- Table of Contents
- 1. A Brief History of Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300A Midnight Star
- 2. Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300A Midnight Star at First Glance
- 3. Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300A Midnight Star: A Buyer’s Guide
- 3.1 How Fast Is Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star?
- 3.2 How Much Horsepower Does the Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Get?
- 3.3 How Much Does the Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Weigh?
- 3.4 Where Can You Buy a Brand New Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star?
- 3.5 Is Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star a Good Bike?
- 4. Detailed Specifications (Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300A Midnight Star)
- 5. Aftermarket Parts & Modification Options for Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300A Midnight Star
Some people are passionate about riding motorcycles while others are passionate about traveling. But what if you could get the best of both worlds? With Yamaha’s V-Star 1300 XVS1300 Midnight Star, this is a possibility.
Also Read: Thinking of Buying the Best Cruiser Motorcycle for Yourself? Read This
This middleweight cruiser is equipped with a 1304 cc V-twin engine which has impressive cruising power. The low-slung seat, light handlebars, and simple design make it a popular choice for long-distance travel. The bike is add-on friendly, allowing riders to customize it however they see fit. But more on that later.
Let’s discuss the detailed specifications, features, background, and price of the Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300S Midnight Star. Read on to see if this cruiser/tourer bike will be a worthwhile investment for you.
1. A Brief History of Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300A Midnight Star
The Japanese motorcycle company, Yamaha, launched its V-Star 1300 cruiser lineup in 2007. In the debut year, two distinct variants of this bike were available on the market.
- The standard variant: the Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star
- The touring variant: the Yamaha XVS1300CT V-Star Tourer.
Unlike the V-Star 1100 cruisers - discontinued in 2007 - the new middleweight cruiser had a larger engine that displaced 1304 cc, a modern fuel injection system, and a clean belt drive. The standard version was a naked bike, while the touring version was loaded with travel essentials.
Also Read: Yamaha V-Star 1100 Custom: Specs, Background, Performance & More
Also Read: Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic XVS65A: Specs, Background, Performance & More
Over the years, the standard version of the XVS1300A Midnight Star didn’t undergo any major changes. The earlier models were available in black and one other primary color, either red or blue. However, the black paint remained consistent throughout the eight-year-long production run.
Yamaha discontinued the XVS1300A Midnight Star cruiser in 2015 and the XVS1300CT V-Star Tourer in 2017.
2. Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300A Midnight Star at First Glance
Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Styling
The bike owes its popularity to its classic American cruiser looks.
- Paint & Chrome Use
Each year, the bike is covered in lustrous black paint. The shiny chrome accents create a stark contrast against the black paint. Hence, the bike lived up to its name, “the Midnight Star.”
- Streamline Look
The XVS1300A Midnight Star has a stunning, wild, streamlined design with elegant cruiser lines that cascade from the headlight to the rear fender.
- Fuel Tank
The elongated fuel tank complements the bike’s sleek build. It features a well-fitted, unique, aircraft-style cover. The tank can hold approximately 4.89 gallons of fuel, making it suitable for long-distance rides.
- Design Features
The metal fenders, the 1930s-inspired low steel chassis, laidback riding position, large fuel tank, 3D tank logo, and hidden rear suspension create a “hardtail look” that sums up the design profile of this Yamaha model.
Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Instruments
Unlike the smaller members of the V-Star family that came with tank-mounted instruments, the instruments of the XVS1300 Midnight Star are mounted on the handlebars. With this design feature, the riders don’t have to risk looking away from the road and down at their tanks to check their speed. The instrument cluster is compact and comprises a simple analog speedometer and warning lights.
Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Engine
The V-Star XVS1300A’s engine is a 1304 cc liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-twin motor that is powerful, and torquey, but not intimidating. The engine inspires young riders to throw a leg over the bike’s saddle and go for a fun ride. Modern cruisers these days have large heavy engines that make it a challenge to keep the cruiser stable. Thankfully, that is not the case with the V-Star 1300.
- Cylinders
Each engine cylinder has four valves for greater combustion efficiency and larger engine outputs. The cylinders also feature ceramic-composite plating to prevent overheating, reduce oil consumption, and increase engine life.
- Engine Horsepower & Torque
The engine can produce a peak horsepower of 73 hp at 5500 rpm and a peak torque of 106 Nm at 4000 rpm.
