Yamaha V Star 650 Motorcycle Review

The Yamaha V Star 650 is a cruiser-style motorcycle that entered the market in 1997 (model year 1998).

Remaining mostly unchanged through its long run, the V Star 650 has been a popular choice for riders looking for an affordable and reliable bike that doesn’t sacrifice style or comfort.

The V Star 650 has a 649cc engine and is available in several different colors, making it a versatile option for just about any rider.

The V Star 650 has a great balance between power and comfort.

It’s equipped with a 5-speed transmission that offers plenty of power for everyday cruising, but still maintains a relatively low yet strong engine rumble at lower speeds. 

While Yamaha has discontinued the V Star 650, it still remains an ideal bike for beginner riders who specifically wanted to get into motorcycles after dreaming of riding around on a classic looking cruiser.

We’ll take a closer look at the Yamaha V Star 650 and help you find out if it’s the right bike for you.

Yamaha V Star 650 Specs and Features

Key specs for the V Star 650 include:

• Engine: 649cc V-twin air cooled
• Power: 39 horsepower
• Torque: 37.5 pound-feet
• Trims: V Star Classic, V Star Custom, V Star Silverado

The Yamaha V Star 650 features a low-slung seat, allowing riders to sit in a comfortable cruiser position.

The bike has plenty of room for two passengers, and the passenger footrests are adjustable as well.

The motorcycle also has a center stand, allowing riders to take care of routine maintenance without needing to lift it off the ground.

The V Star 650 was available with a variety of accessories designed to customize the look and performance of the motorcycle.

It was also offered with optional touring trunks and windshields for long-distance rides.

Some of these options were included with different trims of the V Star 650.

Cost

Yamaha discontinued the V Star 650 after 2021.

New models of the bike are no longer available, but plenty are available on the used market.

For an idea of what the V Star 650 might be worth, the original MSRP usually started around $6,000. 

Nowadays, you can find used models listed as low as $2,500 and as high as nearly $9,000 on used motorcycle trading sites. 

How Does It Ride?

The V Star 650 is a zippy motorcycle that’s easy to handle for all levels of riders.

It has plenty of power for highway cruising, though it may feel a little sluggish at higher speeds over 75 MPH.

The torque is solid, getting you up to speed quickly and providing good acceleration in the mid-range.

The bike has a comfortable riding position, with plenty of room for two passengers.

The seat is low enough that you’ll be able to touch the ground with both feet while seated, making it a great choice for shorter riders.

The bike handles well at lower speeds and is easy to maneuver in tight spaces. 

Overall, the Yamaha V Star 650 is a great all-around motorcycle that’s ideal for beginner and intermediate riders alike.

It has plenty of features and options available, making it easy to customize your ride to suit your needs.

With reliable performance and an affordable price tag, it’s no wonder the V Star 650 is still a popular choice for motorcycle enthusiasts. 

Who Is This Bike Made For?

The Yamaha V Star 650 is an excellent choice for riders who want a reliable and stylish bike that offers plenty of power.

Its affordability, comfort, and versatility make it a great choice for any rider. 

Many consider the V Star 650 a great entry-level bike for those beginners who have always dreamed about riding around on a cruiser.

It’s not an overwhelming ride, but it’s still more than capable of handling long-distance trips and daily commutes. 

Will Yamaha Bring Back the V Star 650

Unfortunately, Yamaha discontinued the V Star 650 after 2021.

You can still find used models on the market, but there’s no indication that Yamaha will be bringing back this bike any time soon.

Time will tell if Yamaha revisits the V Star 650.