YAMAHA V-Star 650 Custom (2004-2005) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2005, the Japanese maker released the Yamaha V-Star 650 Custom, a middleweight cruiser motorcycle part of the V-star family that comprised several models with different appearances and engine displacements.

The 2005 machine brought several improvements, including a new speedometer face, clear turn signals lenses, new 3D side cover emblems, and a special blacked-out version with black paint and distinctive trim enhancing its unbeatable styling.

The bike was offered in three different versions: Classic, Custom, and Silverado. The custom version was the base of long-distance touting, wearing plastic front and rear fenders and a recessed taillight mounted under the rear fender.

The Silverado model was a more touring-oriented machine equipped with touring accessories, such as a tall windscreen that offered enhanced wind and weather protection, side leather saddlebags for extra storage, and a passenger backrest for more comfort.

The Classic model came with the same frame as the Custom version, featuring a wider front wheel, steel fenders instead of plastic, an extended bodywork, a drag-style handlebar, a wider seat, and fewer chromed elements.

For suspension, the bike packed a 41 mm telescopic fork on the front and a single shock on the rear. For braking performance, the bike packed a 298 mm disc with a hydraulic caliper on the front and a 200 mm drum unit on the rear.

At its core, the 2005 Yamaha V-Star 650 Custom had a 649cc air-cooled V-twin unit with 40 hp on tap at 6,500 rpm and 51 Nm (38 lb-ft) torque at low 3,000 rpm.