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Yamaha XV 950 Racer
2018
2018
The 2018 Yamaha XV950 Racer emerges from a lineage of Yamaha's "Sport Heritage" models, aiming to fuse classic café racer aesthetics with modern reliability. This particular iteration, often seen as a stylish alternative to more traditional cruisers, found itself competing in a segment populated by machines like the Harley-Davidson Street Rod and the Triumph Street Twin. It offered a distinctive, sporty cruiser experience for riders seeking a blend of retro cool and accessible power.
At its heart, the XV950 Racer is propelled by a 942.0 ccm (57.48 cubic inches) V2, four-stroke engine. This air-cooled twin provides a respectable 51.4 HP (37.5 kW) at 5500 RPM, offering a usable powerband for everyday riding. Torque figures stand at 79.5 Nm (8.1 kgf-m or 58.6 ft.lbs) at 8100 RPM, suggesting a healthy pull through the mid-range. With a fuel capacity of 12.00 litres (3.17 US gallons), it provides a reasonable range for urban excursions and shorter road trips before needing a refill.
Riding the XV950 Racer is characterized by its unique ergonomic setup. The relatively low 765 mm (30.1 inches) seat height, combined with the clip-on handlebars and rearset footpegs, creates a forward-leaning, café racer-inspired riding position. This stance provides a more engaged feel than a typical cruiser, offering decent control for spirited cornering while still maintaining a degree of comfort. While not as aggressive as a dedicated sportbike, its setup leans towards a sportier experience than its more laid-back cruiser siblings, making it responsive to rider inputs.
The Yamaha XV950 Racer in its 2018 guise was primarily aimed at riders who appreciate classic motorcycle styling but desire modern reliability and a touch of sportiness. It appeals to those looking for a distinctive machine that stands apart from the crowd, offering a unique blend of a low-slung cruiser aesthetic with a slightly more aggressive riding posture. Its accessible power and torque make it suitable for both experienced riders and those looking to step up from smaller displacement motorcycles, seeking a characterful V-twin rumble without overwhelming power.
✅ Why buy this bike?
• Torquey V-twin engine provides satisfying acceleration and a classic cruiser feel for city and highway. • Excellent build quality and Yamaha reliability mean fewer headaches and lower long-term ownership costs. • Comfortable, relaxed riding position is suitable for longer journeys and daily commuting without excessive fatigue. • Agile handling for a cruiser, making it surprisingly capable in urban environments and light twisties. • Styling is distinctive and appealing, blending classic bobber aesthetics with modern touches. • Reasonable fuel economy for its class, making it a practical choice for regular riding.⚠️ Things to consider
• Limited ground clearance can scrape pegs easily when cornering aggressively, hindering spirited riding. • Suspension, particularly the rear, can be harsh over rougher roads, impacting long-distance comfort. • Braking performance, while adequate, isn't exceptional compared to more performance-oriented bikes. • Passenger comfort is compromised due to the small pillion pad, making two-up riding less enjoyable. • Minimal wind protection can be tiresome on sustained highway speeds, requiring an aftermarket screen.With 51 HP, requires full Class A license. Riders must be 24+ or have 2 years A2 experience (20+).
Manufacturer-quoted consumption: 5.00 litres/100 km (20.0 km/l or 47.04 mpg).
⛽ Tank: 12.00 litres (3.17 US gallons)
Insurance grouping for Yamaha XV 950 Racer (942cc):
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