1984 Yamaha Venture Royale from United States of America

Summary:

Great ride with lots of power, which would be even better without the electrical issues...

Faults:

Dash lights out.

Radio did not work when purchased.

Turn signals worked intermittently.

Fuse box corroded and rotted out.

Broken plastic body pieces.

Trunk and side cases leaked even during light rain.

Rear air shocks either wouldn't hold air or the compressor didn't pump.

Ignition switch would not hold the key in, which caused my keys to fall out and get lost.

General Comments:

Other than terrible electrical issues, the bike always started and ran great. Didn't seem to have the gear issue that a lot of them do (not yet at 36,000 miles anyway). Had a lot of power and acceleration from a 1200cc engine. Did seem excessively heavy and hard to control at times, although I was a bit inexperienced with such a big bike at the time (went from a Honda Reflex 250cc Maxi-Scooter to this massive touring bike, which was probably not the best idea). Also seemed to have a "lean-in" a bit when driving.

I wouldn't mind having another one if the said issues were fixed on it. I think that now that I have 8 years of riding bikes, which range between the Yamaha, an HD Sportster, and my current bike, a 1983 Honda Goldwing Standard, I could appreciate the Venture a little more now.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 16th September, 2014

1987 Yamaha Venture Royale from United States of America

Summary:

Please Yamaha - Bring back the Venture Royale

Faults:

Literally the only problem I had was the clutch master cylinder was losing fluid, and after tracing the problem, I found the bleeder valve was leaking. Ordered a new one, installed it, and back on the road again.

General Comments:

I really feel that Honda got very lucky that Yamaha stopped reproducing these VENTURE ROYALES. I've been a Honda dude forever until I finally purchased my 1300. For a 26 year old bike it was so ahead of its time that it's modern now. JUST A FABBO BIKE - BOO-YAA YAMAHA!!!

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st February, 2013

6th Jan 2014, 20:22

I agree, the Venture is a classic.