devon

134 months ago

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Yamaha's Star Motorcycles All New 2014 Bolt

Two days ago Star Motorcycles, Yamaha's cruiser brand, revealed their new motorcycle, the Bolt. EatSleepRIDE editorial predicted it would be a bobber and Star Motorcycles delivered that and more. If there was every any doubt in the ESR editorial staff, you are free to abolish it now.

The Bolt's simplistic appearance and "Less is more" slogan confirm practicality is now praised Nothing excessive, like chrome for instance, distracts the eye from the small tank, air-cooled V-Twin engine, double cradle frame and fenders. The 2014 Bolt and Bolt R-Spec are both powered by a 60 degree 942cc mill, clearly borrowed from the V Star 950 but the Bolt benefits from selective fuel injection and ignition timing maps. The fuel tank is a concerning 3.2 gallons considering the larger V Star 950 has a 4.5 gallon tank. Star is relying on the 3D timing maps to garner mileage in the vicinity of 50mpg. The Bolt is slim and light, weighing in at 540lbs allowing the rider to stay nibble in urban areas and make use of the mill's low to midrange torque.

Maintaining the minimalist theme, the Bolt comes in white, or black. The R-Spec is available in matte grey or spices it up with army green with black fenders. Both models sport modern components that contrast the bobber heritage such as a digital speedometer and LED tail light. The R-Spec trim includes a higher quality paint, different graphics, a suede-style seat, remote reservoir suspension, and the infamous overpriced coloured stitching. Neither model has ABS available, which is a surprising oversight for Yamaha considering the segment the Bolt is clearly aimed towards. Conversely, the absence of ABS keeps both Bolt models competitively priced.

More than a foray into the new rider segment, Bolt is a direct attack at the Harley Davidson Sportster and Street Bob community and shows Yamaha's confidence as a brand. The Bolt as a motorcycle is not concerned with anything, just the basics, which is essence of being 'cool' and is the perfect base for a custom bike. Of course Yamaha wants to keep money in the family so a line of custom accessories is in the works that will provide the rider with the option to keep the Bolt raw and rugged or turn it into a weekend warrior's tourer. Yamaha is clearly confident in Star Motorcycles, and in the cruiser market.

The Bolt will be at dealerships in April and retail for $7,990. Riders interested in the sexier Bolt R-Spec will have to fork over $8,290 and have to wait until July when it becomes available. If you can wait, go for the Bolt R-Spec if only for the piggyback reservoirs alone.

Bolt- Bolt R-Spec by Star Motorcycles

Bolt- Bolt R-Spec by Star Motorcycles

Bolt by Star Motorcycles V Twin

Bolt by Star Motorcycles V Twin

Bolt by Star Motorcycles - Profile

Bolt by Star Motorcycles - Profile

Bolt by Star Motorcycles - Action

Bolt by Star Motorcycles - Action

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devon

134 months ago

I agree with you but I suppose its a simple name for a simple bike. Lest we forget, "less is more".

JamesL

134 months ago

Hmmmm, Looks Good. Not sure about the name, Star Bolt, Star Motorcycle Bolt, Yamaha Star Bolt ehhh