YAMAHA Road Star Midnight (2002-2003) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2002, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer launched the Yamaha Road Star Midnight Star, a motorcycle derived from the standard model. It took it to the next level with even more chromed elements and blacked-out trim.

The Yamaha Road Star Midnight Star was a cruiser machine part of the Road Star family that debuted in 1999 and continued production until 2014, when Yamaha dropped the Road Star line from their range.

The bikes produced from 1999 to 2003 packed a V-twin engine with a 1,602cc displacement. From 2004, Yamaha increased the displacement from 1,602cc to 1,670cc and introduced several modifications, including a lightweight aluminum wheel with tubeless tires, a slimmer belt drive, and a different color for the engine cases.

In 2008, the Road Star family received its second modification, introducing an electronically controlled fuel injection system that provided smoother engine response, better fuel economy, and fewer emissions.

The 2002 Yamaha Road Star Midnight Star came equipped with standard features, such as a large, round headlight with a chromed housing, two passing lights, a pulled-back handlebar, a dual seat, valanced fenders, wire-spoke wheels, and a two-into-two exhaust system.

In the performance department, the bike's power generator was fitted underneath the fuel tank, with 63 hp available at 4,000 rpm and 134 Nm (99 lb-ft) torque at 2,250 rpm.

The bike's smooth riding experience was provided by a 43 mm telescopic fork on the front with 140 mm wheel travel and a horizontally-mounted spring preload-adjustable shock absorber on the rear that offered a hardtail design.