Motorcycle XVS 250 Dragstar 2001: technical specifications, photos, videos

Sad news from Yamaha: 21 years after its introduction, the beloved YZF-R6 is being discontinued. The 2021 model year will be the last in the history of the legendary R6. But don’t let this news upset you too much: at the same time, news appeared that current and modern models such as the V-Star 250, Bolt R-Spec, XSR700 and XSR900, Super Ténéré ES, FJR1300ES, Star Venture, as well as XMAX continue to be produced for the 2021 model year.

The shocking news that the Yamaha YZF-R6 is coming to the end of its life cycle did not come as a surprise to those who follow the current state of the motorcycle industry. In addition to the strict Euro 5 econorms, which have significantly influenced models of recent years, the sports bike segment, especially 600 cc ones, is experiencing a rather impressive decline in sales. This is probably why Yamaha management did not consider it necessary to modify and modernize the R6, which complies with Euro 4 econorms, to the current and significantly more stringent requirements.

This move cannot be called new, and for example Honda has already gone through this, discontinuing its CBR600RR 3 years ago, mainly due to environmental requirements. True, the remains of that model are still sold as new motorcycles, and Honda released a small update of the CBR600RR for the Japanese and Australian markets, however, unable to squeeze the new version into the narrow framework of Euro 5.

Since its introduction in 1999, the YZF-R6 has been a serious track weapon, taking first prize in the second World Supersport race of the 1999 season. Since then, the R6 has taken more wins and first prizes around the globe than you can count, but should teams and drivers be seriously upset about the model being discontinued?

Of course not. Regardless of the discontinuation of the road version, Yamaha respects the heritage of the model, and the motorcycle we know will continue to be produced under the name Yamaha R6 Race - a non-homologated version for the road, a pure track version that can be bought new from a Yamaha dealer, at least in Europe. As for other markets, the stock of the regular R6 will still last for some time, but life will tell. Interestingly, Yamaha does not specify whether the R6 Race will in fact be the same civilian version of the R6 with its mirrors, lighting and license plate mount, given that these things are not needed for the track.

But the options available for the R6 can sweeten the pill considerably, collected in one GYTR kit, which includes literally everything that the average racer puts on his road R6 for conversion to a track one:

• Racing front fairing
• Full Akrapovic exhaust
• ECU
• Wiring
• Killswitch
• Interface cable
• Inertial boost plug
• ABS emulator
• Tank cap
• Seat padding
• Reinforced brake lines
• Front brake lever protection
• Racing adjustable footpegs with optional reverse gear kit
• Rear sprocket guard (shark fin)
• 14 tooth sprocket for 520 chain
• 45 teeth rear sprocket for 520 chain
• Set of nuts for sprockets for 520th chain
• Gold racing chain DID 520
• Attaching the stand
• Stand

For those who are not satisfied with the included components, other GYTR and Öhlins options are also available.

VMAX and company

Another legendary model is also leaving the stage. Yamaha VMAX, which appeared in 1985 under the name V-Max and underwent such a large-scale update in 2009 that even its name began to be written in CAPITAL LETTERS, is also in production for the last year.

A motorcycle that was hard to believe, with an extremely pronounced and even slightly anime-like masculinity, incredible characteristics and equally incredible design miscalculations, attracting attention since 1985 with its 1197 cc four-cylinder V-twin engine (and even more so the later 1679 cc version ), became the talk of the town for his ability to pull out his hands with powerful acceleration. Never having a turbine, the original V-Max was equipped with a device called V-Boost, which simulates the blowing of a turbocharged engine by opening special valves at high speeds, sending an additional dose of air into the combustion chambers. A crazy model with an offset rear wheel, wild fuel consumption, low range, weak brakes and low lean angles, the Yamaha V-Max was living proof of the 'if it works, don't touch it' philosophy that Yamaha has followed in many other models, updating them gently speaking not every year. And it was sold, from 1985 to 2008, essentially remaining the same motorcycle. The 2009 VMAX was clearly late, and despite careful modernization, it largely retained the tackiness of the ’85 model, which was acceptable for a motorcycle of the last millennium, but few people were interested in the new models of the current one. In many ways, the VMAX became larger - in engine, in body kit, in dimensions, but it was not sold as happily. So, alas, the end of the legend was just around the corner, and Yamaha decided not to modernize its 'Flying Sledgehammer', so in recent years, new motorcycles that did not comply not only with Euro 5, but even Euro 4, were sold only in America. Determined to end this stagnation, Yamaha has discontinued the VMAX, with the remainder expected to be sold in 2021.

