2009 V Star 950

2009 V STAR 950

ROUNDUP

QuickRide

IN CASE YOU HADN’T NOTiced, cruisers have grown ever larger in recent years, some even surpassing the 2-liter mark. But with that extra displacement comes extra weight. More and more riders are discovering that a “middleweight” cruiser, something between 900 and 1300cc, makes a lot of sense, big enough that it isn’t easily outgrown but more manageable than the big cruisers. Yamaha’s Star line has an all-new contender in the category for 2009: the V Star 950, available in both standard and Tourer versions.

This new Star is meant to be a manageable machine with a rider-friendly seat height (26.5 inches) that should appeal not only to rookies but also to riders of shorter stature. Yet the 950 has what’s needed to bridge the gap between beginners and more-seasoned riders: strong middleweight performance, comparatively light weight (a claimed 613 pounds), crisp handling and good looks.

Gazing at this Star is indeed a pleasant experience. The steel fenders, headlight nacelle and 4.4-gallon gas tank have stand-alone appeal, and minimalist gauges nestle comfortably atop the tank. Eyes tend to naturally follow the likable lines that flow from the chromed airbox cover to the simple, 2-into-l exhaust.

The tidy, 942cc, 60degree, air-cooled, fuelinjected V-Twin has a single chain-driven overhead cam per cylinder, forgoing a classic pushrod look in favor of greater power output. Forged 85mm, 9.0:1compression pistons work an 83mm stroke inside ceramic-composite-plated cylinders. Roller-equipped rocker arms reduce frictional losses that could steal power from the fourvalve-per-cylinder motor.

We had a chance to ride both the standard and Tourer models through the hilly backroads of northern Georgia during the press introduction, and one of the first things we noticed is that they are very quiet. Owners looking for a little more rumble will be able to add slip-ons without disturbing the exhaust oxygen sensors or other parts of the emissions system. Obviously, the 950 doesn’t possess the mondo-power of the near2-liter Raider or Roadliner, but it pulls with authority all through the rpm range, with nary a hiccup from the ecofriendly closed-loop fuelinjection system.

Clutch pull at the wide lever is light; engineers made use of larger clutchplate surface area in conjunction with lighter springs to get just the right feel. Gear engagement via the heel-and-toe shifter was always positive with the five-speed box.

Despite the motor being rigidly mounted in the frame and having no counterbalancer, it’s very smooth on the open road.

Its mounting also makes the engine a stressed member of the chassis, which could be part of the reason the bike handled so solidly. Directional changes, even at cruising speeds, took nearly zero effort. Steering was neutral and remained so even during trail-braking. Quick stops in a straight line not only demonstrated the bike’s excellent stability but also showed that the single 320mm front disc and 298mm rear provide good power and feel. Tires are 130/70-18 front and 170/70-16 rear.

The $7890 standard V Star 950 is available in Raven, Candy Red and Tommy Blue. The Tourer, which comes with a windshield and hard bags, is available in Black Cherry and Liquid Silver for $8990. U

“To find an affordable midcruiser, now you can wish upon a Star.” -Mark Cernicky