Is the V star 650 big enough for a man? (highway)

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[@mikedemaio2611]

bin riding a 2000 v-star 650 for 14 years, took it clear across the country several times. most dependable machine i have ever owned. I happy Wow, it's now near the end of 2024.... First posted this 3 years ago, now I bin riding this bike 17 years. Since the first post I have moved my foot pegs forward about 2 inches and raised them about a quarter inch. Not much difference but it is way more comfortable. Also I put apes one it. Wow! whole different machine. Took me about a year to get really comfortable with them but I liked them instantly. Be blessed.

[@adamjackson3695]

How many miles do you have one it .. im look at an 01 with 20,xxx

[@therealericjackdaniels]

@@adamjackson3695 I've got 39,xxx on mine she still runs strong and nice. No leaks. Good bikes. Very happy.

[@Sampsonthesmoke]

Just bought an 04 V Star 650 Classic with 9,000 MI, first real bike other than a dirt bike I've had and I love it

[@axellgonzalez8211]

how tall are you?

[@Sampsonthesmoke]

LOL I'm a little guy I'm like 5 9 130 lb

[@Atreyas]

Anyone who says a 650 doesn't have enough power to take you out on the highway, is full of it. I have an 07 VStar 650, and I regularly have it dragging my 6'1, 300lb ass down the highway at 90mph. Put over 16k miles on it the 2 years I've owned it, and can't say it's ever disappointed. Sure if I was doing a lot of 2up, it might be lacking a bit on the highway, but it'd still get the job done. Throw a pod kit on it and replace the exhaust, maybe some Barnett clutch springs.. you're good to go for many, many thousands of miles. Anyone who says it's too small, is just overcompensating.

[@Faltrollet]

How the gas mileage at highways?

[@Atreyas]

If I'm not pegging it, which I normally do, you probably get close to 135 miles before reserve. I generally have it topped out though and sometimes have her sputter at only 95. I never track my mpg though, I just top her off when I hit around 90 miles as I could use a break anyway by then. Just took it today on a 800 mile trip to the Tail of the Dragon.. 14hrs on her (with breaks) and I loved every minute of it.

[@Faltrollet]

Thanks!

[@jimmymac63]

It is funny and great that you put that out there Atreyas. My 5'10" 250 pounds ass is buying my brother-in-laws 07 V Star. He loved it and he is 6'2" around 275. Said it has great pickup and cruise speeds. I only need it for around town and trips to another small town near. I cannot wait to get on it!!!!!!

[@jimmymac63]

Oh, how many miles per tank of gas were you getting Atreyas?

[@samstein1822]

My first bike was a vstar 650, it was perfect to start on and had enough power to suffice my riding style. You don't need anything fancy or fast to have fun riding.

[@Baek69]

^This is very true for sure. It is my first bike and it feels like i'm flying even though I know i'm not.

[@Patch_58]

I’m 6’5” 330 lbs, and I bought a 2002 Vstar 650 Classic as my first bike a few months ago. It has plenty of power. It’s been re-jetted and has Cobra pipes. It’s the perfect bike to learn with. Now that I’m getting more comfortable riding I want to get something with more power, but that’s been my plan the whole time anyway. These bikes, if well maintained, have pretty good resale values too.

[@givemefreespeechyoutubehitlers]

Plenty of power and yet it barely does 80mph 😂

[@Patch_58]

@@givemefreespeechyoutubehitlers I couldn’t get mine over 50mph.

[@haydensophie]

@@givemefreespeechyoutubehitlers And?

[@daroChaNNeL]

If you really want to ride cc don't matter. Here in Thailand you see ppl riding 250cc up across the country . No problem with that

[@fabianhayos7897]

Thailand is 3rd world, so, it does not count

[@odingrey6672]

Also a man in Thailand is like 90 lbs. Sooo...

[@glassimageproduction]

daro ChaNNeL There are some Canadian riders who have taken Ninja 250s across country, it’s entirely possible. It’s just not the most comfortable ride for such long distances.

[@archieandlittlebear8812]

@@fabianhayos7897 your name if Fabian so you don't qualify as a man sooo....

[@yorikvatral929]

Coz there no normal roads for normal riding, in Thai..)

[@Thatonederp]

I just bought my first bike today! It's actually a gift for my mom. 2000 650 vstar with 1500 miles on it. I've done the MSF course and have never been over 35 MPH on a motorcycle. I had to take it 65 MPH for a couple miles, rode like a dream! It had no issue getting up to speed and I'm 6' 220 pounds. I know this is an old video, but it fits the bike.

[@gav3850]

what bike you got now three years later

[@Thatonederp]

@gav3850 The same bike.😅 Keeping it nice for my mom and watching fluids. I have put 3,500 miles on it now. Got hurt on the job, got a home and a kid isn't cheap. 🤣 I appreciate the checking up! I wish I had some cool story in response. Lol

[@noone-pg4lr]

@@Thatonederpyour mom awesome

[@Pdoja1990]

@@Thatonederpcan you commute comfortably on it? Like 160 miles a day?

[@jroberthadden]

When I was a kid, (old man talking here) a Honda CB750 was huge to us. When I traded up from my Honda CB450 to my Yamaha XS650 I was in tall cotton. Commuted eighty miles round trip back and forth to work. One day, however, I saw a "big" Moto Guzzi at a gas station off Interstate 74. That changed my life. The guy was from five states away and the sounds that motorcycle made when he rode away had me in love. Four years later I owned a Guzzi Eldorado... No doubt these VSTAR 650 bikes will do the job.

[@MrMambott]

Also the problem is the young generation have been hypnotized by 1000cc and up Sports Bikes and think anything under has no power , most people over 40 know that anything over 500cc is quite a considerable size bike for any application ,, PS , Cruisers are exactly that ,,, Cruisers ,,, made for Cruising at such a speed to which you can actually see the world go by : )

[@TheSpyChecker]

I doubt that anyone of any age serious about riding would think anything under 1000 has no power...Maybe if they were severely brain damaged? Throw them on a 400cc+ 2 stroke. Hell even the RS250 i rented to ride Europe gave me a heck of a thrill.

