Yamaha XV 950 R (Bolt) 2020 — Specifications

Japanese customs have often been criticized for their sterile perfection, too smooth to compete with the rugged soul of a Harley. But what happens when Yamaha decides to ease up and inject a dose of raw character into a proven platform? The answer is the Yamaha XV 950 R Bolt, a bobber stripped down to the essentials that represents a small revolution in the mid-cylinder landscape.

What immediately strikes you is its clear positioning: to aim straight for the heart of the Sportster 883 market, but with the efficiency and price control typical of the Japanese. For around €9700, you inherit a stripped-down, almost bare-bones engine, where every detail seems designed for immediate pleasure. The engine is the centerpiece of this philosophy. This 942 cm3 V-twin, cousin to that of the Midnight Star but seriously reworked, displays honest figures without being excessive: 52 horsepower at 5500 rpm and, above all, a torque of 79.4 Nm available from 3000 rpm. The real difference lies in its mounting. Rigidly mounted in a steel double cradle frame and without a balancer, it transmits its vibrations with uninhibited frankness. It’s far from the usual smoothness; it’s a living engine that recalls, without equaling it, the charming ruggedness of American twins.

The R version, now the only one in the catalog, provides the necessary adjustments for everyday use. Cartridge-style shock absorbers separate comfort from enjoyment, braking benefits from standard ABS, and the suede-effect seat adds a touch of authenticity. With a wet weight of 251 kg and a seat height of 69 cm, handling is accessible, even for a custom novice. The 12-liter tank and 5-speed transmission by belt define a rather urban and touring profile, capable of top speeds of 170 km/h without ever straining its lines.

Faced with increasingly rare competition in this category, the Yamaha XV 950 R Bolt finds its place thanks to its affirmed character. It doesn’t seek to be the most powerful or the most comfortable, but perhaps the most playful and customizable. It’s a machine for those who want a custom with a rebellious spirit without the mechanical hassles of an old bike, and who sees a used Yamaha XV 950 R Bolt as an ideal base for custom projects. A little troublemaker who proves that a motorcycle’s soul is not measured only by its displacement.