In addition, the WR250R and the SMAX city scooter will not be included in the coming year.

Excerpts from Yamaha's press release are below:

In addition to the already published full line of Yamaha MT hyper-naked motorcycles, information has recently been published about Yamaha's current on-road motorcycles for the 2021 model year. From urban daily commutes to long-distance touring, the Super Ténéré ES, FJR1300ES, Star Venture and XMAX scooter continue their legendary presence on the road. Additionally, the Sport Heritage Series motorcycles, including the Bolt R-Spec, V Star 250, XSR700 and XSR900, return to the lineup for 2021, combining classic design with modern technology features.

Yamaha Virago 250 (XV 250) motorcycle review

The first thing I would like to note. I live in Khabarovsk and finding tires for this motorcycle is simply NOT REAL. Everyone points to non-standard tire sizes. If you decide to buy a used motorcycle, then look at the tires. If it is already running out, decide for yourself whether to buy it or not. The problem with the front wheel 3.00 x 18 was resolved very quickly. The tire from our trusty MINSK motorcycle fit perfectly. Yes, yes, an ordinary road tire. It costs on average 1.5k. Japanese - 2.5 - 3k to order. I bought it and replaced it. The only negative is that the height of the Russian tire is slightly lower than the Japanese one (about 1.5 cm). But it looks very normal. As for the rear wheel, it's sad. Finding 130x90x15 is extremely difficult. 130x90x16 is more common, but for this you will have to change the disk if you find one at all.

Now a few words about the gear shift pedal. If the motorcycle is new, the pedal height is such that you have to ride in shoes like summer shoes. In high boots, for example, to change gear, you will have to lift your foot forward and do it with your heel. The sock won't fit. But this can be solved in 5 minutes. The pedal drive is attached via a spline connection to the shift mechanism. After releasing the locking bolt, remove it from the splines and move just one tooth to the left or right, as needed. But keep in mind that if the pedal is raised high, there is a chance of accidentally hitting it with your foot while moving. Therefore, be careful.

Gas handle. There is a flaw here that makes my blood curdle. The handle is just loose. If you tighten the bottom plug, the play disappears but the handle sticks. You'll have to get used to this.

Steering column. I don’t know whose cunning plan this is, but the steering wheel has two extreme locks (not full) and one in the middle position. In other words, when driving in a straight line, the steering wheel does not fold - it is held in place by this semi-clamp. On the one hand, this is convenient, on the other hand, steering on turns is very unusual and inconvenient.

Protection from dirt. She's gone. A motorcycle without manual “tuning” in this direction is simply not suitable for driving in drizzle, rain and on dirty roads. Everything will be dirty - legs, engine, rear fork, pipes, footpegs. This has been verified.

Chain transmission. This is the weak point of any such motorcycle. If you are buying a used motorcycle, the chain is also an important part to pay attention to. Its strong sag guarantees you a twitch when releasing the gas and even gradually adding it in 4th-5th gear. After driving like this for a couple of days, I noticed it immediately. A smooth and very smooth clutch solves the problem, but naturally the clutch is already burning. Therefore, to choose the golden mean, keep an eye on the chain and drive gear. The chain tension should be 1.5 - 1.8 cm if you press on it from above. In other words, it should not hang and should not be stretched so that it is like a string. You need to wash and lubricate the chain once a month if you ride very often. This is not an exhausting procedure. You just need to make a stand to hang the rear wheel, since the motorcycle does not have its own double stand, although there are places for its attachment.

For those who are not in a hurry to go to the other world, this motorcycle is perhaps the best solution for mastering the basic skills of handling a motorcycle. You can get a good workout on it and practice all the necessary reflexes when driving, as well as repair skills. Unfortunately, there are no repair manuals. More precisely, they exist, but they are extremely difficult to find and they are all in English. You will most likely have to order spare parts and wait a long time.

And yes, I completely forgot. A speed of 85 km/h is already dangerous by Japanese standards for such a motorcycle. This is indicated by the red SPEED lamp. Although this is a small motorcycle, without pathos and show-off, compared to other “biker” motorcycles it looks very decent.

This hasn't been a great review yet from my point of view.

