supply air to the pipes. They are located behind the rear cylinder, and they are not difficult to find, after which their condition should be inspected. Heavy manifolds, screwed onto steel pipes with clamps, shake mercilessly from engine vibrations, and sometimes they are torn in the place where they are secured by clamps.

Yamaha XV 1700 Road Star is an excellent heavy cruiser for lovers of such equipment. Huge, heavy, comfortable, with monstrous low-end traction, good suspension and good brakes, it is capable of both regularly cruising around the city and taking its owner even to the ends of the earth. The 20-liter gas tank was transferred directly from the XV 1600, and fuel consumption decreased thanks to the injector, so the bike can travel 300-350 kilometers without refueling. And we can safely recommend it to fans of the old school - they will be satisfied.

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Motorcycle engine

The two-cylinder four-stroke engine is not fundamentally new. It's largely a switch from the proven XV1600 Wild Star. The engine is made according to the traditional design with four valves, two spark plugs for each cylinder, the drive of the upper valves from the lower camshaft, a separate block with a chain motor transmission at the gearbox and a dry sump lubrication system, allowing for sharp maneuvers and tilts without the risk of disrupting lubrication.

The Yamaha Warrior 1700 engine is distinguished by its cylinder diameter increased to almost 100 mm, forged pistons instead of traditional ones, and an injection system.

Thanks to this scheme, parasitic vibrations and engine noise are minimized. Some lovers of power in everything consider this last advantage to be rather a disadvantage. Some bikers add elements to the design of the exhaust pipe so that the roar of the engine makes a lasting impression on others.

The power of the 1.7 liter engine reaches 85 hp. accelerates a motorcycle with a curb weight of 300 kg to a maximum speed of almost 200 km/h. Maximum torque is achieved at 3750 rpm. It is 135 Nm.

Dimensions and weight

The dimensions of this car are, of course, impressive, but it is not yet the largest cruiser. However, if a person has never driven such large bikes before, this model will still seem gigantic to him. So this motorcycle is more suitable for those who have previously ridden at least a small representative of the cruiser class.

Yamaha XV 1700 Warrior dimensions are as follows:

• curb weight – 295 kg;
• seat height – 725 mm;
• ground clearance - 157 mm;
• wheelbase – 1665 mm;
• height – 1120 mm;
• width – 955 mm;
• length – 2385 mm;
• tank volume – 15 l.

The wheelbase is impressive, but average for a cruiser. If you compare this bike with other representatives of the class in photos and videos, it will become noticeable that it is not particularly large compared to the largest motorcycles in this category. The tank volume is impressive, but do not forget about the considerable fuel consumption.

Tuning and additional equipment

In addition to airbrushing and repainting the motorcycle in unusual colors just for fun, tuning the Yamaha Warrior 1700 necessarily includes equipment for a passenger seat. The passenger backrest allows a very small and inconvenient place for the second number to be made at least a little more comfortable and safer. Moreover, a modified exhaust, for example, Vance&Hines BigShots, in addition to its beauty and deep sound, can burn the legs (oh, no, legs) of a charming blonde even through the overalls, if it is not leather.

The protective arches may not carry any meaning if you drive slowly and carefully. But on the road, and especially in traffic jams, anything can happen. Therefore, they not only give solidity and are used as handles for lifting a fallen “horse,” but also protect against those who want to push back the impudent person with physical force.

A high windshield is also not installed for beauty. At speeds above 100 km/h it protects from the oncoming flow of cold air, and at higher speeds it reduces the tension in the muscles of the neck and back when resisting the same oncoming air flow.

Heated handles are also not a whim. Anyone who rides a high-speed motorcycle not only in the summer will understand. Spherical mirrors add style and, most importantly, allow you to see what is happening behind you in the blind spot.

Something else that is important for travel, but can ruin the appearance of a fast and predatory motorcycle, is the panniers. Stitched leather saddlebags must match the style of the iron horse

The soundtrack includes not only the roar of a powerful engine. Many pilots replace the stock horn with something more appropriate, such as a Hadley horn.

Disadvantages of a motorcycle

For the powerful Yamaha Warrior XV 1700 motorcycle, there is not enough sixth gear in the gearbox.
All pilots note this and call it one of the main disadvantages of the motorcycle. However, almost all Japanese choppers and cruisers are guilty of this. The second is considered to be insufficient ergonomics, especially for a passenger who can rarely withstand an hour of travel without rest. And due to the peculiarities of landing in accordance with the canons of the class, the pilot needs rest after five hours on the road to stretch his tired muscles.

Pilots also cite the optics as a disadvantage. The light from the standard headlight is not enough; almost all owners immediately install xenon. And the rear turn signals with a lot of plastic fail almost at the first fall, and you have to install a metal platform to attach them.

The Yamaha Warrior turned out to be so original, at least for Russian lovers of thrills and speed, that drivers sometimes even run out of words to express the delight of riding, and are left with only emotions. Moreover, the shortcomings can be completely eliminated, because they do not spoil the pleasure of controlling a powerful and obedient predator.

