Yamaha XVS1300A Midnight Star 2012 — Specifications

Who, looking at this massive and low silhouette, could imagine that the 2012 Yamaha XVS1300A Midnight Star is actually a modern machine beneath its old crooner attire? That's where its secret lies. Yamaha buried the Dragstar generation to launch this new Midnight Star family, with the 1900 as the locomotive and this 1300 as a more accessible entry point. But accessible doesn't mean simple: beneath this classic look lies a four-valve-per-cylinder V2 engine, water-cooled and fuel-injected, a revolution for Yamaha in the cruiser field.

The engine, a 1304 cc unit producing 73 horsepower and, above all, a torque of 106 Nm available from 4000 rpm, is the soul of this machine. Yamaha has filtered vibrations with a double balancer, and even slipped roller rocker arms for the valves, a rare technology on a custom. They have also cleverly hidden the radiators for liquid cooling, giving this 60° V-twin the appearance of an old air-cooled engine. The sound promises deep notes, but Euro 3 standards have undoubtedly silenced the song; we will have to settle for the mechanical pulse.

The Yamaha XVS1300A Midnight Star sits on a double cradle frame that uses the engine block as a structural element, a classic but effective choice. The braking system, with its single disc at the front and rear, may seem minimalist for a 303 kg motorcycle fully fueled, but Yamaha introduced its Unified Brake System in 2011, which coordinates the action of the two brakes via the rear pedal. A welcome aid for this giant weighing close to 300 kg. The rear suspension is hidden under the chassis, and the low seat at 715 mm invites riders of all sizes.

Compared to a Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 or a Honda VT1300 Shadow, the Midnight Star stands out with its more advanced technical approach. It offers less raw power than some, but its torque is well-placed and its mechanical refinement is superior. Its weight, however, is a real handicap for maneuverability, especially in the city. With a fuel tank of only 18.5 liters and a top speed of around 180 km/h, it is not a machine for long journeys or speeding, but rather for stylish rides.

This motorcycle clearly targets the rider who wants a custom with a classic aesthetic, but without the drawbacks of archaic mechanics. It is ideal for the beginner or intermediate rider attracted to the cruiser style, but who is looking for a bit of modernity and reliability. The price of €9,999 places it in the middle of the segment, but it then offers a unique package: the look of an American with Japanese engineering. A compromise that can be appealing, provided you accept its weight and relative frugality in terms of ultimate performance. The Midnight Star is not a revolution, but an intelligent evolution in a world where the custom is modernizing in small steps.