[@Danol123]

If a 125cc bike can go nice for a man i don't see the issue with anything over. With enough horsepower and high enough rpm and better gear differential you could even do the highway with a 50cc bike. I mean my previous 50cc was a china moped wich did about 90 on a flat road. So i think a 125 can do good enough doing 130. And 250s doing 160 while anything over usually does 180 once you reach 750 they might go over on some and some not. Sportsbikes usually are a bit higher even on less cc. But a 650 is big enough. I mean look at Triumph Rocket 3 wich is fucking 2294cc. Thats bigger than an average car. And Indian, Honda, Yamaha and Harley on their biggest 1800 is too big. A 750 is basically what you'd want. You can have bigger, and you can have smaller. There's no definition of how big a bike must be to be a man. Thats all just bullshit.

[@TheSpyChecker]

Dan, i own 3 bikes. A 2016 GSXR 1000, a 2007 Boulevard m109R....and a chinese 250cc single cylinder. (Braaap cadet st250). Nowadays i'm having more fun riding my 250 like i stole it than barely feathering the throttle on my other two....Anyone who bags something for it's size, or for being a scooter (banter for days, however) isn't a rider. They're an idiot. well put comment

[@dhoffman4994]

Danol123 2294cc is NOT "bigger than the average car." An average car is about 4000cc's or 4 liters or 244 cubic inches. 2294cc is approximately 140 cubic inches. Not even close. 61 cubic inches is approximately one liter, or 1000cc's Average car is about 4 liters for a 6 cylinder. Or 244 cubic inches / 4000 cc's. Please show proof of a 50cc doing 90 miles an hour on any incline or flat. I find that really hard to believe.

[@Danol123]

D Hoffman have you completely lost your damn mind. An average car is about 2k cc. In the old days it used to be about 900 to 1100cc. 4000cc is not an average car you dumbass. 4000cc is a big block engine mostly used in heave weight supercars or muscle cars. If you really think thats average then you’re really stupid.

[@schumad]

I typically ride a 2014 V Star 650 Custom and I love it. I've taken passengers with me quite a few times, and I've never had an issue with highway speeds.

[@HereIsRick]

My first bike was a 2005 650 midnight custom. It had more than enough power, pulled large hills without problems and cruised at 75mph. I am 5'11'' and weigh about 215. The only bad thing about these bikes are if you are a taller man it may feel very cramped, but with highway bars it it pretty nice. Also, the seat was terrible for me.

[@jimbright8194]

I just bought a 99 v star 650 as my first bike. I live about an hour and a half from Lancaster and when it was 65 degrees this past Wednesday I took it to work and was like this is the coolest thing ever! I can’t wait for summer! I’m gonna come see you guys one day.

[@Smoothbrain69]

Took my 250 vstar on a 3000 mile road trip several years back. Acceleration definitely takes a hit after 70 mph. could still get it up to the 85 to 90 mph range but for me it's a bit of a safety issue, not having the punch available to you if something goes wrong. 650 is definitely road worthy.

[@MeTubeERG]

My first bike, I still have it and I love it. I use my Raider for the highway. Don't be fooled, the 650 gets buzzy on the highway and is laggy at 60 mph and higher -- forget about 80 or 90. Perfect for around town, though -- lotsa chunky low-end.

[@ryanneal9079]

I’ve taken my 07 v star 650 classic to Tennessee on a 5 hour ride being 6’4 , 220lbs, very comfortable and well worth the purchase, have had it for 3 years

[@scottcooper7097]

I had a 2010 V Star 650 for a few years and finally traded it in on a 2015 V Star 1300 because on the highway, the 650 felt like it was giving it all she had, even at speeds as low as 65 mph. (In my opinion, it needs another gear up there) Don't get me wrong; it's got the power to ride on the highway, and it's perfectly fine for commuting but I wouldn't want to take an extended trip on it. I'm much happier with the bigger, more powerful engine on the 1300 because now 65 mph feels like a nice leisurely speed as opposed to the "balls to the wall" feeling I got with the 650.

[@therealericjackdaniels]

You're right. I feel the same way about my 2000 650 Classic. It feels really good at 60-65. Anything over that starts to vibrate and feel like I'm really nearing the top end of the bikes output. I have the cheat sheet with the numbers breaking down speeds and rpms. 50-60mph is really in the sweet spot 3,000rpm where the torque peak is on the 650. 30mph I'm already shifting into 5th and it sounds so good. I also agree thought that I said from the start I feel like the bike needs another gear up.

[@kenwittlief255]

the 650 does NOT need another gear its not a harley, its not a long throw engine it is designed to be REVED to hit the peak HP the bike has a rev limiter, if you have never hit it, you have never hit the peak HP of the engine in each gear Top speed on the stock bike is just over 100mph. If it had another gear it would be lugging and it would not get over 80. What do you care how the engine sounds at 80 or 90mph? With stock exhaust the wind noise is louder than the engine at 85.

[@floridianthe5465]

Good job..... I got 2016 V star 650 leftover, it had sat in the showroom 2 years. $4600......I drive it everyday in Florida........Great bike for tooling around.......Love it

[@mikaelsant7980]

I ride a Kawasaki z125 I’ll still wave to Harley’s and get a wave back.. real man status

[@gardini100]

right now I ride the Honda Monkey 125cc they wave to me too :) but as in life some wave some don't, the secure ones always do :D

[@MrCrackedJack]

Real riders don't give a shit what you're riding, just that you're riding.

[@StarCustom-pk5ff]

The VStar 650 is big enough for just about anybody.