Description of the motorcycle

In terms of engine power, the Yamaha XV 1700 Warrior is somewhat weaker than the custom Honda VTX1800 with its classic forms, but in appearance it differs quite noticeably. The new vision of style by Yamaha designers has led to the fact that all descriptions of the motorcycle are replete with poetic comparisons. A pumped-up handsome man with a flying silhouette, a powerful and harmonious engine in all details, cast but seemingly weightless wheels on three spokes, a smooth transition from the gas tank to the saddle really deserves words of praise. The designers decided that the huge muffler pipe also contributed to the overall style, but many owners began tuning their iron beast by replacing this particular part. But the taste and color, as they say.

By the way, the beast is not as iron as it might seem at first glance. The powerful, thick, black-painted frame is not steel at all. To make the structure lighter, it is made of aluminum alloy.

What do the owners say?

Judging by the reviews of the owners, it is not difficult to get a used car, but it is unlikely that you will be able to purchase a new bike. However, given the quality of this model, it will be possible to find a bike in good condition. The main thing is to understand the equipment in order to be able to assess its condition before purchasing.

Parts can still be easily obtained considering how much most parts cost. They say that in small towns this sometimes poses problems, but given delivery, such difficulties can be easily solved. In at least one review, an owner from a remote village reports having no problems maintaining the bike.

The car is bright, dynamic and, as described by many, is capable of performing well on the race track. However, experienced owners advise not to abuse the capabilities of the motorcycle. It's a cruiser, not hard to accelerate, but not so easy to stop or control.

If you use this car correctly, driving will bring you nothing but pleasure. They note that the bike’s seating position is comfortable, at least more comfortable than on many other classmates of this model. At the same time, of course, beginners are not advised to purchase such a bike, because its character is too violent.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that the Yamaha XV 1700 Warrior is an excellent bike not only for its era, but also for modern times. So far, the model is not ideologically outdated. This is still one of the most modern cruisers, both in appearance and in technical characteristics. Of course, in thirty years it will already look like a classic from the beginning of the century, but now it is not even close to outdated.

Motorcycle dimensions

The motorcycle is based on the famous Long & Low principle, that is, long and low.

Dimensions of the Yamaha Warrior XV 1700 RS (L × W × H): 2.4 × 0.92 × 1.12 m. At the saddle, its height is 0.7 m, ground clearance - 11.5 cm. With a wide wheelbase 1 .7 meters and a fairly low seating position, typical of choppers with arms and legs extended forward, the motorcycle is easy to control. The low ground clearance and wide footpegs are felt when there is a need to make a sharp turn, but under normal conditions this is rather a plus of the design.

The low silhouette, combined with a specific landing position, allows the pilot to feel quite confident behind the controls even at speeds approaching 150 km/h, which is not typical for conventional cruisers.

Yamaha XV 1700 Road Star - a great cruiser

This is a great cruiser, one of the best. As a continuation of the 1600 model, the Yamaha XV 1700 Road Star looks even brighter. Now the bike is even larger in size, and is equipped with an advanced exhaust system, which is called “sports”.

Yes, some will not like the fact that there is an injector instead of a carburetor, but these are the realities of current standards in the industry.

Appearance

The Yamaha XV 1700 Road Star looks catchy. Pleasant design in everything, from spoked or alloy wheels to the dimensions and shape of the headlight. The mirrors here are sophisticated. The pipes are chrome-plated and the front fender is elegantly curved downwards. However, like the rear.

There is no windshield, but one can be easily installed. However, if you drive a cruiser at optimal speed, this will not be necessary. Only after 130 km/h does the driver begin to blow away. However, this is also possible at lower speeds if the person is of light build.

Comfort

The motorcycle allows you to move comfortably with a passenger thanks to the backrest behind the passenger seat. Not that it's much of an insurance policy, but it's better than nothing. In terms of size and weight, the bike is well suited for two.

Convenience is also reflected in road stability. That's why many people who travel in open spaces love cruisers. The latter are stable in gusts of wind, but it is important to understand that their stability also has a limit. Especially in wet weather. It is important to note that this technique is not suitable for off-road travel. And this applies to any model in the class.

Dimensions and weight

The motorcycle is one of the largest in its class. This is a huge, heavy machine designed to be driven at a leisurely pace. Compared to road bikes, this bike looks like a giant. However, this can also be said when compared with small cruisers.

The dimensions of the Yamaha XV 1700 Road Star are as follows:

• height – 1140 mm;
• width – 980 mm;
• length – 2500 mm;
• wheelbase – 1688 mm;
• seat height – 710 mm;
• ground clearance - 145 mm;
• curb weight – 334 kg;
• Tank capacity – 20 l.

Fuel consumption here is significant. So you shouldn’t move away from civilization to avoid finding yourself in a difficult situation. Driving such a motorcycle with your hands while walking will not be easy.

