Say big Japanese cruiser-tourer and most people will immediately think of a Goldwing, which set new standards when Honda updated it back in 2001.
Just unveiled in the US, Yamaha are hoping that their new Star Venture will change that.
The Japanese manufacturer say it’s a ‘Transcontinental Tourer’ and it’s clearly aimed at the Honda along with the likes of BMW’s K1600GTL and certain Harley models.
The Yamaha uses an 1854cc power plant not dissimilar to that used in the old XV1900 model, but also has a suite of electronic gadgetry including ride by wire throttle. There’s multiple ride modes, traction control and cruiser control plus a whole Infotainment system.
It uses a steel frame with alloy sub-frame to help centralise mass, and also uses a new six-speed, shaft-drive transmission.
At 434kg it’s not light, but Yamaha’s ‘Sure Park’ system which employs an electric crawler gear helps you to maneuver it both forwards and backwards at stops.
Yamaha have decided to fit Bridgestone’s Exedra G853 on the front and G852 to the rear, and Bridgestone states that it “specifically designed its Exedra tyres for the Star Venture, optimising the tyre shape and structure for cruiser motorcycles.” The tyre maker comments that “Exedra motorcycle tyres are designed with superior shock-absorption technology, and also deliver the stability needed for straight-running, handling and steering responsiveness.”
Unfortunately there don’t seem to be any imminent plans to bring this bike to the UK, but we can hope!
Find out more about the Exedra range here.
