2013 Yamaha Raider Review

Intro

The Yamaha Raider is a custom cruiser bike that was first introduced in 2008 in an effort to cash in on the rising popularity of custom bikes. With a chopped-out rake, raised handlebars, and a big 21-inch wheel out front, the Yamaha Star Raider has the look of a classic chopper, while benefiting from Yamaha’s cutting-edge motorcycle technological know-how. The thinking behind the Raider, then and now, has been to minimize the need for expensive aftermarket accessories by simply decking the bikes out with features in the factory. The Raider features a more stretched rake than other models put out by Yamaha’s Star imprint. This stretched-out angle lends the Raider the traditional looks and charms of a chopper without overly affecting performance and handling. The 2013 Yamaha Raider maintains the distinct tradition of cruiser styling, excellent performance, and the kind of reliability few would expect from a custom bike.

A modern cruiser inspired by the custom chopper craze of recent years, the 2013 Yamaha Raider is powered by a 113-cubic-inch (1854cc) air-cooled, four valves per cylinder, V-twin engine that generates maximum torque at 2,500 rpm and maximum power at 4,500 rpm. The engine contains four pushrod-activated valves and two spark plugs per cylinder. This helps facilitate optimal combustion efficiency, while maintaining the bike’s classic engine architecture. Cylinders are ceramic-composite plated for heat dissipation that’s superior while the Raider’s forged pistons are oil-jet cooled, to help facilitate greater reliability and engine longevity. The computer-controlled, twin-bore fuel injection system monitors engine parameters, making it possible to calculate a perfect mixture for all temperatures and conditions. The two-into-one-into-two exhaust system provides a torque boost in the 2,500-rpm range. Meanwhile special custom machining of the engine’s cooling fin enhances the engine’s jewel-like appearance. To further enhance performance and styling, a 3.5-liter airbox is concealed below the fuel tank. While the 2013 Yamaha Raider was indeed inspired by the custom chopper movement, it also provides all the handling, performance, and stopping power riders associate with Yamaha’s Star Motorcycles. The bike’s custom five-spoke wheels carry tires that are the tallest and widest to ever feature on a Star motorcycle. With an EPA estimated fuel economy of 42 mpg and a flangeless 4.2-gallon fuel tank, the 2013 Yamaha Raider has an impressive cruising range.

The 2013 Yamaha Raider is constructed on an all-aluminum cast frame that’s light, right, and tuned for athletic and responsive handling. The rider is held in place by a low, sculpted seat, while pullback bars help facilitate a cruising style that’s casual and urban. The 2013 Yamaha Raider’s 46mm fork tubes further enhance appearance and ride quality. The rear shock is concealed but still manages to facilitate a ride that remains smooth under a range of different weight loads. On the handlebars you’ll find a left-thumb operated high beam switch and a right-thumb activated accessory driving light. The instrumentation is tank-mounted to complement the Raider’s custom look. Elements of the instrumentation include an analog speedometer and fuel gauge, twin digital trip meters, an odometer, and self-diagnostics. The bike is equipped with a bright, multi-reflector headlight out front, an LED taillight, and amber turn signals behind clear lenses. The 2013 Raider has a wiring harness that employs super-slim wires for greater compactness and reduced weight. Switchgear wiring is routed inside the handlebar to help facilitate the Raider’s clean appearance. The Raider’s pullback handlebars are mounted on risers above the tank and combine with the bike’s 27.3-inch seat height to allow riders to keep their arms straight forward while holding the grips. This is in contrast to many classic models, which have riders sitting higher in the seat with their arms reaching downwards to grab the handlebars. The 2013 Yamaha Raider is designed for the rider to sit lower, and more ""inside"" the bike, as opposed to on top of it.

New For 2013

  • The 2013 Yamaha Raider's clutch features a light, easy-pull operation, requiring 20 percent less effort to operate than the previous year's model.

2013 Yamaha Raider Specs

  • Model: Yamaha Raider
  • Engine Type: 113-cubic-inch (1854cc) air-cooled V-twin, four valves/cylinder
  • Bore and Stroke: 100.0 x 118.0mm
  • Compression ratio: 9.5:1
  • Valve Train: OHV
  • Induction: Twin-bore electronic fuel injection; throttle position sensor
  • Ignition: TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition
  • Transmission: Five-speed, multiplate wet clutch
  • Final Drive: Belt
  • Fuel Capacity: 4.2 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: 42 mpg
  • Brakes (Front): Dual hydraulic disc, 298mm
  • Brakes (Rear): Hydraulic disc, 310mm
  • Suspension (Front): Telescopic fork; 5.1-in travel
  • Suspension (Rear): Swingarm; 3.5-in travel
  • Wheelbase: 70.9 in
  • Rake: 34-degree
  • Trail: 102mm
  • Seat Height: 27.4 in
  • Curb Weight:730
  • Tires (Front): 120/70-21M/C 62H
  • Tires (Rear): 210/40-18M/C 73H

Accessories

  • Quick Release Backrests
  • Fixed-Mount Passenger Backrest
  • Rear Luggage Rack
  • Quick Release Windshield
  • Switchblade Chopped Windshield
  • 465 Series Monoshocks by Progressive® Suspension
  • Custom Cover
  • JPD Bomber Chrome Kit

Key Competitors For The 2013 Yamaha Raider

  • Honda Rune 1800cc
  • Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom
  • Suzuki Intruder M1500
  • Suzuki Boulevard M90
  • Kawasaki Vulcan 1800cc