2013 Yamaha Roadliner Review

The Roadliner S is the biggest V-twin engine cruiser model produced by Yamaha’s Star Motorcycle imprint. First introduced in 2006, the Yamaha Roadliner S is a bold, beefy cruiser that’s decked out in chrome and curves. While the vehicle seems to take its cues from retro models, the Roadliner S is a thoroughly modern machine that’s appointed with many of the latest comforts and accessories. The bike’s neo-streamliner appearance and the excellent attention to detail shown by the manufacturer all but ensure that the Roadliner S will turn heads wherever it goes. Far from being all show and no go, the Yamaha Roadliner S comes equipped with a beast of an engine. The 2013 Yamaha Roadliner S features a neo-streamline design that lends it a unique look. Many components on the 2013 Roadliner are chrome including the switchgear, front brake and clutch master cylinders and levers, belt guard, fork and fork covers, handlebar clamps, shifter, front pully cover, engine covers, and rear fender stay. The 2013 Roadliner S features an aluminum frame that’s long and low. This not only lends to the Roadliner’s attractive looks, it also facilitates handling that’s lighter than what you’d expect from a full-size cruiser. The 2013 Yamaha Roadliner S features a sculpted seat that helps improve comfort, even on long range cruises. Visibility is excellent, thanks to position beams housed within the main headlight assembly. The Roadliner’s instrumentation is classic clock-style to enhance its neo-retro looks. Instrumentation includes an analog speedometer, tachometer and fuel gauge, twin digital trip meters, and an odometer. A bright multi-reflector headlight and LED taillight further enhance the Roadliner’s custom look, as do its amber turn signals housed behind clear lenses.

The 2013 Yamaha Roadliner S is powered by a robust 113-cubic-inch (1854cc) air-cooled, pushrod V-twin engine that produces impressive thrust whether you’re going fast or slow. The Roadliner’s engine not only endows the bike with impressive performance capabilities, it also enhances its appearance. Engine efficiency and throttle response are optimized thanks to a twin-bore downdraft electronic fuel-injection system. The engine’s four pushrod activated valves and two spark plugs per cylinder further optimize combustion efficiency. The engine’s cylinders are plated with ceramic composite while oil jets cool its forged pistons. These features help facilitate reliability and engine longevity. A computer controls the twin-bore fuel injection system that also monitors engine parameters in order to calculate a mixture that will be ideal for all temperatures and riding conditions. Torque is further boosted by the Exhaust Ultimate Power valve (EXUP®) that’s contained in the Roadliner’s two-into-one exhaust system. The engine’s distinct, jewel-like appearance is due to custom machining of the cooling fin edge.

The 2013 Yamaha Roadliner S is constructed on a light, rigid aluminum frame. Thanks to a minimum number of welds, the bike has a look that’s smooth and clean. The bike’s streamlined style is further complemented by a Controlled-Fill die-cast swingarm that also enhances handling. The 46mm fork tubes improve ride quality and appearance, while the single shock is equipped with adjustable spring preload to facilitate a ride that’s smooth under a variety of different weight loads. The Roadliner S’s switchgear is concealed on the inside of its thick, chromed 1.25-inch handlebars. The bike comes equipped with a flangeless, teardrop fuel tank with a 4.5-gallon capacity. The Roadliner’s 12-spoke wheels evoke the classic thick spoke look and grip is maintained by modern tubeless radial tires. The front brake master cylinder has an integrated lever that operates its dual 298mm front discs, which are squeezed by strong monoblock calipers. This results in stopping power that is excellent. Engine power is driven to the rear wheel smoothly and efficiently by a strong-and-light belt final drive. The adjustable heel/toe shifter and floating floorboards further facilitate a ride that’s comfortable and demands little effort from the rider.