"XV1600 Road Star" with largest-ever 1,600 cc V-twin engine and the "Royal Star Venture" deluxe tourer -Two '99 models to be released at U.S. Dealer Meeting

At the U.S. Dealer Meeting to be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 27, Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. and its U.S. subsidiary Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A. will release two new North American market Yamaha models, the "XV1600 Road Star" powered by a 1,600 cc air-cooled V-twin OHV engine and the "Royal Star Venture" with a 1,300 cc V4 engine. Also introduced at the same time will be the sister model "XV1600 Road Star Silverado" with a windshield and leather saddlebags.

The new model "XV1600 Road Star" boasts the largest displacement ever on a mass-production model with a 1,600 cc air-cooled 4-stroke V-twin OHV engine that delivers the exciting pulse sensation of a big-displacement engine.
As for the "Royal Star Venture," it is a model that has been developed to take the long-touring functions of Yamaha's flagship American style model, the "XVZ1300 Royal Star" one step further in our pursuit of the ultimate in "long-distance cruising comfort." It is powered by a liquid-cooled 4-stroke V4 1,300 cc engine. The release of these two models extends the lineup of Yamaha's American-style "Star Series" which already includes the "XVS1100 Drag Star (V-Star in the U.S.)" and "XVS400/650 Drag Star (V-Star in the U.S.)" and the "XVZ1300 Royal Star."

Air-cooled 4-stroke V-twin 1,600 cc engine with dynamic pulse
For this model Yamaha has designed an air-cooled, 4-stroke, OHV 4-valve, V-twin, 1,600 cc engine, the largest displacement ever for a mass-production motorcycle. As one of the characteristics of a large-displacement engine, there was a great deal of design freedom in shaping the combustion chambers, and a highly reliable OHV system was adopted.
A high level of reliability was also ensured by the adoption of features on this engine like plated cylinders and forged pistons, while adoption of a rigid engine mount method provides a well-tuned balance of pulse sensation and comfort. The combined effect of other factors like the deep, crisp sound produced by the large muffler, the 5-speed transmission and the belt drive system with its excellent durability and shock absorbing qualities, make this model a true joy to ride on the freeway.

Outstanding chassis rigidity
The frame adopted on this model is a double cradle type. Designed in such a way as to decrease the number of weld points so they are less visible, it contributes to the exterior's quality appearance. Also, to further improve rigidity the engine head is fixed to the frame.

Other features
Other significant features include (1) a flangeless fuel tank manufactured by a unique Yamaha method, (2) an extra thin speedometer located on a fuel tank, (3) one-inch handlebars, (4) main switch with built-in handle lock and seat lock, (5) new-design spoke wheels, (6) foot boards, and (7) link type suspension.

The "Royal Star Venture" is a model developed around the concept of a long distance tandem tourer to provide ultimate cruising luxury on cross-country trips. It offers a high-level blend of the qualities of running performance, comfort, convenience and carrying capacity owners want in a long distance touring machine.

Liquid-cooled V4 engine with outstanding acceleration and pulse sensation
This model's engine takes as its base the liquid-cooled 4-stroke, DOHC 4-valve V4 engine that has won high acclaim on the "XVZ1300 Royal Star" and changes certain specifications to better satisfy the needs of a long-distance tourer. Making changes such as (1) adopting a larger caliber carburetor (28 R 32 mm), (2) increasing air cleaner volume and (3) revising the gear ratios (final reduction ratio), have created superior features like passing acceleration performance and engine pulse characteristics. (Characteristics of the base model "Royal Star" include "outstanding traction performance" and "power that doesn't quit.")

Chassis performance for pleasurable riding when fully loaded
The frame adopted on this model is a rigid type double cradle frame. Compared to the XVZ1300 Royal Star, this model adopts a more rigid engine mount system, resulting in higher overall chassis rigidity. This helps achieve outstanding running performance and stability in tandem riding or riding with heavy loads.
As for the styling, while adopting the basic profile of the Royal Star a handlebar mounted front fairing, larger fuel tank and large bucket-type seat give this model its own distinct modern classic image to the exterior styling.

Comfort features
To achieve excellent wind protection while running, (1) an extra large upper cowl and (2) an under cowl have been adopted. Also, to achieve extra comfort in tandem riding, (3) a large bucket-type seat and (4) a rear seat with backrest has been added. Furthermore, both the front and rear suspensions have been fitted with an air-assist system to smooth out the smaller bumps in the road surface for a more comfortable ride.

Full touring performance features
Plenty of storage space is provided by (1) a 57-liter capacity rear trunk and (2) the right and left 35-liter capacity saddlebags that come as standard equipment. Also, greater convenience and enjoyment in long-distance touring is assured by features like (3) a cassette stereo, (4) a CB radio, (5) a cruise control system, etc., as well as (6) a standard equipment DC outlet.

Specifications are subject to change without notice, in accordance with national regulations and legislations.