Normal, tiny Vekha, one carb for two pots, not a race fact)) works nicely, convenient for a little girl. due to its mass and power, you don’t have to think about the chain, sprockets and tires.

My Viraga almost sniffed gasoline, about 3 liters. 100 km, very comfortable seat, after the accident last year, I drove 850 m a day and my bones almost didn’t ache, the chain was used Japanese, I haven’t changed the tires yet... I’ll sell it... You can drive 120, but it’s comfortable 90, did not break, Motul oil...

Yamaha V Star 250 2021

Yamaha V Star 250 2021

Light and nimble, the 2021 Yamaha V Star 250 is the only V-Twin in its class of small-capacity cruisers. With a seat height of only 68.5 cm, the V Star 250 is the ideal choice for those looking for a compact, light and fun motorcycle.

The 2021 Yamaha V Star 250 will be available in Raven color from December. Recommended retail price at the time of publication: unknown for the Russian Federation, $4500 for the USA.

Yamaha XSR700 and XSR900 2021

The neo-retro styling and advanced technology of the Yamaha XSR700 and XSR900 make these 2021 models timeless classics. The compact twin-cylinder engine gives the XSR700 unique performance to match its unique styling. The XSR900 combines cutting-edge engineering, a superb three-cylinder engine and cutting-edge electronics with a retro-styled body kit that adds a nice nostalgic feel.

Both models will be available in Radical White/Rapid Red from December. The recommended retail price for the XSR700 at the time of publication is: unknown for the Russian Federation, $8500 for the USA, and for the XSR900 at the time of publication: unknown for the Russian Federation, $9500 for the USA.

Yamaha Super Tenéré ES 2021

Yamaha Super Tenéré ES 2021

Rugged, reliable and designed for unparalleled comfort on long rides, the 2021 Yamaha Super Ténéré ES is designed to explore everything that lies beyond the pavement. Its extremely compact 1199 cc engine and electronically controlled suspensions are designed for both comfortable city driving and traversing countries and continents.

The 2021 Yamaha Super Ténéré ES will be available in Matte Raven Black from December. Recommended retail price for this model at the time of publication: unknown for the Russian Federation, $16,300 for the USA.

Yamaha FJR1300ES 2021

The 2021 Yamaha FJR1300ES symbolizes “sport” in the sport-tourer class. The 1298cc, 16-valve, DOHC, liquid-cooled inline-four engine delivers excellent linear power and torque for unparalleled powerful acceleration at all rpms.

The 2021 Yamaha FJR1300ES will be available in Liquid Graphite from January 2021. Recommended retail price for this model at the time of publication: unknown for the Russian Federation, $18,000 for the USA.

Specifications

Engine from the gearbox foot side.

Engine from the brake foot side.

Bottom view of the crankcase.

Rubber pipe between cylinders.

The bike uses a classic V-twin ( 2 cylinders, 4 strokes ) with air cooling. Compared to other features and solutions of this model, it can be called a classic.

Transmission and clutch

The bike is equipped with a 5-speed gearbox.

There are no particular problems in the box itself, but if you buy a new one, you will have to modify the switching foot (more details below, in the features).

Unlike older models, the main drive is a classic one - a chain .

A classic chain drive does not take power away from the engine, unlike a cardan, but requires constant maintenance and periodic replacement.

Brakes

But the brakes are practically the same as other models in the line.

Front disc brake.

Rear drum brake.

The front wheel is stopped by 1 disc with 2 pistons , rotor diameter 282 mm . The rear is braked by drums. A feature common to the entire line is specially designed for it. There are no brake assist systems.

Yamaha Star Venture 2021

The top-end transcontinental touring motorcycle Yamaha Star Venture 2021 is equipped with a high-torque two-cylinder V-engine with a displacement of 1854 cubic centimeters. Combining unparalleled comfort and advanced technology, the Star Venture comes equipped with GPS navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, additional speakers and Yamaha's exclusive Dual Zone audio system, as well as standard fog lights, luggage rack and alarm.

The 2021 Yamaha Star Venture will be available in Intensity White and Impact Blue color options from December. Recommended retail price for this model at the time of publication: unknown for the Russian Federation, $27,000 for the USA.

Yamaha XVS 1100 Drag Star (V-Star 1100) - cruiser in high-tech style

This bike was released on the eve of the twenty-first century. This can be seen at least from the design of the Yamaha XVS 1100 Drag Star. The technical characteristics of the motorcycle also speak of its modernity.

