The Yamaha family of cruisers stretches all the way from 125 to a massive 1600cc. And one of the nicest of the bunch is the XVS650 Drag Star. The air-cooled V-twin engine pushes out maximum torque at 3000 rpm, making this reliable shaft drive cruiser a real pleasure to ride over short or long distances.
What differentiates the Star models from the Virago range is their long, low chassis which emphasise the cruiser looks, and at 1610mm the middleweight Drag Star runs with one of the longest wheelbases in the class.
The double cradle frame features a rigid-style rear end to give the XVS650 a clean-looking back section. Hidden beneath the rider's seat is a preload adjustable monoshock suspension system that can be easily set up to suit solo or two-up riding simply by removing the seat.
Similar to the system so successfully debuted on the Royal Star, this innovative rigid-style rear end accentuates the Drag Star's cruiser image, yet at the same time offers a smooth, comfortable ride and makes for easy adjustment.
More cruiser influence can be seen at the front end with the heavy duty raked front forks. Sturdy 41mm diameter tubes resist flex for smooth suspension action, and distance between the tubes is taken out to a massive 240mm. With a caster angle of 35 degrees and trail of 153mm, the Drag Star's front end delivers relaxed steering backed up by excellent straight line stability, making this middleweight ideally suited to serious long distance cruising.
In keeping with its cruiser looks the Drag Star is equipped with a classic teardrop tank, which carries a chrome plated speedometer assembly. Holding a generous 16 litres, the tank gives the Drag Star a decent range, underlining its long distance capability.
Running with a 160/90 front tyre and massive 170/80 rear, the chrome-plated wheels are laced with special anti-corrosive spokes and nipples that feature a resin coating, which helps them, retain their showroom appearance. This "Cosmer" coating process is also used on other bolts, brackets and muffler components, which together with the abundance of heavy-duty chrome plating gives the machine an extremely high quality finish.
Power output may be a measly 39.5bhp, but this is a cruiser, not a muscle bike. Chill out and enjoy the ride.
