YAMAHA V-Star 650 Classic (1999-2000) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2000, Yamaha released the V-Star 650 Classic, a cruiser motorcycle part of the V-star series in Yamaha's range that included models with different displacement engines and various shapes and sizes.

The Yamaha V-Star 650 was based on the Yamaha Virago 535's powerplant, with a five mm larger bore and four mm larger stroke, resulting in a 649cc displacement. At first, the bike was sold in two versions, such as the Custom and Classic models, while later, the V-Star Silverado was added.

The V-Star custom came with a lower seat height than the Classic version and with different weights. The Custom came in a 232 kg (511 lbs) package, while the Classic was 15 kg (33 lbs) heavier with an overall weight of 247 kg (545 lbs).

For suspension, the Classic version packed a telescopic fork on the front with 140 mm wheel travel and a single shock absorber with 86 mm wheel travel on the rear, offering smooth handling capabilities.

In the braking department, the bike rolled on wire-spoke wheels with dual-piston calipers, two 298 mm discs mounted on the front wheel, and a 200 mm drum braking unit on the rear, providing optimum stopping power.

In the performance department, the 2000 Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic packed a 649cc four-stroke V-twin air-cooled engine, boasting 40 hp at 6,500 rpm and 51 Nm (37 lb-ft) torque with a maximum peak at 3,000 rpm.