YAMAHA V-Star 650 Classic (2010-2011) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2011, the Japanese motorcycle maker released the Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic, a middleweight entry-level touring machine that combines retro styling with modern technology.

The Yamaha V-Star 650 Classic debuted in 1998 and was also known as the DragStar 650, XVS650, and XVS650A. At its core, the bike featured a revised version of the Yamaha Virago 535 engine, with a larger stroke and bore for an increased displacement.

The 2011 Classic machine featured the same package as its predecessors, without any significant changes over the years, except for color modifications. The bike packed the same frame as the Custom model but with different features.

Equipped from the factory, the bike packed steel front and rear deeply valanced fenders, a two-piece dual seat with a low seating position, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a pulled-back handlebar, and a two-into-two chromed exhaust system.

For suspension, the bike was fitted with a raked-out 41 mm telescopic fork on the front and a spring preload-adjustable shock absorber on the rear, offering excellent suspension performance and handling capabilities.

The wire-spoke wheels were fitted with a 298 mm disc engaged by a dual-piston caliper on the front and a 200 mm drum unit on the rear, providing robust and reliable stopping power.

The 649cc four-stroke air-cooled V-twin engine was unchanged and still delivered 40 hp with a peak force at 6,500 rpm and 51 Nm (38 lb-ft) torque at 3,000 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission and a final shaft drive converted the power into motion.