2008 Yamaha Roadliner Review

Intro

The 2008 Yamaha Roadliner--also known as the Star Roadliner or XV1900A – represents the third model year of the cruiser that Japanese manufacturer Yamaha introduced in 2006. For the 2008 model year, Yamaha provided two Roadliner models: the Roadliner Midnight and Roadliner S. The manufacturer""s suggested retail prices for the models are $13,880 and $14,980, respectively.

Each 2008 Yamaha Roadliner is powered by a four-stroke air-cooled V-twin (two-cylinder) engine that displaces at 1,854 cubic centimeters and has a 43-millimeter fuel injector. It is paired with a five-speed manual, with an electric starter for convenient ignition. Each 2008 Yamaha Roadliner gets at gas tank with a peak capacity of 4.5 gallons, or 17 liters.

For enhanced stopping power, each 2008 Yamaha Roadliner uses disc brakes: a dual disc at the front and a single one at the back. Yamaha installs an 18-inch aluminum wheel at the front and a 17-inch aluminum wheel at the back; both are wrapped in tubeless tires.

Sporting a Raven color scheme, the 2008 Yamaha Roadliner uses an aluminum frame to keep it relatively lightweight while maintaining sturdiness. Digital instrumentation on each cruiser consists of a clock, tachometer, trip odometer, speedometer, and fuel level warning gauge. A two-piece seat on the bike provides enough room for the driver and a passenger. Also included on each 2008 Roadliner are a halogen headlight and a pair of side mirrors. Customers have the option of installing a rear rack on the S variant.

The 2008 Yamaha Roadliner is 101.6 inches (2,581.6 mm) long, 36.8 inches (934.7 mm) wide and 43.3 inches (1,099.8 mm) high. Its wheelbase is measured at 67.5 inches (1,714.5 mm); and its ground clearance and seat height are measured at 6.1 inches (154.9 mm) and 27.8 inches (706.1 mm), respectively. The dry weight of the 2008 Roadliner is estimated at 705 lbs., or 319 kilograms.

New For 2008

  • This was the third model year of the Yamaha Roadliner; no changes were made.

2008 Yamaha Roadliner Specs

  • Model: Cruiser (2008 Yamaha Roadliner Midnight and 2008 Yamaha Roadliner S)
  • Engine Type: 1,854cc four-stroke air-cooled V-twin (two cylinder)
  • Bore and Stroke (millimeters/inches): 100/3.94 x 118/4.65
  • Compression ratio: 9.5:1
  • Valve Train: Overhead camshaft (OHV) - Pushrod
  • Induction: 43-millimeter fuel injector
  • Ignition: Electric
  • Transmission: Five-speed manual
  • Final Drive: Belt
  • Fuel Capacity (gallons/liters): 4.5/17
  • Estimated Fuel Economy (miles per gallon): N/A
  • Brakes (Front): 11.7-inch/298-millimeter dual hydraulic disc
  • Brakes (Rear): 12.6-inch/320-millimeter disc
  • Suspension (Front): 1.8-inch/46-millimeter telescopic fork
  • Suspension (Rear): Twin-sided aluminum swing arm, with shock absorber
  • Wheelbase (inches/millimeters): 67.5/1714.5
  • Rake: N/A
  • Trail: N/A
  • Seat Height (inches/millimeters): 27.8/706.1
  • Curb Weight (lbs./kg): 705/319.8
  • Tires (Front): Tubeless 130/70-18 on aluminum wheel
  • Tires (Rear): Tubeless 190/60-17 on aluminum wheel

Accessories

  • Short/Medium/Tall Windshield
  • Rear Luggage Rack
  • Saddlebag Guards/Support Bars/Trim Rails
  • Smooth/Slotted Billet Shift Linkage
  • Custom Leather Backrest Pad
  • Billet Passenger Floorboards

Key Competitors For The 2008 Yamaha Roadliner

  • 2008 Victory Vegas
  • 2008 Suzuki Boulevard C109RT
  • 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000
  • 2008 Harley-Davidson Dyna Glide