An interesting choice for those who love high-tech cruisers.

Appearance

The design is interesting primarily due to the front fender and two chrome pipes. The front wing increases significantly downwards, reminiscent of the wings of cars of the thirties and forties. The Yamaha XVS 1100 Drag Star, however, looks modern and innovative for its era.

The wheels here are spoked, however, if you look from afar, it may sometimes seem that they are cast, due to the isolation of the groups of spokes. The passenger seat is not equipped with a backrest. This makes riding with a passenger dangerous, despite the fact that the seat is slightly curved upward in the rear.

Comfort

The bike is comfortable to ride on spacious trails, where this large motorcycle can easily maneuver at low and medium speeds. In the city, such a vehicle will quickly tire. For example, if you have to turn around somewhere in the yard, then, firstly, it will not be easy, and secondly, it may sometimes end in repairs. After all, the clearance here is small.

Also, if a person rides such a bike in a traffic jam, he will have to periodically prop it up with his foot. And this bike is far from light. If you use such a machine in suitable conditions, it will only bring pleasure. Of course, if the rider is experienced enough to ride such a motorcycle.

Dimensions and weight

This is not the largest cruiser, but perhaps one of them. The length, height and width of this machine clearly show that this is an impressive bike. Of course, such dimensions and weight cannot but affect maneuverability. But this cannot be considered a disadvantage, because this class was initially distinguished by significant dimensions.

The Yamaha XVS 1100 Drag Star has the following dimensions:

• curb weight – 275 kg;
• seat height – 690 mm;
• ground clearance - 145 mm;
• wheelbase – 1640 mm;
• height – 1095 mm;
• width – 895 mm;
• length – 2405 mm;
• tank volume – 17 l.

The dimensions are impressive, as is the weight. And the tank volume is appropriate. Of course, with this you won’t be able to go without gas stations for very long, but this is not critical. All the same, you won’t be able to travel off-road on such a bike.

Specifications

The car is not particularly powerful, but such a cruiser does not require high engine performance. The local torque and power are enough to use the motorcycle comfortably. Of course, if you use the equipment for its intended purpose, like a cruiser.

If a person wants to drive one on a race track at top speeds, he most likely will not feel pleasure. This car is not designed for that.

The cardan drive is here for various reasons. And many will like the special sounds that occur when changing gears on such a transmission. Those who want almost silent shifting should pay attention to belt-driven motorcycles. The chain drive will also make certain unpleasant noises.

Production

The bike was produced from 1999 to 2011. During this time, the Yamaha XVS 1100 Drag Star made an impression on many, and therefore there are still many who want to buy a used copy. If the bike has been used correctly, it will be almost like new. Perhaps this car will one day be called a classic.

Classmates

The only competitor to this model from Yamaha is the Honda Shadow 1100. There is no Kawasaki or Suzuki motorcycle comparable in engine size and overall performance. Shadow and Drag Star are not much different, but outwardly, perhaps, the bike from Honda looks more aesthetically pleasing.

History of changes

In 2000, the Classic modification appeared, and in 2003, the Silverado. These versions of the model have no fundamental differences from the original version. This motorcycle has not undergone any other changes, which only means that the car was originally made well and modernly and did not need any modifications.

What do the owners say?

Many bikers highly value this machine. Although it has been out of production for a long time, it is still easy to maintain and reliable. According to owner reviews, this car is capable of long trips. However, no one advises moving far from civilization.

Reviews note that this is one of the first cruisers with a futuristic design. And this is easy to see if you look at a couple of photos and videos. The model looks more interesting, even than many modern road motorcycles. The design of the car is superior to any other sportbike, not to mention a cross-country motorcycle.

If you want a more reliable and interesting car, this bike will be an excellent choice. Parts for it are easy to get, considering how much most of these parts cost. According to the description of those who have been using this car for a long time, it almost immediately pleases you with comfort; you practically don’t need to get used to it.

If you need to drive hundreds of kilometers on a flat road, this car is just right. It’s another matter if we’re talking about thousands of kilometers, then it’s time to think about a touring motorcycle or a touring enduro. And it's not that this is a bad model, it's just that the class itself is intended for something else.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that the Yamaha XVS 1100 Drag Star is a magnificent motorcycle for its era, which combines decent technical characteristics and elegant design. Even if this is a modern car, it is already clear that it will go down in history.