2002 Yamaha V-Star 1100

Summary:

Great motorcycle

Faults:

The clutches finally had to be replaced after 52000 miles, but that is OK by me for the mileage it had on it.

I had a charging system problem, but it turned out to only be a bad connection issue; got that fixed.

And it was running lean, causing it to not start when hot. Had my jets bored out, and it runs great now. I need to know if anybody has put a stereo system on, and had trouble with it draining the battery, and what have they done to fix it?

General Comments:

It's a great bike, glad I bought it. And it is seriously quick since I got the jets bored out.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th March, 2011

2002 Yamaha V-Star 1100

Summary:

I do not regret my decision to buy this bike

Faults:

Starter clutch failed.

AIS tube to front jug cracked and spraying condensed rusty water.

General Comments:

Bought my 2002 V-Star 1100 Classic used in 2005 after 24 years from selling my last M/C. Great bike at a low cost to provide comfortable two up riding. Only wish it had a sixth gear.

If you plan on riding long distance with your significant other, you'll need a better passenger seat.

Changes: Mustang Seat / Windshield / Oil filter relocation kit / Samson pipes / jets / Crash bars / Sissy bar and luggage rack / Leather Lyke Saddle Bags.

Needed: Removal of AIS.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th July, 2008

2002 Yamaha V-Star 1100

Summary:

Rock Solid Bike

Faults:

Nothing has gone wrong with it.

General Comments:

The Silverado package is beautiful.

It has a nice quick start at the limit line.

Using octane higher than 87, and not using a fuel cleaner from time to time will burn out your pipes. The bike is a little finicky and will back fire.

Great bike for shorter people because the seat height as well as the pedal positioning is well placed and ideal for us shorties.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th May, 2008

2002 Yamaha V-Star 1100

Summary:

This bike is a great buy for the casual rider

Faults:

None.

General Comments:

Comfortable ride. The stock seat is comfortable, and even the pillion seat is good for passengers on short trips. Long trips require a better seat for passengers.

Low cost for the quality. Brand new with many options, was half the price of a comparable Harley.

Easily customizable. I've added a custom windshield, highway pegs, fog lights, running boards, fender rack, and backrest myself without needing any special tools.

Reliable. After a year of sitting while I was deployed overseas, I came home, checked the fluids, and it started right away. This bike has needed no repairs.

Performance. For a full size cruiser, this bike has excellent handling. Its long length and low profile make it excellent for long trips or freeway riding. The shaft drive and disk brakes add to its safety and improve emergency handling in those situations when car drivers don't see me.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th December, 2004

16th Apr 2006, 15:41

Well, it's been a couple years since I wrote the review.

Since then...

The starter went out, but was replaced under warranty.

The pillion seat screw was recalled, and also replaced.

The battery died after 4 winters of sitting. It cost $75 to replace.

I've added several accessories, and it's even more comfortable now.

It sometimes fouls the plugs too easily, and it's tendency to run rich makes it cough at low end acceleration, and backfire sometimes. The dealership has not been helpful in resolving this issue.

If anybody knows what to do to fix this problem, please add a comment.