YAMAHA V-Star 650 Custom (2009-2010) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2010, Yamaha launched the V-Star 650 Custom, a chopper-styled middleweight machine that packed an authentic V-twin engine in a low-slung chassis. The classic design was enhanced by many chrome accents and a bobtail fender.

The V-Star 650 was the lightest machine of the V-star family, with excellent handling capabilities and performance. Also, the bike offered a rigid-look rear end with its link-type hidden preload-adjustable shock absorber.

The bike's engine was beautifully chromed and polished on the outside, while on the inside, the engine featured lightweight forged pistons with enhanced durability, delivering power to the rear wheel through a low-maintenance shaft drive.

As for the power figures, the 640cc air-cooled V-twin powerplant boasted 40 hp with a peak force at 6,500 rpm and low-mid 51 Nm (38 lb-ft) of torque at 3,000 rpm. The two Mikuni carburetors with a throttle position sensor offered a smooth throttle response.

A 41 mm telescopic fork on the front with 140 mm wheel travel handled the front suspension, while a spring preload-adjustable hidden shock absorber operated the rear suspension performance.

The bike's stopping power came from a two-piston caliper, a 298 mm disc mounted on the front wheel, and a 200 mm drum braking unit mounted on the rear wheel, delivering optimum braking performance.

The 2010 Yamaha V-Star 650 Custom packed a bullet-style headlight, a locking helmet holder, a locking side cover storage compartment, forward-mounted footpegs for a more relaxed upright riding position, and a removable passenger seat.