Specifications

The parameters of the Yamaha XV 1700 Road Star are impressive. A powerful modern engine, reliable brakes, a well-thought-out suspension... In addition, there is a belt drive installed, which makes gear shifting quiet. And in general, the transmission here is convenient.

Looking at photos and even videos, it is not easy to draw a conclusion about the capabilities of the bike on the road. But the description of its technical characteristics gives a complete idea of ​​what the motorcycle is capable of. Considering how much such equipment costs (about 300 thousand Russian rubles, used), these are very decent parameters.

Production

The bike began production in 2002. In 2004, it essentially replaced the 1600th model. Production ceased in 2015. Unfortunately, today it is unlikely that you will be able to buy a new motorcycle. However, if you buy used equipment in good condition, you won’t have to spend a lot of money on maintaining it. After all, spare parts are not difficult to get.

Classmates

Among the competitors, three striking models can be distinguished: a bike from Honda - VTX 1800, VZ 1600 Marauder from Suzuki and a Kawasaki motorcycle VN 1700 Vulcan. The most popular of them, of course, is Vulcan, but the other two are not particularly far behind in terms of technical parameters. The design of each model is good in its own way.

History of changes

It is interesting that over the thirteen years of production, no significant changes have arisen. However, it is clear why this happened. From the point of view of the concept of a heavy cruiser, this car was initially almost optimal, and various innovations could spoil something.

Video review of the motorcycle

What do the owners say?

Those who have previously ridden a sportbike or cross-country motorcycle note that it is impossible to imagine a greater contrast. A completely different perception of driving. According to their impressions, the XV 1700 Road Star looks more like a ship than a motorcycle. And even those who are already accustomed to small cruisers experience similar feelings.

In one review, a biker calls this model his favorite because it makes riding fun at low speeds. Yes, not everyone is ready to take risks and accelerate hard to get adrenaline. Some people require a leisurely leisurely ride. But road motorcycles are unlikely to please in this regard.

But cruisers are just capable of impressing a person even at low speeds. Simply due to the weight of the car, an indescribable feeling is created. And, according to many reviews, it is the Yamaha XV 1700 Road Star that is the motorcycle that most conveys this feeling.

So, if you like large cruisers, you should not pass by this model. It is difficult to say how the industry will develop further, and it is possible that the quality of bikes will decline. Therefore, perhaps this is one of the last worthy representatives of the class.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that the Yamaha XV 1700 Road Star is one of the most colorful representatives of the cruiser class. Yes, some will not like the fact that an injection system is installed here, and not a carburetor. On the other hand, this means that the bike will be usable for much longer. For example, if equipment with outdated standards is prohibited for use.

Motorcycle design

To lighten the weight of the motorcycle, all its components are mounted on an aluminum duplex frame, but so that it does not stand out from the general concept of the motorcycle, it is painted black. The tank is drop-shaped, quite wide, but its capacity is not very large.

The transition from tank to seat is made smooth.

The driver's seat is quite large with good anatomical shape, but the passenger gets a narrow, short seat that clearly cannot be called comfortable.

Under the tank is a V-shaped air-cooled power unit. The motorcycle's power supply system is installed in the cylinder camber; air filters are installed on the sides between the cylinders.

The entire structure of the power unit turned out to be knocked down, without the visibility of any elements that do not fit into the design.

The exhaust gas exhaust system is one-sided and located on the right. One elbow comes out of each cylinder, then they are combined into one dimensional pipe.

The gearbox is 5-speed, manual and with foot shift, but the creators made the drive to the drive wheel V-belt.

Initially, the motorcycle was equipped with three-spoke wheels, but later they were replaced with five-spoke wheels. The brake system for the Yamaha Warrior XV 1700 was borrowed from the YZF-R1 sports bike.

The suspension of the Yamaha Warrior consists of an inverted telescopic front fork. A monoshock absorber, familiar to motorcycles of this class, is installed at the rear.

Advantages and disadvantages of the model

Production of the Yamaha Warrior XV 1700 began in 2002 and lasted 8 years.

During this time, it underwent a facelift twice, and only a small one.

In 2006, the motorcycle's wheel rims, mirrors and seat were changed, and the last batch released in 2010 differed from its predecessor only in the golden color of some elements.

The advantages of the Yamaha Warrior XV 1700 include the somewhat non-trivial appearance of the motorcycle, excellent road performance, and engine characteristics.

This bike really looks unusual - squat, wide, with a minimum of chrome parts and excellent assembly.

But this bike also has disadvantages. Most of them relate to the design of the motorcycle.

The driver's seating position is not very comfortable, which negatively affects the possibility of long trips. There is no need to talk about the place of the second passenger at all - the second seat serves more as a decoration for the rear fender than as a seat.

The motorcycle looks very serious, but it doesn’t turn out to be much of a “cruiser”.