99 European model Yamaha Sports "XVS1100" to debut at '98 Intermot Show as 1100cc reincarnation of the "Drag Star Spirit"

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. and its European subsidiary Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. (YMENV) will exhibit the new '99 European model Yamaha Sport "XVS1100" at the first Intermot '98 show, a totally new fair for motorcycles and scooters held in Munich, Germany, on September 16 for a five-days run at the New Munich Trade Centre.

The "XVS1100" is a new model that brings the "Low and Long" Drag Star spirit into the over-one-liter class. It is a machine that integrates that feeling of solid muscle and presence that only a big displacement bike can offer with stable handling and a real kick of acceleration. The addition of this new XVS1100 fills out the air-cooled V-twin "Drag Star" series that already includes a Japanese-market 400cc version and the popular European-market 600cc model. At the same time it adds impressive new weight to the Yamaha "Star Series" that includes the liquid-cooled V4 "Royal Star."


Yamaha Sports "XVS1100"
'99 European new model debuting at Intermot '98
Name: Yamaha Sports "XVS1100"

The Yamaha Sports "XVS1100" is a newly developed model that weds the unique Drag Star concept with the impressive presence and prestige of the liter bike class. With a beautiful balance of solid liter class bulk and muscle with a stable riding feel and spirited acceleration response, this is Yamaha's "Big-sized Drag Cruiser."

The XVS1100 is powered by an air-cooled 4-stroke SOHC 2-valve 75-degree V-twin engine. While adopting the same basic design as the engine on the popular XV1100 Virago with its rhythmic pulse and crisp sound, almost all of the internal moving parts and the intake/exhaust systems have been re-designed. To complete the performance goals of the "Drag Cruiser" concept, the valve system has also been given new settings.
(1) To achieve a new character that combines sporty performance with solid engine pulse ...
- The crank mass has been reduced and the transmission ratios have been changed (wider ratios)
(2) To reduce mechanical noise...
- New-design high rigidity crankcase, new-design high-rigidity case cover
(3) To reduce vibration...
- Forger aluminum piston and carburized connecting rods adopted
(4) To further improve reliability...
- Chrome-composite plated bores
In addition to these features, a number of newly designed exterior parts have given this model an impressive change of image.

A BSR 37mm diameter carburetor equipped with TPS functions is adopted. Along with the above-mentioned optimized crank mass and the combined reduction in reciprocating mass achieved by the adoption of lightweight forged pistons and carburized connecting rods give the engine outstanding response.

(1) The adoption of the twin over-and-under mufflers produce a distinctive exhaust sound.
(2) The line of the drive shaft has been offset an additional 29 mm to the left compared to the XV1100 Virago. Together with the fitting of a naked shaft, this enabled the rear wheel to be mounted with a wide 170mm tire (the XV1100 Virago mounts a 140 mm tire).

A new double cradle frame has been designed to give full expression to the "Low and Long" design concept of the Drag Star series.
As with the XVS400 and XVS650, this model adopts a new double-cradle tubular steel frame that encases the engine to accentuate the "Low and Long" image. This combines with the low 690mm seat height and long 1640mm wheelbase to give this model its distinctive profile. Also, the downtube assembly has been made detachable for increased serviceability.

The wide type front fork which has 41mm diameter inner tubes, has a left-right pitch of 240mm. The rear suspension also achieves outstanding cushioning effect with a Monocross suspension linked to the triangular rear arm. The overall effect of these features is a solid sense of stability combined with easy handling characteristics.

The front wheel is fitted with a double disc brake with dual-pot calipers, while the rear features a single disc brake with opposed-piston caliper. Together they give the XVS1100 plenty of stopping power to match the machine's potential for sports-like riding performance.

(1) One-inch handlebars, (2) spoked wheels, (3) foot bars. (4) naked type shaft drive and (5) electric on-tank meter help define the special Drag Star world.