cruiser motorcycles

Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic XVS11T: Specs, Background, Performance & More

Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic XVS11T: Specs, Background, Performance & More

The motorcycle culture in America is thriving and has become more diverse as more riders register their motorcycles every year. There are various factors behind the growing preference for motorcycles.

The ever-increasing oil prices are one of them. Motorcycles are fuel-efficient and budget-friendly. No wonder more people are shifting from four-wheelers to two-wheelers. The low maintenance, customizability, and freedom to escape the stress of the urban lifestyle also contribute to the increasing popularity of motorcycles .

This has led to an overwhelming influx of motorcycles on the market. More and more brands are utilizing the trial and error approach to capitalize on this motorcycle revolution. Therefore, finding a sturdy motorcycle that will fulfill your daily transportation needs and function as a reliable touring partner can be a difficult task.

Also Read: Here's All You Need to Know Before Buying A Cruiser Bike

If you need a bike with sufficient power, excellent riding comfort, and a good fuel economy, then the Yamaha’s V-Star 1100 lineup may have a model that possesses all of these qualities.

That’s why we have dedicated this bike profile to the Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser.

Read this review to gather all the necessary information about the Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser, including its specs, distinct features, price, and aftermarket parts .

Also Read: Top Motorcycle Cruiser Brands to Choose From

1. A Brief History of Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100

Launched in 1999, the Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser garnered much praise for meeting all the requirements of American cruiser enthusiasts. The cruiser was an addition to the V-Star family first introduced as the 650 cc lineup. As always, the engine of these cruisers monopolized the attention of its target audience with its large 1063 cc displacement, chain-driven SOHC configuration, and advanced V-twin arrangement.

Also Read: Yamaha V Star 650 Classic XVS65A: Specs, Background, Performance & More

The engine and clean shaft drive of the 1100 V-Star Classic were borrowed from the Yamaha Virago cruiser’s design. But after tuning, the engine became more apt at producing low-end torque for a long and uninterrupted cruising experience.

With the engine and shaft drive perfected, the engineers affixed an all-new suspension system to an authentic frame to provide an exemplary riding experience for Yamaha fans. After all this hard work, the bikes graced the retail floors and were met with tremendous success.

The Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser did not undergo any more mechanical changes in its 12-year-long-production.

However, Yamaha’s design team experimented with the paint job of the bike, giving the bike a new look almost every year.

Here’s a brief record of color changes of the most sought-after models (2005-2011).

Model Year Price Color
2005 Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser $8,349 Raven
Beach Sand Tan/Raspberry Metallic
Metallic Titanium/ Liquid Silver
2006 Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser $8,599 Metallic Black
Midnight Silver
Dark Red Metallic
2007 Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser $8,899 Raven/Charcoal flames
Metallic Titanium/Liquid Silver
2008 Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser $8,799 Pearl White
Raven with flames
2009 Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser $9,490 Charcoal Silver with flames
Candy Red
2010 Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser Model Not Available in USA Metallic Black
2011 Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star cruiser $9,490 Charcoal Silver with flames
Candy Red

2. Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 at First Glance

Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star Cruiser Styling

The Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star derives its name from its truly classic looks. From classic paints, heavily chromed headlight cover, pullback handlebars, and teardrop fuel tank, everything about this bike screams retro perfection.

The fuel tank features a stylish speedometer with a large face to allow for quick reading. Moreover, the bike looks timeless and expensive with its metal fenders, shiny cast-aluminum wheels, and liberal use of chrome plating.

The use of chrome on the two-into-two exhaust further augments the bike’s aesthetics.

Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star Cruiser Engine

The revised Virago engine is all about performance and impressive amounts of low-end torque. The air-cooled, SOHC 75° V-twin engine boasts a 1063 cc displacement.

The engine produces a maximum torque at 2500 rpm, allowing for a smooth cruising experience.