[@giovannijoseph9580]

I was 480 lbs, 6'4" tall, test riding bikes. The Yamaha VSTAR 650 is a great ride. I have Hyosung 250 Aquila, I would ride cross country. I'm down to 440lbs. It might be a little slow up the big peaks, but enjoy it then! I opted for a VSTAR 1100, because the price, the color, and some of the options not on the 650s I looked at. I would have needed adjustments on the 650, but needed them on the 1100 too, because they were set up for little people. So, what, just set it up to make YOU comfortable! I have 1550 Harley Davidson CVO too; but, that little Hyosung 250 Aquila keeps up with the big bikes on HOG (Harley Owners Group) chapter rides, when I run that! - you do NOT have to own a Harley to join, or ride - in HOG chapters! We know you will buy one, you can afford, sooner than later! ;^) Your little Vespa 125 might not do cross country. How fast will it go? Wind is pushy on smaller bikes. But, I have trouble in heavy wind, no matter the bike. Get accostumed to it, carefully, or stop a while and enjoy the local flora! Harley Davidson FXSTDSE2 CVO Hyosung GT 250 Aquila '04 Yamaha VSTAR 1100 '05 BMW R1150RT 2004 BMW 2008 F800S - best 70mpg w/440lbs+ Fatboy 1999 Harley Harley 05 1200 Sportster BMW R1100RT 2003 Honda Silverwing 400 1983 - great cross country bike! Triumph Sprint ST 955 2005 Triumph Sprint ST 955 2003 Yamaha FZ1 1000 2003 Yamaha FZ1 1000 2004 Yamaha VStar 1100 2006 Yamaha FJ1200 1987 Honda 750 four 1976 ? Suzuki 850 TD 1983 All will go cross country, no problems - I did that on all of them! Yamaha 650 Special 1976 King Queen seat bicentennial!

[@giovannijoseph9580]

My Hyosung GV 250 Aquila runs me 85 mph. It runs at 80 mpg, declining over 60mph +/-! Oh, I'm 6'4", and 440lbs rock hard meat! LOL PS It really will! If want bigger, get a 500! ...and go anywhere!

[@warrenalbert9336]

Right except the double 300+ pounders.

[@youdropwemop8854]

@@warrenalbert9336 315 and the 6fitty is still a pretty damn good ride.

[@youdropwemop8854]

@@NickGould50687 mine is a shitbox 2000 and mostly bobbered. With a severely orange paint job i luckily cant take credit for 😂 All imperfections aside....couldnt be more happy with my lil 650.

[@parakidd]

I own this exact year, make, model, and engine size bike. I've only had it since March of this year (2021) and it's amazing. I have not been on the interstate with it yet but there have been some long stretches of open road here in South Alabama where I've cruised easily at 80-85 MPH. I personally don't like the interstate because of those people on 4 wheels, but this bike is more than capable.

[@lowtech67]

I recently picked up a stock 2003 V star custom with less than 12K on it. New tires, plugs,changed the fluids, lubed the shaft gears and it rides and runs like new. I'm getting 45-50MPG at 55 to 60MPH riding round trip 60ish miles daily on two lane highways in steep hills with lots of curves. Very stable and has more than enough power for the highway and hills. Its a large ( long ) bike but it does low speed ( parking lots ) easily. Power wise I've had it up to 70MPH so far and it was still pulling hard with lots of gear left when I let off. Very comfortable too, that's important to a guy in his mid 50's!!! :) I can get off the bike after a ride with no aches, pains or a dead butt. I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking for a cruiser.

[@Pharto_Stinkus]

The 650 vstar is one of the most popular customization platforms for a reason.

[@Roadstar1602]

Because it's very inexpensive and looks fantastic.

[@brotherjared2197]

guess you could say its the honda civic of bikes xD

[@InnerCityX]

its gonna be my first bike in a month or so

[@cosmicgamingunlimited]

Just took a test drive on 2001 today. I was very pleased, put my deposit down and will be picking it up Thursday.

[@Roadstar1602]

Is it purple or green/beige? My first bike was the purple 2001. My buddy liked it and bought the two-tone green/beige one. I think they had a black one, too that year. Mine was the Classic.

[@timh515]

Have a 2000 650 XVS classic, drove from Florida to Toronto Canada and back no problem, very dependable, 55 MPG, Have over 44,000 miles on it. 537 lbs, Regular oil changes, comfortable ride, runs great. (Did wish it had a 6th gear) Had bigger bikes in the past, one knee bone on bone, other replaced with Titanium knee, can't hold heavy bikes up as well anymore. Getting old!

[@vstar45]

I bought my 2001 Star 650 Classic for two reasons. one is that the price was so good?$5,850 out the door. Second the bike looks so COOL. I put a Memphis Shades Batwing Fairing on it with some extra large soft saddlebags and she looks sharp. I turned 50k on the clock and I am still using the original headlight bulb and turn signals. I am 6ft and 200lbs. Speed is never an issue. I still stand back and can't believe how good she looks and drives.

[@jimbos6117]

vstar45 I have a 650 V-Star put Baja lights on the front outside the forks for better light built the sissy bar for the wife and a carrier on the back but I find I just don't have that extra gear I'd like other than that it's a great cycle

[@tdgdbs1]

And the shaft drive

[@r3m3jy]

i ride a stock 2013 VStar 650, no windshield. I am about 5'9" and 250lbs and have had mine up to 85 with just a bit more to give. It is susceptible to winds, so constant concentration is important. I am using this as a bike to reintroduce myself to riding in groups again after 20 years in a cage. While I can easily keep up with most of the guys in the Riding Association, I would like to upgrade to at least a 900 to 1100cc bike for a bit more power. I do like this bike and plan to keep around for daily rides to work. Very low maintenance and willing to take the punishment I might give.

[@garrettr4752]

Just bought an xvs 650 as my first bike, and dude I'm pumped. Drove it up my road and back (first ever time riding a motorcycle) and I'm pretty confident with it just need to learn the clutch.

[@vaden706]

Congrats bro!! I’m getting my first bike this week as well Vulcan 800

[@kenwittlief255]

Take the MSF beginners riding course dont ride on the street until you do - your life depends on it

[@bobbychambers927]

Even seasoned riders kill the 650s on take off sometimes. Shrug your shoulders, chuckle, start it back up, and go on having fun.

[@larryrowe5259]

I have a 2000 v-star custom with 20xxx miles on it. Runs good, looks good, and is just right for my frame (5' 6) at 70 years old , it's perfect for me.

[@Fastjimmy041]

Great review, I was going to buy the 250cc as my first bike but this clip has convinced me to get the 650cc instead. I want to use it for the freeway and it has way more power than I need. Great looking Bike too.

