1997 Yamaha XVS650 DragStar review from United Kingdom

Gear fork selector spring. Locked in 5th. Interesting!

Front disc warped.

Front brake line perished.

Front cylinder coil failed.

Rear shock tube to bracket weld failed.

Front brake light switch failed.

Rear brake light switch failed.

Throttle cable broke.

Clutch cable broke.

Shaft to final drive connector sleeve worn out.

Chrome finish on plastic covers bubbling.

Salt damage to chrome on engine covers and lower fork yoke.

I bought this bike as a starter m/c after 20 years on 4 wheels to reduce my traveling time to and from work. I had expected to move up fairly quickly, but as it does the job, is easy and pleasant to ride and has proved to be a very reliable workhorse on a daily 80 mile round trip commute, I've never felt the need to change. The forward controls position makes for a comfortable riding position especial for those with long legs.

Averaged 49.9 mpg over last year.

Averaged 13.5K miles per set of tyres over last 6 sets.

Always first off the line at lights and junctions, but runs out of steam after 60 mph.

A cruiser which responds well to a cruiser style of riding. Sit back and let the bike do what it can when it can, which makes for a relaxing ride.

As the m/c is quite front heavy, when pushed too hard the rear wheel can easily lock up under braking if you de-clutch to change down.

In adverse conditions i.e. water/diesel or icy drain covers it is the front end which normally loses traction first.

Generally the brakes, frame and handling match the low power of the engine, but this doesn't detract from the experience of general riding.

Even after a long wet and mucky week the orange and blue colors seem to give it a presence which turns the head of any passerby.