The engine features forged pistons that are lightweight, durable, and reduce vibrations at average speeds of 65-75 mph. The two-time Mikuni carburetors come with throttle position sensors, an electric fuel pump, and a side-mounted air filter to provide a crisp throttle response, linear power delivery throughout the rpm range and an uninterrupted flow of fuel to the engine. The engine comes to life with a single turn of the ignition. The single overhead cam reduces the excess noise as the engine starts.

To prevent overheating, the engine features ceramic composite, big-bore plating, and cylinder fins. These specs help maintain an optimum temperature for satisfying engine performance and extended longevity.

The two-into-two exhaust system with dual staggered pipes emits a deep rumble that all cruiser enthusiasts love.

Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star Cruiser Handling

Yamaha XVS11T Classic is a middleweight cruiser. Its power-to-weight ratio makes it easier to change the directions and speed of the bike. This improves the overall handling of the bike, making it a beginner-friendly ride. On the other hand, the low-end to mid-range torque and a top speed of 113 mph keep things fun and interesting for experienced riders.

The five-speed transmission and clean shaft drive offer a smooth riding experience. The multi-plate clutch makes gear shifts an easy task.

The suspension system absorbs all impacts when going over a bumpy road so you can enjoy a smooth ride.

Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star Cruiser Wheels

The XVS11T Classic has thick tubeless tires attached to the retro-style aluminum wheels with seven spokes. The front tire of XVS11T Classic is 130 mm wide and the rear tire is 170 mm wide. The tires look stunning, give the bike its commanding profile, and improve the handling and stability of the bike. Thanks to these tires, you don’t have to worry about slippery hazards related to rainy weather.

Just make sure that your tires have the right air pressure and enough grip needed for good traction on wet roads as worn-out tires can be a problem.

Yamaha XVS11T 1100 Classic 1100 V-Star Cruiser Brakes

Strong motorcycle brakes are crucial to inspire confidence in a rider. Hence, the V-Star engineers affixed a 298 mm double front discs and 282 mm rear disc brakes to the XVS11T Classic cruisers. Both front and rear brakes come with a two-piston caliper, are reliable, and offer substantial stopping power.

Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 V-Star Cruiser Comfort

The V-Star 1100 Classic is known for its exceptional riding comfort. This bike has proved that riding pain-free for long hours is possible. The low-slung seat is plush and firm so you don’t feel any back pain. The handle grips are large but they won’t tire your hands because the position of the handlebars and floorboards ensure an ideal stance for long-distance cruising. The only problem is that the floorboards touch the ground when doing tight turns around corners.

3. Yamaha XVS 11T Classic 1100 Motorcycle: A Detailed Guide for Buyers

3.1 What Is the Difference Between the Yamaha XVS11T Classic and 1100 Custom Motorcycles?

The Yamaha XVS11T Classic and 1100 Custom share the same dimensions, technical specifications, and muted tank graphics. But the distinct styles of these bikes set them apart from each other.

The 1100 Classic variant has profound vintage-style features such as cast magnesium wheels, long fenders, roomy floorboards, and a wide front tire. The liberal use of chrome on the Classic variant adds to its old-school charm.

On the other hand, the 1100 Custom variant looks modern with its narrow front tire, shiny aluminum rims, bobbed rear fenders, and naked front fork (with no covers).

3.2 What Is the Top Speed of the Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 Motorcycle?

The Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 motorcycle is powered by a V-twin air-cooled 1063 cc engine and can achieve a top speed of 113 mph.

3.3 How Many Miles Per Gallon Do You Get on the Yamaha XVS1100T Classic 1100 Motorcycle?

The engine of the Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic features two-time Mikuni carburetors for an accurate supply of air and fuel. Due to its carburetion system, the cruiser offers good engine output and an average mileage of 35.8 mpg.

3.4 What Size Is the Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 Motorcycle?

The Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic XVS11T is a mid-sized cruiser. It has an overall length of 96.9 inches, a width of 37.2 inches, and a height of 43.1 inches. The 28.0-inch high seat gives the bike its long and low profile. The cruiser has a curb weight of 628 lbs. Its well-distributed weight makes it stable, easy to handle, and a good entry-level bike that will suit all riders.