[@JP-md4jz]

Have a 650 now that I purchased from SRK coming up on a year. Thanks Sean! The bike has been great for a first cruiser. Very good to learn on and big enough looking next to many other bikes with more cc's. I'm 5-9 about 185 ish. Have been on the highway several times and have no problem keeping up with traffic. The bike can do two up but I wouldn't recommend it. Have done it a couple of times but the lack of power is evident. Will have for this riding season then looking to upgrade to a bigger cruiser. Definitely heading back to Sean and the crew to upgrade. These bikes are inexpensive, reliable and good first bikes for many.

[@jeffreysmith9332]

Had similar issues with 2 up riding when my v start 650 was all stock. I put after market pipes, a hyper charger intake (had to re-jet the carbs), and a dyna-3000 ignition module (allowed me to alter max rpm and the ignition advance curve) it had no issues at all with 400 pounds of people on it and riding solo it was almost as fast as the 1300 cruisers I rode with. Also, got it up above 130mph. And all for less than $400. Might want to think about that before spending tons more on another bike.

[@xKB1990x]

Thanks for the review. It really answered a few of my questions and seeing you ride it really gave me perspective on the position of the rider (I am roughly the same height and build) and you looked pretty comfy riding it

[@davespruce4362]

Easy to ride, plenty of power for the real world, easy to move around owing to low c.o.g. fantastic build quality and good to look at, what's not to like ? Not as common here in England as they seem to be in the states. Been thinking about changing mine for a couple of years now but then summer comes around and there I am riding with a smile again. It just does it for me. There's a good reason that Yamaha kept making them, they're good! In case you guys across the pond didn't know they're not badged Star Mororcycles over here nor do they use the V Star name, to us it's a Yamaha Dragstar, I've got the custom model and I love it. Only got 2 small niggles for me, the seat could do with some better padding, I use a gel seat to get over this, and the front brake is a bit weak and wooden feeling, adequate for steady cruising but would like more bite for emergencys.

[@groover5863]

Great vid. I have a 2006 and absolutely love it . I'm 5'7" and I feel a perfect match for the size and power range. Not to mention it's pretty much a maintenance free ride.

[@kenwittlief255]

the 650 does NOT need a 6th gear 5th gear is already an overdrive ratio its not a harley, its not a long throw engine, its a square throw piston/crank it is designed to be REVED to hit the peak HP the bike has a rev limiter, if you have never hit it, you have never hit the peak HP of the engine in each gear Top speed on the stock bike is just over 100mph. If it had another gear it would be lugging and it would not get over 80. What do you care how the engine sounds at 80 or 90mph? With stock exhaust the wind noise is louder than the engine at 85.

[@KiwiHelpgeek]

I bought an XVS650 Classic after my Suzuki S40 (aka Savage) was stolen. The difference is a revelation. While the S40 has slightly better torque, pulling away from the lights a touch quicker, the XVS has the top end legs on the S40. It took me a little while getting used to the extra weight but once I did I much prefer the XVS. It ride much better, soaking up the bumps much better than the S40, which was a bit firm, especially for my weight - 140kg (300 pounds). I ride with my club as well as commuting. The only two things I miss about the S40 is that the lesser width of the S40 makes lane splitting a bit easier at times and I miss the backfires of the S40 (yes, I am a big child).

[@edcarr8692]

My wife owns a V-Star 650 and rode from NY state to Colorado and back a few years ago. All highway and no issues keeping up with traffic. She is 5'10" and has no regrets about getting this bike. She totally LOVES it.

[@ThePhotographersStone]

Yes, I road a 1999 for 4 years, two up several times also with tall windshield and bags. I'm 5'8 245lbs. It just needed a 6th gear to keep rpm's lower on the highway. The frame is a little bit smaller than other bikes but then again people ride Sportsters which has a small frame and even a thinner frame than the v-star 650.

[@OnPointFirearms]

I don't believe you.

[@ThePhotographersStone]

What part is not believable?

[@joeyr88]

Dennis H i always wanted a 6th gear as well

[@jeffreysmith9332]

Mine didn't need a 6th gear. Dyna 3000 ignition have a more aggressive curve and a 9,000 rpm red line. These are a short stroke motor. They run really well at higher rpm. Mine would run at 90mph all day with no issues. And I had it all the way up to 140 with more to go.

[@toml665]

There is a reason the 650 Vstar has been made since 1998. It was the Motorcycle cruiser Bike of the year early on, you can go anywhere and get 50 mpg. Cross country maybe not but 60-70 miles on a highway run no problem. Ride to work ride on weekends can keep up with the bigger bikes too

[@DoomFinger511]

No way the bike gets 50+ mpg. I own a 98 V-Star. Manual says it gets 40mpg. I'm lucky to get that only if I'm easy on the throttle. It really gets closer to 30-35mpg.

[@DoomFinger511]

@John Yeah I think I do need to have my carb synced or cleaned or something. Once the bike warms up it idles pretty high. Also I noticed only one exhaust pipe gets hot when I have the choke out but then they both get hot once I push the choke back in. You think that is a carb sync issue?

[@yorikvatral929]

70 mpg ! How do you like that ? 2001 V Star 650 (was 5000 on ODO) One time I measured it. But only on a hiway (I-95, down to NY from CT). Filled up (93, super), drove 70 miles, stop on gas station again and guess what ? Exect 1 gallon ! No windshield, but big saddlebags , my weight 150lb (with helmet)))

[@DoomFinger511]

@@yorikvatral929 Why would you use 93 octane? The compression isn't high enough to need it and the gas isn't more efficient, it's a carbureted motor.

[@yorikvatral929]

@@DoomFinger511 have no clue how it's work on a bike, using super because always putting super in my car, and I heard it's cleaner. Hope I'm not gonna damage bike engine ?

[@frios011]

V star 650 is more than capable for highway runs, I have one, i've done them and very comfortably. People are way too hung up on image and names. I would definitely buy another when I'm ready. Other peoples opinions mean nothing to me.

[@MultiSweetkisses1]

Agreed 😎👍💯💯

[@AZDESERT2024]

The BMW C650 sport/GT will go over 100mph and ride smoother than most motorcycles on the highway. The only difference between a Maciscooter and a motorcycle is the pass through in front.

