Yamaha DragStar 1100

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Yamaha DragStar 1100

Manufacturer:	Yamaha
Production:	1998 - Current
Class:	Custom
Engine:	1063 cc 4-stroke SOHC V2
Power:	62 hp (45.2 kW) @ 5750 rpm
Torque:	85.00 Nm (8.7 kgf-m or 62.7 ft·lbf) @ 2500 rpm
Length:	2405 mm (94.7 in)
Width:	895 mm (35.2 in)
Wheelbase:	1,640 mm (64.6 in)
Seat Height:	690 mm (27.2 in)
Overall Height:	1095 mm (43.1 in)
Curb weight:	259.0 kg (571.0 lb) dry
Performance:	14.50-second, 90.3 mph (02 Classic)

The Yamaha DragStar 1100, sold as the V-Star 1100 in North America, is a motorcycle manufactured by Yamaha Motor Corporation. It comes in two versions, the XVS1100 and the XVS1100A, the former a more modern style, and the latter a more classic style, with rounder edges. The seat height is slightly lower on the custom.

The DragStar began as the XVS650 in 1998, and grew in 1999 to include the XVS1100 Custom. The 1100 used a reworked version of the venerable Virago 75-degree, air-cooled v-twin which had been in use since the early 1980s. The Star version offered better torque for the new midsize cruiser bike. The Star carried over the shaft-drive layout from the Virago, but relied on a new suspension and frame, discarding the outboard dual shocks and stressed-member engine arrangement of the Virago in favor of a single-shock and twin downtubes. A single Keihin 37 mm carbuerator with throttle-position sensors is used to efficiently meter fuel to the 8.3:1, oversquare engine.

The DragStar/V-Star gathered a huge following early on, which led to the addition in 2000 of the Classic model. As opposed to the Custom's bobbed rear fender, exposed forks, 110 front tire and other custom touches, the Classic had longer, more voluptuous fenders, floorboards, beefy fork covers and a 130 front tire. Later a Silverado model, which included such amenities as a windscreen, sissy bar, soft sidebags and the like, was introduced as an upscale model.

The 1100, along with its 650 sibling, enjoy a huge following around the world. Aftermarket companies produce any number of items to add flair and a custom touch to the model. Over the lifespan of the model, changes have been evolutionary, with only minor updates.