3.5 How Much Does a 2011 Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100 Motorcycle Weigh?

Just like all other models of the Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100, the 2011 model weighs 628 lbs on a full tank.

4. Detailed Specifications (Yamaha V Star 1100 Classic XVS11A)

4.1 Dimensions

Ground Clearance 5.5 in
Overall Weight 628 lbs
Length 96.9 in
Width 37.2 in
Height 43.1 in
Wheelbase 64.8 in
Seat 28.0 in high
Fuel Capacity 4.49 gal (reserve 4.5 l)
Trail Length 5.2 in

4.2 Chassis

Body Type Steel Frame - Robust Double Cradle
Tire Size (Front) 130/90-16 M/C 67S
Tire Size (Rear) 170/80-15 M/C 77S
Suspension (Front) 41 mm fork; telescopic
Wheel Travel (Front) 5.5 in
Suspension (Rear) Mono-shock: Swingarm
Preload - spring and adjustable
Wheel Travel (Rear) 4.4 in
Brake Type (Front) 298 mm discs; double
No.of Brake Pistons Front: Two-piston calipers
Brake Type (Rear) 282 mm disc; single
No. of Brake Pistons Rear: Two-piston calipers

4.3 Engine

Engine Type Four-stroke V-type motor
Cooling System Air
Engine Displacement (cc) 1063
Bore Size 95 mm
Stroke 75 mm
No. of Cylinders Two
Compression 8.3:1
Valve Train Chain-driven SOHC, two valves per cylinder
Fuel Induction System Carbureted;
2x Mikuni carburetors - Code: BSR37
Lubrication System Wet crankcase sump

4.4 Performance

Average Fuel Economy of Classic 1100 35.8 mpg
Peak Torque of Classic 1100 85 Nm/2500 rpm
Acceleration 5.33 seconds
Max Speed of Classic 1100 113 miles per hour
Peak Power of Classic 1100 61.5 hp/5750 rpm

4.5 Drivetrain

Clutch System Multi-plated, manual wet clutch
Transmission System Five-speed; driven manually
Drive (Final) Shaft
Reduction (Primary) 1.660
Classic 1100 Gear Ratios
1st Ratio: 2.353
2nd Ratio: 1.667
3rd Ratio: 1.286
4th Ratio: 1.032
5th Ratio: 0.853

4.6 Electrical

Ignition Digital Igniter: Transistor Controlled System
(TCI)
Engine Starter Electric Starter
Battery 12 Volts 12 Ampere hour capacity
Alternator Alternate Current (A.C.) - Magneto

4.7 Others

Colors Charcoal Silver with flames
Candy Red
Base Price $9,490
Warranty 12 months limited warranty

5. Aftermarket Parts & Modification Options for Yamaha XVS11T Classic 1100

Adding a larger, more powerful cruiser to its V-Star lineup was by far the best decision made by Yamaha. Introduced as the 650 cc motorcycle, the V-Star family flourished with the addition of the stunning V-Star 1100 cc motorcycles.

Breathtaking retro looks combined with modern technology and a powerful engine, the XVS11T Classic 1100 motorcycles are able to fulfill all the needs of its riders. From daily commutes to leisurely urban rides, interstate touring, and motorcycle camping trips, these bikes can do it all.

One look at this exquisite traditional cruiser is enough to tempt anyone to customize this bike before going on a camping adventure. One can easily upgrade the motorcycle to suit one’s individual level of comfort and lifestyle needs. This can be done by adding saddlebags, fairings , crash bars , luggage racks , seats , rider and passenger backrests , and sissy bars.

All of these aftermarket parts can be bought online from reliable brands such as Viking Bags at affordable prices.

These add-ons are an investment just like this long-lasting bike. The Yamaha saddlebags will help you carry your belongings not just on long motorcycle trips but also on your commutes to work.

The crash bars can keep you safe from nasty leg injuries that may result from an accident. The seats, sissy bars , and backrests provide excellent riding comfort which is an important factor for an enjoyable cruising experience.

Also Read: Best Motorcycle Luggage Options For Your Camping Trip

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