[@willstorm8331]

The only way to truly be cool is to not care what others think is cool.

[@Baek69]

Bought one about a month ago as my first bike. Love it. Plenty of power, but over 70 you'd be wishing you had a 6th gear. Although I'm about 200 lbs so lighter riders may find it easier. The only thing I didn't like at first was the clutch. It took me a while to get used to how far out it catches and I definitely stalled it a lot more than the bike I used in my MSF course. But now I'm pretty adjusted to it and even starting from a stop in 2nd gear isn't too bad when you practice it a little bit.

[@LuisCypher4666]

Yes, it is perfectly fine on the highway. I have an 08 VStar and I love it. I'm 5'10" and 220 lbs. The only thing I feel like it's lacking is a 6th gear. If it had that 6th gear it would be the perfect bike.

[@JohnDoeSmith08]

The same can be said of the 1100. Needs 1more gear.

[@kyser3ify]

@@JohnDoeSmith08 same for every bike ever, 1 more gear please...

[@agentone8511]

2 take it or leave it

[@Long-nd8bq]

That's a good looking black V-twin cruiser bike. I'd ride that. Without the badging no one really knows what it is and it could even fit in with American bike crowd on the highway.

[@dominicletourneau8940]

Thanks for this video. Just got my motorcycle license and have been looking at bikes for commuting to work. This puts some fears to rest (I sit at 220 lbs) and opens up some options as far as engine size.

[@tomfarrington2348]

"A lot of people don't think its big enough to take on the highway" Meanwhile there's me on my VL250 commuting to uni everyday on the motorway....

[@Cpt.Clance]

I ride a ct90 hahaha

[@warrenalbert9336]

Thats because they are too fat at 350 pounds and need the extra torque for their fat ass.

[@obque86nz]

Bahaha same here , I'm on the Yamaha 250 vstar and it actually holds up alright. High revs , but 20 minutes suits me fine. Time to upgrade to the 650 though !

[@apexcrackbear4113]

Seriously? I drove a 450 Rebel on the highway 100-130kph on a 317km non stop(except for gas) road trip last summer with no problems. Bit cramped, after a few hours but other than that no complaints. Now its a 30 yr old parallel twin as opposed to a V but still, never doubted the highway capability of a 650. Love the videos, you sold me on a Shadow ACE 750 as my first upgrade from the 450. keep up the good work!

[@joedoole3527]

It's not the top speed that makes many people uneasy on the highway with a low power bike. As you say even a 250-300cc bike can hit the speed limit anywhere in the USA. The problem comes with not having any available power at those speeds. I.e. If your already going 70 and need to accelerate to get around or away from something, the power just isn't there to do it quickly on a small bike like it is on a larger bike. When I first got my VT750C 100% stock it literally took 10 seconds or so to go from like 70 to 80 MPH. ALOT can happen on the road in 2 seconds let alone 10, so this didn't make me feel comfortable and I had to find more power/acceleration to feel safe. Even on 65 MPH limit roads the flow of traffic is usually going atleast 80, and going 65 in a pack of cars going 80 isn't safe either, so you want a bike that can handle fluctuations in speed as well as top speeds. That being said any modern motorcycle can pretty much be safely ridden on highways it's just a matter of preference for the rider if they feel a particular bike is adequate or not.

[@pauld.b7129]

The rebel 450 is an amazing bike. The overdrive gear really makes it cruise nice at 60-70 with plenty of power. One of, if not my favorite bike ive ever owned. Used to ride it to work with my roomate every day and took some amazing long highway days on it. If they'd made it as long as they made the other rebel it wouldve been a hit. Every cruiser should have a overdrive top gear ive decided. That 450 was better on the highway with that overdrive gear than most other small cruisers. To me a 750 is the perfect size cruiser for anything though. No reason to be bigger than that unless your just a huge guy or are really doing some seriously long 1000+ mile trips every year.

[@scottgeorge4760]

I went from a "82" 450 Honda nighthawk to a "05" Honda Shadow Spirit 😀. The Nighthawk had 6 speeds and as much H.P. as my newer Honda cruiser.

[@Benny46drift]

Had my 650 now for a year and still love it, I thought the bike might be struggling at 70-75mph but I am told it's just loud because I have really short exhausts "cut offs" I am told. (I am 5f6) great video thank you

[@ivanroux435]

Great Vlog Srkcycles. I watched this very video just before finalizing my decision to buy my 2005 Yamaha Dragstar, which is also my first motorcycle ever bought. The 650 has got plenty of power to make me happy. Thanks for the Vlog. Ride for life.

[@scottlasky4925]

Thank you!!! I was on the fence about buying one exactly like this and you just put me over. I really appreciate this!!!

[@NoHypeJizzReviews]

How did you end up liking it?

[@unap16]

Loving the new format with different camera angles. Would love highway segments for all future installments if possible.

[@craigburner1296]

I've had a 2008, fully dressed, chrome to the max, Canadian Special since it came out. It was my first bike. Took my test on it it and passed with flying colours. Everything you said is true, this is a great bike. I can go up steep hills in top gear with my wife , bags and rear luggage rack full. The only down side is it gets buzzy at 60 mph and above, needs a 6th gear. This is the best first bike to buy.

[@madhausen]

Videos like these are highly helpful to me, here in Australia when we first start riding we can't get a bike over basically 650cc and it's been really hard for me to choose my first cruiser. I really like the look of the kawasaki vulcan 650 but it just sounds horrible compared to the V star or anything really.

[@BiblicalAuthority1611]

The V star 650 sounds great. It also depends upon the pipes you have. Great motorcycle.

[@3012401472]

I've had my 650 Classic for about a year and do a lot of just riding around the suburbs with the odd blurt along the highways....and all of this 2-up! I'm 85kg's and the missus about 55kg's and the bike does everything beautifully. I'll be keeping mine for years to come.

[@ajcarter7652]

Hey Sean. Thanks for the videos. You helped me decided which bike was right for my first bike. I picked up an 07 v star 650 with 6100 miles on it. The only thing wrong is the rear fuel cut off solenoid. I picked it up for $1300

[@Ryanhullphotography]

I'm 6'2 and 180lb. I have a 07 650 vstar and it's a great bike. It's sweet spot is around 55mph but I have taken it on the highway at 75mph before. Wouldn't be the best for long distance though. The rpm is really high after 65mph.

