YAMAHA V-Star 950 (2011-2012) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2012, Yamaha launched the V-Star 950, a cruiser machine that debuted in 2009 as an entry-level motorcycle in the cruiser segment. The bike was also known in other markets as the XVS950, XVS950A Midnight Star, and DragStar 950 and was sold in standard and touring versions.

The 2012 machine had a raked-out front fork and was equipped with classic-looking features, such as a pulled-back handlebar, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a single-chromed muffler, and a two-piece dual seat with a low riding position.

In addition to the standard model, the Japanese maker released a touring version with an additional mid-sized windscreen for enhanced wind and weather protection, hard leather-wrapped saddlebags for extra storage, and a pillion backrest for more comfort.

The 2012 Yamaha V-Star 950 was unchanged from previous models and packed the same 942cc air-cooled V-twin engine with 50 hp at 5,600 rpm available at the rider's wrist and 79 Nm (58 lb-ft) torque with a maximum peak at 3,500 rpm.

The bike was built on a double-cradle steel frame that offered ideal rigidity and used the engine as a stressed chassis member. The engine power was delivered to the rear wheel through a five-speed manual transmission and a final belt drive.

The bike's eight-spoke cast aluminum wheels were softened by a 41 mm telescopic fork with 134 mm wheel travel on the front and a spring preload-adjustable shock absorber with 110 mm wheel travel on the rear.