Yamaha Star Warrior

Specifications
Price: $12,549 Engine: 1670cc, air-cooled, 48-degree V-twin Compression ratio: 8.3:1 Valvetrain: OHV, 4 valves per cylinder Fuel System: EFI	Transmission: 5M Final Drive: Belt Suspension F/R: 41mm inverted forks/single shock, rebound and preload adjustable Suspension Travel F/R: 5.3 in./4.3 in.	Brakes F/R: Dual 298mm discs/282mm disc Tires F/R: 120/70-ZR18/200/50-ZR17 Wheelbase: 65.6 in. Seat Height: 28.7 in. Dry Weight: 613 lb.

The Warrior is lighter and more nimble than the rest of these bruisers. Its riding position is upright and reminiscent of a traditional standard bike’s. No surprise the Warrior is a favorite for both canyon work and the daily commute. The Yamaha builds confidence in its rider. Between its frame rails sits an air-cooled V-twin that rumbles and shakes like a true hot rod—the bike pulsates with every revolution of the crankshaft. And that direct connection to the engine gives this bike a lot of its personality. At the strip, our test bike was handicapped by the fact that it was built mere days before our test and wasn’t yet broken in. But wind the throttle wide and the Yamaha lets out a satisfying bark and leaps off the line. Though this isn’t the sexiest bike here, the Yamaha has a subtlety that appealed to our most seasoned riders. Plus, it’s the least expensive bike of the group. If the cruiser of your dreams has some sportbike DNA, slide a leg over a Warrior and hit your favorite section of snaky two-lane blacktop.