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

In 2012, in addition to the standard model, the Japanese maker released the Yamaha V-Star 950 Tourer, a more touring-oriented machine that debuted in 2009. The Tourer version was identical to the standard model except for the additional touring amenities.

The 2012 Yamaha V-Star 950 Tourer featured additional features, including a passenger backrest for increased comfort, hard leather-wrapped saddlebags for extra storage, and a mid-sized windscreen with better wind and weather protection.

Besides its touring features, the Tourer came in the same packages as the standard models, packing a pulled-back handlebar and a two-piece dual seat with a low profile for a more relaxed upright riding position, a two-into-one exhaust system with a distinctive V-twin sound, and eight twin-spoke cast aluminum wheels.

The double-cradle steel frame packed a 942cc air-cooled V-twin engine as a stressed chassis member, with 50 hp at 5,600 rpm and 79 Nm (58 lb-ft) torque at 3,500 rpm. The bike was able to move thanks to a five-speed manual transmission and a final belt drive.

For suspension, the bike was equipped with a 41 mm telescopic fork on the front with 134 mm wheel travel and a spring preload-adjustable shock absorber on the rear with 110 mm wheel travel, offering excellent handling capabilities.

As for braking power, the 2012 Yamaha V-Star 950 Tourer was stopped by a dual-piston caliper with a 320 mm disc on the front wheel and a single-piston caliper with a 298 mm disc mounted on the rear wheel.