Yamaha XVZ 1300 A Royal Star 2001 — Specifications

It’s impossible to discuss the Royal Star without first mentioning its atypical heart. While the custom landscape was dominated by rumbling V-Twins, Yamaha dared to graft on a 1294 cm3 V4 engine, a noble mechanical heritage inherited from the legendary V-Max and the touring Venture. But here, everything is subdued: 74 horsepower at 4750 rpm, modest for the displacement, and the engine prefers to deliver its torque of 112 Nm from 3500 rpm with the suppleness of a locomotive. It’s far from the kick in the back of the Max; the character is more civilized, almost muted. For those seeking a sharp jolt, the Wild Star 1600 and its large twin would be a more obvious choice.

Visually, the machine fully embraces its status as a custom liner. With its 330 kg when fully fueled and its sparkling chrome, it commands respect on the road. The finish is meticulous, the design faithful to the aesthetic canons of American cruisers, and the 710 mm seat offers an accessible riding position despite the size. It’s a motorcycle made to shine in the city or devour national roads in one go, with an 18-liter tank that invites stress-free journeys. The double cradle frame and the suspended engine provide reassuring stability, while the shaft drive guarantees minimal maintenance.

But don't be fooled, the Royal Star is not a sports bike in disguise. As soon as you try to increase the pace a bit, the large footpegs scrape the pavement, authoritatively reminding you of the limits of the lean angle. The braking system, with its double disc at the front and single at the rear, lacks bite to stop this mass serenely in tense situations. This is the Achilles' heel of this custom liner, a point to accept in order to enjoy its qualities.

Ultimately, who is the Yamaha XVZ 1300 Royal Star for? The experienced rider seeking a comfortable and unique custom, prioritizing peaceful journeys over dynamic exploits. It’s a motorcycle with character, offering a feeling of presence and rare mechanical refinement in the segment. At the time, its price was around 11,700 euros, a worthwhile investment for enlightened enthusiasts. Today, on the used market, it represents a charismatic and robust alternative to Harley-Davidson or Honda Valkyrie, for those who want to go off the beaten path without sacrificing the comfort of a true large touring motorcycle.