2018 Yamaha Star Venture is claimed to have the exhaust tuned by the brand’s music division for creating a “throaty V-twin engine note”
Yamaha Motor Corp. has just moved into the territory dominated by Harley-Davidson with an all-new machine targeting touring enthusiasts. Claimed to “redefine the luxury touring motorcycle market”, the Star Venture is a massive 1,850 cc air-cooled tourer – producing 165 Nm of peak torque – created for long distance touring while keeping the rider and pillion comfortable along the journey.
With profound rider protection and plethora of storage facilities, the Star Venture is equipped with advanced technologies on the riding front. Chief among the exclusive features are Sure Park system that simplifies forward and reverse gearing into and out of parking according to Yamaha and riding modes adjusting traction control and throttle response.
Other techs deal with riding pleasure and safety as a predominant factor. The high-end touring segment is not an entirely new subject of Yamaha’s involvement. The Japanese auto major sells the FJR1300 supersport touring motorcycle in foreign markets already and what is called as a casual full dress bagger, the V Star 1300 Deluxe.
In fact, there had been an early Venture in the 1980s. With Indian Motorcycle becoming a significant rival to the fellow American brand Harley-Davidson, Yamaha sees a good deal of opportunity with the new Star Venture as it is a fully-faired motorcycle clearly trying to lure customers in the sharp end of the pricier scale.
The cruise control system is standardised along with grip warmers, an influential top bag which can store two helmets, hard-sided saddle bags, on-board infotainment system, class-leading fuel tank capacity and there is a 113 inch engine making the Star Venture a real competitor to the Road Glide Ultra and the Indian Roadmaster.
Both are present in India, making the Star Venture a probable entrant in the near future. At $24,999 (around Rs. 16 lakh) for entry-level versions, it’s two grand cheaper than its American rivals too. Up for deliveries in the US from August, it will be offered in Granite Gray and Raspberry Metallic.
The storage between side bags, fairing cubbies and top case equates to 142 litres. The adjustable rider and passenger seats and their back rests are heated with adjustable floorboards for added convenience. It comprises of a massive seven-inch infotainment display and using the screen or handlebar controls or via voice command, the rider can toggle through the menu options.
Yamaha says the exhaust unit of the twin-engine was created in association with the brand’s music division for ensuring throaty V-twin note. The American bagger market will only get tighter soon as BMW is coming up with a 2018 K 1600 B and a big touring bike. With BMW Motorrad having entered India lately, we can expect more premium bikes and of course high-end baggers for the premium customers.
2018 Yamaha Star Venture Images
