None.
Comfortable ride. The stock seat is comfortable, and even the pillion seat is good for passengers on short trips. Long trips require a better seat for passengers.
Low cost for the quality. Brand new with many options, was half the price of a comparable Harley.
Easily customizable. I've added a custom windshield, highway pegs, fog lights, running boards, fender rack, and backrest myself without needing any special tools.
Reliable. After a year of sitting while I was deployed overseas, I came home, checked the fluids, and it started right away. This bike has needed no repairs.
Performance. For a full size cruiser, this bike has excellent handling. Its long length and low profile make it excellent for long trips or freeway riding. The shaft drive and disk brakes add to its safety and improve emergency handling in those situations when car drivers don't see me.
Well, it's been a couple years since I wrote the review.
Since then...
The starter went out, but was replaced under warranty.
The pillion seat screw was recalled, and also replaced.
The battery died after 4 winters of sitting. It cost $75 to replace.
I've added several accessories, and it's even more comfortable now.
It sometimes fouls the plugs too easily, and it's tendency to run rich makes it cough at low end acceleration, and backfire sometimes. The dealership has not been helpful in resolving this issue.
If anybody knows what to do to fix this problem, please add a comment.
What octane gas are you running? V Star 1100s use 87oct, high octane is not good for these. Go to vstar 1100 forum. You will find all the info you will ever need...
Have a safe ride...
Jono.
I have a V-Star 1100 as well, and I love it.
I fixed the low end backfires on acceleration with the hyper-kit. It is an air cleaner (with butterflies), jets to re-jet the carb, and pipes. It sounds like a Harley, still gets better than 50 mpg, and runs great from idle to top end. It was just under $1000 for all, including labor. It also is easier to change the oil filter, as the pipes are now separate.
Original poster again. I was running the 92 octane which was recommended in the owners manual. Doesn't matter much now, I sold the bike to make a down payment on a new truck for my business. I don't have enough time to ride anyway. :( Maybe when I retire, or the kids move out. The guy I sold it to calls me once in a while to tell me what a great time he's having with it. I could throttle him sometimes... :)
This my first time writing. I hope someone can help.
I have a 2000 1100 classic stock black, lg. jets, remove air box and AIS system, double D 1 7/8" straight slash cuts, maximum width low profile tires.
I want to install an oil pressure gauge; there are 2 small aluminum plugs behind the rear cylinder under the cam chain tensioner. Are these oil ports from the drill off oil jackets?
And can I tap one for a gauge?
I have a 2001 V Star 1100 Custom. The starter just went out because the front end cap cracked where the ring gear is pinned to prevent it from spinning. The dealer is quoting $384 for a replacement starter and does not offer the end cap by itself. Both long bolts holding the assembly together were bent, so it apparently has been slowly turning over time from the starting torque. There is nothing other than the pin keeping it from turning, and the case is very thin at the pin and finally cracked. Very poor design.
I suggest keeping an eye on the long bolts for signs of twisting.
I am considering buying a V-star 1100 as my first bike, but I want to ask a few questions before I head out to the dealership.
First, I am 6'6" and 300 lbs. Will this bike accommodate my size? I know that it is classified as a mid-sized bike and I'm worried that it will be short, or more importantly the suspension might not support my weight.
Next, I have read about 20 reviews where fuel mileage was discussed and the numbers don't match up. On average how far will a tank of gas last before getting to the reserve? I will be doing a lot of riding between Michigan and Illinois, and want to get an idea of what my fuel costs will be.
Thanks a lot, and sorry for the huge posting.
I just bought an 07 110 custom. I'm 5'5" and real happy with it, but at 6'6" you might have to shift the controls forward.
As far as weight, I'm about 200 and my wife is 100, and we rode kinda high. It has an adjustable rear shock so you could set it to whatever you're comfortable with.
Not sure on mileage yet, but it's about a 5 gallon tank and gets about 45.
I own a 2001 V-Star Classic and am thinking about having it painted. Does anyone know if the emblems on the tank are put on with adhesive, or are they part of the tank? If they are put on with adhesive, what is the best way to get them off without damaging the tank?
Can anyone give me the proper procedure for replacing the oil filter on a 2001 Yamaha V-Star 1100?
Tim.
I'm 6'-0" and added 3" extensions to the controls. At 6'-6" you should be close with 6" extensions available on ebay for about $70. Being 3 bills should be fine, you will have to adjust things riding two up.
To change your oil, go to:
http://www.ehow.com/how_2203724_change-oil-yamaha-vstar.html
or read a manual. Bottom line is you have to remove some of the exhaust to remove the oil filter cover.
T.
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