Yamaha has whipped the covers off its new Star Venture in America in a move that sees the firm return to the market for luxury tourers.
These days Honda’s ageing Goldwing is still considered the epitome of extravagant touring bikes, rivalled only by BMW’s K1600GT and arguably a couple of Indian and Harley models. But Yamaha has a long history of seriously luxurious bikes carrying the Venture name. Back in 1983, the original Venture was the first bike to appear with the V4 engine that would later power the V-Max. The name appeared again in 1999 for the Royal Star Venture, another full-fat tourer.
Now there’s a new Venture, which Yamaha lists as a ‘transcontinental tourer’ and looks like a serious rival to the Goldwing.
Unlike the V4 original, the new Star Venture is powered by an 1854cc V-twin. If that capacity rings a bell it’s because it’s the same as the XV1900 cruiser and its derivatives. But the motor has been heavily revamped for the Venture.
While it’s still a 48-degree V-twin with four pushrod-operated valves per cylinder, much has changed. There’s a new six-speed gearbox, multiple riding modes and a ride-by-wire throttle with traction control, plus a new intake set-up. The transmission means that 75mph in top gear equates to only 2750rpm. Cruise control is standard, of course.
There’s a clue to the bike’s level of kit in the fact it’s got not one but two alternators to provide 750W of electrical power. This goes on to feed such toys as an infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display and voice control via a headset. There’s also Bluetooth communications system and even the option of a dual-zone audio set-up allowing the rider and pillion to listen to different sources. USB ports are tucked inside a storage pocket to charge gadgets and allow an interface with the audio system. The touch screen can display a host of information, including trip computer functions and even tyre pressures.
Other electronics include the usual heated grips, seats and backrests, and an unusual electric parking system. This lets the bike be wheeled forwards or backwards under electric power at walking speed to help shuffle its hefty bulk into garages or parking spots. GPS navigation is an option, too, and so is a CB radio as well as SiriusXM satellite radio. These come along with the dual-zone audio in the ‘Transcontinental Option Package’, which also adds LED foglights, an alarm and extra storage pockets.
Rider and passenger comfort should be assured thanks to adjustable backrests and passenger footboards. The fairing has an adjustable screen, electric, of course, and even moveable side flaps to alter airflow.
The chassis is steel, combined with a cast aluminium subframe to centralise the bike’s not-inconsiderable mass. Wet, the bike comes in at a crushing 435kg. A set of fat, 46mm forks supports the front end, along with an 18-inch alloy wheel and 130/70 rubber. At the back there’s a 200/55 16-incher, plus a rising-rate linkage and remote-reservoir shock. Braking is from twin 298mm discs at the front and a single 320mm rear rotor, with ABS and Yamaha’s Unified Brake System that juggles front and rear balance.
In America the bike is going on sale immediately, with prices starting at $24,999, or $26,999 with the Transcontinental Option Package.