[@jayneray6584]

I agree with this comment and seem to remember reading a Yamaha article saying they designed the bike for a useable speed range of 50 to 110 km/h, so 30 to 70 mph. Mine feels most happy around 90 - 100 km/h, so 55 to 60mph. It does what Yamaha designed it to do and is a real pleasure to ride, both as a newby and a returning biker. Safe rides.

[@jayneray6584]

I'm Tony using my wife's PC :)

[@casteelp6]

I’m looking to get one of these possibly but would like my wife to ride with me? What would you say

[@xAlienWarfareGamingx]

You think it would be capable of doing a 3 hour highway trip at around 70mph?

[@RevQuads]

When I was a young man, I had a Kawasaki 500 2-stroke triple. That thing was a handful. The last bike I had was a Honda 360. I am now 350 pounds, 6 foot tall, and older than dirt. My wife and I have been looking at a V star 250! It seems to be all we'd need for daytrips. Still thinking about it...

[@JupiterCyclops-l5x]

Bro.... 3yrs later.... Did you get it? I weigh 140 & wouldt want to take my yamaha 250 on a day trip with just me on it. Too low geared. Some have good results changing the sprockets I had an 82 kawasaki Ltd 550 , then an 85 yamaha fz 750. Miss them both especially the fz. This 250 is great in town & on back highways but I have no desire to get ir on the interstate. My cousin had one of those honda 360. Sweet bike. Hope it worked out for you. PEACE!

[@stevemechamoo9475]

I'm 340 lbs. and ride mine all day long.

[@Matthew-dw8ty]

Steve G, Hi I’m about the same weight do you mind me asking how talk you are? I’m 6’4” and trying to see how a taller person like the 650 vstar

[@thistexanspov6337]

good to know. im 5'7 315lbs and was curious if it would do well. thanks! for the big man post!

[@johningram2153]

Thanks for adding highway videos, which was a request of mine (and others) last season. Also the chase camera is really helpful. Best online dealer that I know about.

[@mrvwbug4423]

650s are fine on the highway, slap some bags on that and you can easily do some light touring on it. Those Vance & Hines pipes sound pretty good too, sounds a lot bigger than it is but still nice and smooth.

[@matttay9937]

There is something hilariously ironic making a video about if a bike is "manly" enough and then the first thing you do is.... "i gotta change my shoes!"

[@muskokamike127]

well, he WAS wearing crocs lol......I used to get ragged on for wearing my runners when jumping on my bike to run to the store......

[@billyjean2960]

Love mine! I got the v star 650 custom 2013. I take it on highway and 70-75mph feels just fine! 20,000 miles. I am 6'2 170lbs

[@jimwilliams3517]

We have a dealership looking for a first bike for us. When he mentioned the V Star 650 I cringed. After seeing this video, I'm lookin' forward to it.

[@davidsizemore5642]

Commuted for a year on a V-Star 650. Loved that bike! 60 miles or so each way on I-95 from Fredericksburg, VA to DC. It rode quite well, and would handle the 75-80 mph traffic fine. My only issue was that there was nothing left. You completely lose the option for a quick acceleration to get out of trouble. Might even buy another once I'm done commuting on the interstate.

[@ddunlap86]

i had a 2000 honda shadow 600 for 4 years and i'm a big guy. i learned to ride and pushed it on the highway for the last year i owned it at speeds of 75mph on average. 600's are great to learn on and you'll have a hard time out growing them if your commute isn't like mine. my commute is 50 miles and all highway so i upgraded to a vtx1300. i believe the vstar 650 is dual carb so it'll breath easier at high speeds unlike my single carb shadow did and it still got me where i needed to be without complaining.

[@mattePRL]

I recently borrowed Shadow 600 '91 from my dad. I always wondered why he has "relatively small" engine. If you don't cruise / travel long distances it is terrific commuter* I think I'm going to keep it next to my naked, at least until dad comes to my garage with warrant. In Poland highway speed is around 86mph and at this speed it gets a little bit "gummy" to comfortably drive it, but 75 is still comfortable and fast enough. * If you have fancy saddlebags forget about filtering, although leaving backpack at home is worth it ;]

[@usMarinecuv902]

ddunlap86 I just got my first bike two weeks ago, a Honda Shadow 1100 I don't feel overwhelmed by it at all. the reason I didn't go with a 750 is I know I would feel like I wanted more after a few weeks.

[@goldpilgrim]

I had s VLX 600. In Midwest where the limit is 75 mph, the bike is dangerously slow. No passing power, can't pull against a strong wind.

[@KiwiHelpgeek]

I have no problems with filtering with my saddlebags mounted.

[@tommylogan2201]

Great review I have a 2006 yamaha v star 650 as my first bike and as a smaller guy it's a masive bike but fun to ride.

[@scottgeorge4760]

I got passed by a Yamaha V-Star 650 on Interstate 5 , (I-5) .

[@BigFishMystic]

It's good that you film from the side view to demonstrate seating position. Some channels don't think about it. 👍

[@JimD410]

I have a 99 vstar I ride on highway all the time but it does seem like it's screaming above 80 but will cruise all day long comfortably at 75. I jetted it out and put cobras on it and took baffles out lol and it sounds pretty mean too. But I've had mine for years and was my father's before that there great bikes!

[@user-qc3ol3mk3f]

2002 and I ride mine up and down on highway 66, 65mph. I love my bike, I'm 60.

[@dad_chores]

I was thinking "this place screams central PA". Then I saw the signs for Lancaster. Boom.

[@michaelsmith1094]

That bike looks great. Back in the sixties I owned two Triumph 650's rode all over the place. The interstate was not finished at that time but rt.66 was and all of the best cruising was and still is on the back lonesome roads. That's one of the main reasons I like cruisers and not going too fast. you can look and admire the scenery much better than a car. Didn't have to wear helmets back then which have always bothered me with the wind pulling the straps and making the trip less pleasurable. I kind of think it is a modern mindset today that bigger and faster is better, well maybe on the drag strip strip. A great old saying you gotta stop and smell the roses.