- Fuel Injection System
The V-Star 1300 engine has an all-new, efficient fuel injection system. The engines of the V-Star 650 and V-Star 1100 standard motorcycles were carbureted. This upgrade in engine technology offers an excellent fuel economy of 42.3 mpg for a middleweight cruiser. This fuel economy makes it possible to ride for 200 miles straight in between fuel breaks.
- Balancers
The engineers have also added balancers on either side of the engine to reduce any unpleasant vibrations that are generated when cruising for hours at high speeds. You will feel the engine running smoothly beneath you without any harsh vibrations that could cause you to lose control of your speed and balance.
Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Handling
The V-Star XVS1300 is an easy-to-handle bike with exceptional maneuverability.
- Chassis & Five-Speed Transmission
The double-cradle steel chassis is designed artfully and shifts 48% of the bike and rider’s weight towards the front tire for effortless handling. The five-speed transmission has carefully selected gears so that riders get the most out of the engine torque.
- Belt Drive
The clean belt final drive transfers uninterrupted engine power from the transmission system to the rear wheel. The belt drive is low-maintenance, offers a decluttered look, and quicker throttle response.
- Suspension
The front suspension is a 41 mm telescopic fork with stainless steel covers. The rear suspension is a bottom-link type mono-shock with a spring preload adjustment. Both front and rear suspensions are firm, improve the handling of the bike by absorbing bumps on the road, and offer plush wheel travel for a smooth riding experience.
Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Wheels
The V-Star XVS1300’s wheels are a combination of tubeless tires and seven-spoke aluminum rims. The 130/90 x 16 front tire and the 170/70B x 16 rear tire are durable and offer reliable grip. The V-Star XVS1300 wheels greatly contribute to the touring ability of this bike. These are resilient and can perform well on rough, wet, muddy, and uneven roads.
Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Brakes
The V-Star XVS1300A has strong front and rear brakes that offer consistent stopping power with a single press of the brake handle. The riders can enjoy thrilling speeds on open highways thanks to the reliable triple-disc brakes. The 298mm double disc at the front comes with two-piston calipers and the 298mm single disc at the rear features a single-piston caliper. Both brakes work in perfect sync to quickly bring the bike to a halt when needed.
Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Riding Comfort
The gorgeous leather-textured “dish” shaped seat is a distinct feature of the V-Star XVS1300, designed specifically to provide high levels of comfort. Tall, short, or average riders have no trouble reaching the ground as the seat is only 28.1 in high. The pullback handlebars are fixed just above the raked-out front fork to provide a relaxed riding stance. The bike is equipped with spacious floorboards for better comfort.
3. Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300A Midnight Star: A Buyer’s Guide
3.1 How Fast Is the Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star?
The Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight can achieve a top speed of 105 mph.
3.2 How Much Horsepower Does the Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Get?
The fuel-injected engine of the Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star generates a maximum horsepower of 73.0 hp at 5500 rpm.
3.3 How Much Does the Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star Weigh?
The Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star is a middleweight cruiser. The bike has a dry weight of 624 lbs, while it weighs approximately 668 lbs with a full tank.
3.4 Where Can You Buy a Brand New Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star?
Yamaha discontinued the production of the V-Star 1300 XVS1300A Midnight Star cruisers in 2015. Unfortunately, buying a brand new motorcycle is no longer a possibility. However, if you are keen on buying this particular bike, then you can always find a good deal in the second-hand market.
3.5 Is Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star a Good Bike?
The Yamaha V-Star XVS1300A Midnight Star is a classic cruiser with traditional styling and an engine that displaces 1304 cc. The bike is fuel-injected and offers a great fuel economy. The five-speed transmission, belt drive, and multi-plate clutch make for an efficient drivetrain and a comfortable riding experience. Weighing 668 lbs on a full tank, the bike has an ideal power-to-weight ratio thanks to its lightweight engine. The ideal seating position, link-style suspensions, and strong brakes make it the perfect urban ride for all bike enthusiasts.
