Star Stryker: A Kinder, Gentler Raider

Star Motorcycles, Yamaha's standalone cruiser division, will extend its line in 2011 with the addition of a new factory chopper dubbed the Stryker. The profile is strikingly similar to last year's well-received Raider, but with a smaller-displacement, liquid-cooled engine and 75 fewer pounds. Its $10,990 price tag (in Raven black; Impact Blue and Red Copper cost $250 more) is a whopping $3500 less than its big brother, meaning the Stryker will be lighter on your bank account as well. Styling reflects current chopper trends, with an extended neck, sleek tank and a production-radical 40 degrees of fork rake. Star proudly points out that the fenders are real steel-not plastic-and final drive is via belt, not shaft, making this bike easy to customize. The 210mm-wide rear tire looks phat without fouling the steering, while the 21-inch front wheel fits a full-size, 320mm brake disc-Star won't entirely sacrifice performance for style.