[@kiarashchristianomoshar4071]

This Bike looks amazing! I am in love with it!! They also have the 1100 cc

[@danielgabalski2312]

I rode a 650 V-Star across the country. It was a great trip. Rained on me all across Pennsylvania. Handled most of the highway quite well. A little tough to handle in the high winds of Nebraska. It will go 90 but it is topped out there and screaming which was a bit exhausting. 65-70 is it’s comfort zone. My neck was pretty beat up at the end of the trip but I think that was from just straining in the high winds. It was a great week. I pushed it. A little less than 3 days from New York City to Boulder Colorado.

[@davmar9923]

In my experience any modern motorcycle with at least 500cc is more than sufficient for freeway use.

[@warrenalbert9336]

Exactly

[@brisonjones7876]

My 250 rides highway speeds 75-80 but she’s screaming 😂

[@TheBabyDerp]

My first cruiser was a vstar 650. absolutely loved it. i am 6 foot 165 lbs and it handled like a dream on the high way. being shaft driven probably helps with that. granted I upgraded to the bike from a ninja 250 which was absolute crap on the highway.

[@jetstream454]

Cruising RPMs are more around 4,500 when you mentioned, but still good considering its limiter is around 7k

[@MrRudeDog100]

When I was a returning rider in 2003, I got a 650 V-Star and loved it. My background had been mostly dirt bikes and sport bikes, but I hadn't ridden a bike for about 15 years. It carried my 6'1", 260 lbs just fine. It would accelerate with the big boys and handled almost like a sport bike. Yamaha really did themselves proud when they designed this bike. It was big enough that often times people would ask me what model Harley this was, lol, and I never felt "small" when parked next to the big-bore cruisers. From the looks of it, people couldn't believe it was only a 650. At 65 mph it would get buzzy, but still had plenty of speed left to go up to some stupid fast speeds. Anyway, I didn't get it to cruise the interstates, so for the country roads and city driving I did, it was perfect, with plenty of throttle for running to 55-60 mph, and way beyond if needed. I tend to use the throttle a lot, so my mileage was usually around 45-50 mpg, depending how squirrelly I was feeling . Yes, there were times when I wanted another 100-200 more cc's, but really, it did everything I needed it to do without hesitation. I loved the shaft drive and it was smooth as silk.

[@Oregu7]

Thank you for taking your time to make this review. Cheers!

[@rolandkeith5322]

Very fair review on the 650 v star. Been a zx-14 owner and i have a xvs-650 as well I don't find the 650 to be under powered given what it is.Yes you do have to twist the hand a lot more to get the performance.... but it is there.

[@austin7was7here7]

I don’t know if I can take man advice from a dude in crocs lol. Nice video though!

[@rocket10racer]

Crocs are comfortable.

[@yorikvatral929]

Sandals with socks so comfortable for me, and yes, I don't care about other options, it is my comfort !)

[@_NoBuddyCares]

If you ain't crocin' you ain't rockin'

[@flashesofblack4128]

I have a 2011 V-Star 650 and find it to be a great motorcycle. I am an old man and have owned at least 50+ motorcycles in my life time from Harleys to BMW's to Jawa's and CZ's, and of course Honda, Yamahas and Kawasaki's. This bike fits all of my needs. For back highway riding I have a 2014 Yamaha XT 250 dual sport. This bike is light on the controls and will happily go all day at 65 MPH, BUT, beyond that I notice a slight vibration, nothing irritating but that seems to be for me its sweet spot. I know it is quite capable of higher speeds but 65 MPH is just fine for me. Great review and thanks!

[@maximilian1512]

Thank you so much, this really helped me. I will pick up one in the future.

[@chrysalisgear2670]

My wife has the 2001 XVS650 Classic outfitted to match my 2005 XVS1100 Silverado. They both have the Silverado windshield, passing lamps, front fender rail, studded bags, seats, backrest, bra with bib, highway bars, chrome fender tips, and all the chrome pieces we could find. They also have full spectrum LED accent lights placed all around the frame. I have no problem riding the 650, it has plenty of power, is smooth, and rides comfortably at any speed. I am 5'8", 225, and going 80 on the freeway is no problem. I agree with the folks who commented about not being concerned about what other people think. We love our bikes and they look great, in fact we get compliments all the time. Wife looks spectacular on hers. These bikes sound as good as they look.

[@Bonesnoff04]

I'm a skinny dude about 6' 170 lbs and my 650 is fine. I keep finding myself looking for another gear though.

[@michaelsmith1094]

Last Harley I owned was a four speed.

[@LuvMyRoadKingClassic]

Same here. Would be nice if it had another gear. The clutch drives me nuts. Common problem on these bikes. Need to let the clutch nearly all the way out before it grabs. Hard to do slow manuevers. Clutch is not out of adjustment.

[@flashesofblack4128]

I have a 2011 V-Star 650 and I agree,,,I hate the clutch! It is very hard to tell when the clutch is starting to bite and is very vague. This REALLY affects slow speed maneuvering. other wise this motorcycle is great except for its stinking clutch. Yamaha really goofed when their engineers designed the clutch cassette. I was going to replace the clutch plates until I heard other owners of this motorcycle echoing the same complaint.

[@yorikvatral929]

Same to me, the clutch is disappointing

[@rickmcgrath4202]

Put a smaller sprocket on it!

[@joelojacono6993]

I rode my 650 V-Star from Buffalo to DC to Richmond backup through Pennsylvania backup the buffalo. So I guess you can take these bikes on long trips and I'm a man that weighs 290 lb.

[@RobertBrumley60]

I can remember when a 650 Triumph or a Honda 750 Four was more than big enough for a man. lol I used to have a Honda CB 360 T that would do a hundred on the highway, however it scared me because it was so light. Felt like it was going air born.

