Yamaha XVS 1300 Custom Stryker 2015 — Specifications

How do you judge a machine that seems to have been designed solely to provoke a look? The Yamaha XVS 1300 Custom Stryker, arrived in Europe in 2014, is not simply a version of the Midnight Star. It is a statement, a forceful impact in the world of Japanese customs. With its 1304 cc V-twin engine, it poses a simple question: can you have the attitude of an American chopper without the budget of a Harley?

The heart of the matter is this 60-degree V-twin. Forged, injected, liquid-cooled, it delivers 72 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a torque of 103 Nm from 3000 rpm. The power is just below that of the Midnight Star, but the torque peak arrives earlier, which is more important on this machine. We are not looking for pure speed here, but this constant surge, this impression of available force that brings a smile to your face with every traffic light departure. For a real muscular explosion, you need to look towards larger displacements and much higher prices.

The true signature of the Stryker lies in its proportions. A wheelbase of 1755 mm, a 21-inch front wheel that seems to stretch far ahead, a rake angle of 34 degrees, and this monumental 210 mm wide rear tire. These figures outline a geometry that announces, without ambiguity, a very specific riding style. At low speed, Yamaha promises surprising maneuverability. But with this profile, leaning into corners requires a certain conviction. It is a motorcycle for straight lines and wide turns, not for winding roads.

Its appearance is its first argument. The steel double cradle frame, the 41 mm fork, the single shock absorber, all of this is restrained and functional. The braking system, with two modest discs, is sufficient for its 293 kg when fully fueled. There is little chrome, a lot of metal. It is a custom that assumes its role: to be seen. The seat height of 670 mm and the 15-liter fuel tank confirm this vocation of an urban machine and ostentatious touring.

So, what is the price of a 2015 Yamaha XVS 1300 Custom Stryker? At 10999 euros at its launch, it positioned itself as a serious alternative to American cruisers. It clearly targets the rider who wants a strong presence, reliable mechanics, and a defined chopper style, without entering the game of historic brands. It is a motorcycle for those who prioritize attitude over absolute performance, who accept a particular maneuverability for the benefit of a silhouette that never goes unnoticed. The Stryker is not a motorcycle for everyone, but for those who understand its language, it speaks with a unique voice.