4. Detailed Specifications (Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300A Midnight Star)
4.1 Dimensions
| Length | 98.0 in |
| Width | 38.6 in |
| Height | 43.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 66.5 in |
| Ground Clearance | 5.7 in |
| Seat Height | 28.1 in |
| Dry Weight | 624 lbs |
| Curb Weight | 668 lbs |
| Trail | 5.71 in |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.89 gal (reserve 3.7 l) |
| Fuel Economy | 42.3 mpg |
4.2 Chassis
| Type | Double cradle steel |
| Front Suspension, travel | Telescopic fork, 41 mm, 5.31 inches of wheel travel |
| Rear Suspension, travel | Swingarm link suspension with mono-shock, spring preload adjustment, 4.33 inches of wheel travel |
| Front Tire Size | 130/90-16 M/C 67H |
| Rear Tire Size | 170/70B-16 M/C 75H |
| Front Brake | Double disc, 298 mm, two-piston caliper |
| Rear Brake | Single disc, 298 mm, one-piston caliper |
4.3 Engine
| Type | Four-stroke, liquid-cooled |
| Bore & Stroke | 100.0 x 83.0 mm |
| Displacement | 1304 cc |
| Cylinder arrangement | Two-cylinders, V-type |
| Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Valve Train | Chain-driven SOHC, four valves per cylinder |
| Fuel System/ Induction | Fuel injection 2x Mikuni ACW40 |
| Lubrication | Wet sump |
4.4 Performance
| Maximum Power | 73.0 hp at 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 106.0 Nm at 4000 rpm |
| Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0-60 mph) | 5.14 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph |
4.5 Drivetrain
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate, cable-operated |
| Transmission | Manual, five-speed |
| Final Drive | Belt |
| Primary Reduction | 1.556 |
| Gear Ratio 1st | 2.769 |
| Gear Ratio 2nd | 1.778 |
| Gear Ratio 3rd | 1.381 |
| Gear Ratio 4th | 1.115 |
| Gear Ratio 5th | 0.960 |
4.6 Electrical
| Ignition | TCI (digital) |
| Battery Capacity | 12V-18Ah |
| Alternator | A.C. magneto, 460W at 5000 rpm |
| Starter | Electric |
4.7 Others
| Colors | Midnight Black |
| Base Price | $11,290 |
| Warranty | 12 months limited warranty |
5. Aftermarket Parts & Modification Options for Yamaha V-Star 1300 Classic XVS1300A Midnight Star
The Yamaha XVS1300A Midnight Star is an awesome bike with a traditional look. Most people find these looks too boring or old-school for their liking. Moreover, when they hit the highways for an adventure and meet other bikers riding the latest stylish models, this bike seems outdated and old-fashioned in comparison.
Also Read: 6 Best Motorcycle Trip Planner Apps for Adventure Touring
The fact that the bikes didn’t undergo any major aesthetic changes doesn’t help matters. The black color scheme perpetuated throughout its production. Therefore, the element of excitement becomes almost nonexistent when the riders ended up buying similar-looking models from the second-hand market with no hope of a brand-new, exciting paint scheme. Although riders love this bike for its performance, they are often dissatisfied with the limited color schemes. Sure, they can get a new paint job, but doing so can be quite expensive.
Fortunately, there is an affordable way to make this bike more appealing. A few good-quality aftermarket parts are all you need to get the job done. There is a reason that the trend of customizing motorcycles is growing rapidly in the motorcycle community. It allows riders to create something unique out of typical factory stock. You can modify your bike to add a personal touch and so it can suit your needs.
For a modern look, add stylish saddlebags, luggage racks, fairings, crash bars, sissy bars, and rider or passenger backrests. Purposeful and contemporary, these accessories will make your bike look cool in a “typical biker fashion.”
And they are a good investment since each part plays an important role in improving your riding experience.
With a pair of saddlebags on board, you can travel long distances while carrying your belongings. Pack your essentials, fire up the engine on your bike, and explore the beautiful coasts or ride up the daunting mountains.
Don’t worry about the fatigue of long hauls. Well-cushioned custom seats, rider and passenger backrests, and sissy bars will allow you and your passenger to enjoy the roads and scenery as you head towards your destination in comfort.
Installing a fairing is a great way to ensure wind protection, give the bike a modish sporty look, and add a hint of color to the bike.
Suffice to say, with the possibility of custom parts being nearly endless, you can have a lot of fun with your motorcycle modification project.
Also Read: How to Equip Your Bagger Motorcycle for Tours
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