2011 Yamaha Raider Review

Intro

The 2011 Yamaha Raider is a cruiser style motorcycle and sold in a Raider Base sub-model and a higher level Raider S sub-model. The chopper-inspired, custom cruiser is actually sold as the 2011 Star Motorcycles Raider. In 1994, Yamaha created Star Motorcycles as a standalone brand in order to design and develop cruiser styled motorcycles for the world’s largest cruiser market: North America. Although a separate brand, Star cruisers are sold in Yamaha dealerships and are branded Yamaha in foreign markets. In 2006, the Star brand became its own entity with Yamaha producing and distributing Star motorcycles. Located in Cypress, California, Star Motorcycles is operated out of the Yamaha Motor Corporation, but is entirely independent for designing, marketing, and creating some of the best custom cruisers made.

The 2011 Star Raider and the 2011 Star Raider S contain the largest Yamaha V-twin engines made. Aside from a 0.1-pound weight difference, Star distinguishes sub-models through looks rather than performance and mechanical differences. The 2011 Yamaha Raider sports entirely blacked-out metal. The 2011 Yamaha Raider S wears shinier metal with chrome plating on nearly every imaginable metal component. To prove itself a serious contender in the custom cruiser segment, Star Motorcycles offers 39 different accessories with which to customize a 2011 Raider cycle. That’s good news for anyone wanting a custom-built bike but who would rather twist a throttle than turn a wrench. Its 133-cubic inch, fuel injected, V-twin engine plays second strings to no other V-twin, providing incredibly smooth power and world-class reliability. The chopper-inspired Star Raider is truly a breed of bike which stands apart from other cruisers. Attention to detail and quality finishes wrap the entire motorcycle with custom inspired parts. The 2011 Yamaha Raider sports a stretched out fork, a thick rear tire, and a low seating position, all of which not only makes it look ace but also provides an excellent riding experience. And don’t forgot all that shiny chrome on the 2011 Star Raider S which effectively reflects a regal light off its well-proportioned body, while the rider sits in a low-slung, aggressive throne.

While chopper-inspired, a top-notch suspension along with a solid chassis offer superior handling not found on most choppers. Whether blacked-out or chromed up, the 2011 Yamaha Raider will satisfy any buyer’s desire for an off-the-shelf custom cruiser with excellent handling, looks, and reliability.

New For 2011

  • Yamaha trims down the four Raider submodels sold in 2010 into two submodels for 2011.
  • Raider only available in Reddish Copper color.
  • Raider S is available in Glacier Blue and Raven colors.

2011 Yamaha Raider Specs

  • Model: Raider; Raider S
  • Engine Type: 1854cc V-twin
  • Bore and Stroke: 3.9 inches x 4.6 inches
  • Compression ratio: 9.5:1
  • Valve Train: OHV – Pushrod
  • Induction: Fuel injected
  • Ignition: Electric
  • Transmission: Five-speed manual
  • Final Drive: Belt
  • Fuel Capacity: 4.2 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: 42 mpg
  • Brakes (Front): Dual hydraulic, 11.7-inch discs
  • Brakes (Rear): Hydraulic, 12.2-inch disc
  • Suspension (Front): Telescopic fork
  • Suspension (Rear): Twin-sided swing arm
  • Wheelbase: 70.9 inches
  • Rake: 33 degrees
  • Trail: N/A
  • Seat Height: 27.4 inches
  • Curb Weight: 730 pounds
  • Tires (Front): 120/70-21
  • Tires (Rear): 210/40-18

Accessories

  • Chrome engine guards
  • Billet brake caliper covers
  • Passing lamps
  • Five windscreen options
  • Comfort Cruise stiletto seat
  • Comfort Cruise dual touring seat
  • Hard slimbags
  • Cruiselite custom soft saddlebags
  • Six separate mounting kits

Key Competitors For The 2011 Yamaha Raider

  • Yamaha Stryker
  • Honda Fury
  • Harley-Davidson VRSC V-Rod Muscle
  • Suzuki Boulevard M109R Limited Edition
  • Saxon Motorcycles Hotrod Sceptre