1999 Yamaha V-Star Classic 650 review from United States of America
"For the money you can't go wrong"
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
No faults really, the gas cap screw came loose and fell in the tank. I took off the tank and retrieved it in a few minutes.
It does suggest that a valve adjustment be done every 4k miles on this bike. That's the only inconvenience I can see.
General comments?
This motorcycle is exactly what I wanted and needed. My reasons: The cartilage in my knees is gone and its bone rubbing on bone. I found it almost impossible to hold up my XS 1100 because of my knees, the seat height, and the bikes weight. This XVS 650 Classic is only 537 pounds, seat is 27 inches to the ground, (which creates a very good center of gravity) and very easy to handle. I've have owned 8 bikes over the past 36 years, so I'm no expert, but I can feel a good bike when I ride one.
Almost everyone that sees it thinks it's a Harley, and at least an 1100cc. I get 50 miles per gallon, and with gas prices going up everyday that's very helpful. The stylish looks of this bike are fantastic, lots of chrome, very comfortable, and the stock pipes give a low powerful tone, that won't make you deaf after a long or short trip.
I think a sixth gear would improve the gas mileage and maintain a lower rpm. At 70 mph it hums right along. It does vibrate a little at higher RPM's, but what V Twin doesn't? A gel seat pad cures that problem.
It's a cruiser not a crotch rocket! I got it for that reason. Not for the need for speed, but for a nice smooth comfortable ride. And have you seen the price of insurance for a crotch rocket compared to a cruiser. Before you buy a bike look into the insurance first. It'll surprise you!
I'm only 5'9" 180 lbs and this bike would be great for even smaller people to ride.
I couldn't be happier with a bike, than I am with this one. It's got the looks, style, power, and dependability that I was looking for. And let's face it, it won't break the bank on purchasing it either. I plan on a long and happy riding experience with my 650 VStar Classic.
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![]() | Best bang for the buck you can get |
![]() | Best bike I've ever owned, and I highly recommend it! |
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 2000 |
| First year of ownership | 2008 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Acceleration marks | 7/10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Handling marks | 8/10 |
| Braking marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 3420 miles |
| Most recent distance | 6461 miles |
| Previous motorcycle | Yamaha XS1100 |
| Date of Entry | 8th June, 2008 |