[@robinlikes2learn]

Been through a series of bikes over the years, all Yamaha, and following a move to live in Spain on my retirement, I sold my Virago and bought a Yamaha 900cc Diversion at the ripe old age of 60, with a plan to do some continental touring on it (which I did over the next 12 years). Returning to the UK saw the Divvy not being used as much and on reaching 80 years of age in March 2022, I decided I needed something with a lower seat height and I didn't need as much power. I also wanted as close to as many of the features of my Divvy as possible - shaft drive, rear monoshock, air cooled engine etc....enter my Yamaha 650 V Star. This bike has fulfilled every need now - and hopefully will continue to do so for a good few more years. I'll let you know when I get to 90!

[@rocket10racer]

Bought an 07. I'm a big guy 285 lbs, and it handles me easily.

[@crimsonghost411]

How tall are you?

[@argonwheatbelly637]

99 V Star 650 Classic -- went everywhere. It was fine on the highway. 5'9" 185#. Back when I had it, I was much heavier, and this bike was still fine. Used it to commute to work, and took it on weekend trips up and down eastern PA, NJ, and NY.

[@TheWhiteGuy82]

A 650 is plenty big enough for a "man". I recently had my Honda Shadow Phantom 750 loaded up with 400 lbs of people and got it up to 100mph before it was maxed.

[@flashesofblack4128]

I just bought one of these bikes. It is a 2011 model. It effortlessly cruises at highway speeds but there is one thing I absolutely HATE about this bike. The clutch does not bite until the lever is about 80% of its total throw until it grabs. It is a little unpredictable when I know that the clutch discs are fully engaged. Other wise, it is truly a fine machine.

[@brucesantacory1390]

let's not forget until the Honda 750four most bikes were 650cc or smaller

[@rocket10racer]

Had a new 750 Bonneville Triumph in 76. Wouldn't keep up with this.

[@myself8643]

Just bought a 2003 for good price.Started out on a Yamaha rd 250 that would run close to 100 mph on the highway,graduated to an rd 400 that would do about 115 mph,then i got the classic kz 1000 that would do about 150 mph and did not feel like you were in a hurricane when you were riding at high speed,i think this 650 is one of the best bangs for the buck and everyone thinks it is larger than it really is and rides great,thanks for the video.

[@robertsalyers1351]

I'm just waiting for spring weather to see just how my 1100 V-Star handles the 22 mile trip to work every day....I'm sure it will be good but sometimes you just have to do it to be Sure

[@mikekeller2885]

I just purchased a 2010 Yamaha Vstar 650 with 2935 actual miles for $3800 on 08-26-2019 (time reference only). Previously I've owned a couple of HDs over the 1000cc mark. I personally feel more comfortable on Vstar, one I can hear myself think, and I now realize that there are trees along side of the road and its a comfort that when i get off the bike at a motel that has a real bed, Jacuzzi and restaurant I can pay cash, now that's a comfort in and of itself. Some you will say why a motel, lets say if your my age 75, you deserve some luxury.

[@IFIXUR360]

im subbing because you said pants dont go inside boots.

[@jetstream454]

Jeans? They go inside boots. Waterproof outers? Yes, they go outside.

[@borntobewild846]

I say put one pant leg in your boot and one pant leg out. That way you make everyone happy.

[@sjeverett75]

I rode an 05 vstar Classic for 10 years. I used to ride to San Antonio and Austin and never had problems on the freeway. I in rode plenty of poker runs 2up and was always good to go. I'd hit triple digits when I wanted to but it was happiest between 75 and 80. BTW fender to fender a 650 Classic is a hair longer than a Road King.

[@Yanuaradil]

While in japan, 4 wheel car just have 600cc

[@highsbury14]

NANI?!

[@johnh2055]

Thanks for this eval. Right now Im looking at a 650 V-star, mainly because it's the only thing I can find in my budget right now. Im a disabled vet, tired of living like a hermit in the house & need to get out for my own snaity, so my main priority for now is a good bike to get back out & about on.

[@robertsalyers1351]

Any of the Yamaha's would be a great idea I've just purchased a V-Star 1100 for little money. I've looked at the 950 and 1300

[@johnh2055]

@@robertsalyers1351 I just bought it Saturday. It's a 2006 Midnight Custom that the previous owner took really good care of, in fantastic shape ( just needs a fuel pump). Just over 10k miles, I picked it up for a grand.

[@kenwittlief255]

@@johnh2055 you can by pass the fuel pump, it will run normally as long as the tank is more than half full the fuel pump is needed because the carbs are higher than the bottom of the fuel tank

[@johnh2055]

@@kenwittlief255 I considered that but first I pulled the pump & soaked ot for a half hour in carb cleaner and it worked perfectly. Purring like a kitten now after I did that & cleaned/rebuilt the carbs.

[@Sam123QU29]

I got a 650 3months ago, love it to bits. Plan to put a hypercharger on it to give it that little extra nudge to feel more breeze in my hair

[@LDTjbph]

People ride 125s over here on motorways. So yes, 650 is enough.

[@TheInterloafer]

I just purchased this bike, in part because of this exact video. Thank you Sean from SRK Cycles for doing this thoughtful and candid review. I took mine on a busy highway in New York City (RFK Bridge + Major Deegan) for four of the bike's first eight miles, and it was as smooth and easy as you could imagine. It instantly felt like a big step up from my prior ride, an '09 Kawasaki Vulcan 500 (which I did love, BTW).

[@doranjaffas7351]

Is a 650 big enough???? Hmmm..let me thiink...I remember when the Honda 305 Dream was the biggest thing going except for some unreliable ( then ) Harleys. My Dad bought one new and it was big..at that time. My wife has a V-Star 650. Loaded. I owned an FLSTC when we bought it for her and once she received her license on it, she'd run away from the Harleys acceleration. I rode the V-Star with her on the back. I'm 200lbs and she..135lbs with gear. NO issues including Hi Way speeds. I took the bike to over 90mph and it still had plenty of pull. Excellent bike on all points. ps... My wife just said she agrees😁😁

[@jesusmejia3910]

Thats hilarious, because I just sold my 150 LXi Vespa a few weeks ago and I want a motorcycle. Ive been looking towards a Suzuki Boulevard, but also a Suzuki Bergman. But as fate would have it, i see this video. I'm a total fan of your bike reviews. I'm so thankful for them. Much love from Central California, city of Tulare 😎