Yamaha Roadliner 1900
The Yamaha Roadliner 1900 has a top speed of 185 km/h (estimated; electronically limited in some markets), produces 75 hp and weighs 338 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.8/10.
The Yamaha Roadliner (XV1900A) was introduced in 2006 as part of Yamaha's Star Cruiser lineup, featuring a purpose-built 1854cc air-cooled V-twin engine designed to compete directly with Harley-Davidson's big cruiser segment. It was notable for being one of the largest displacement V-twin cruisers offered by a Japanese manufacturer at the time, boasting a low-slung, long-wheelbase design with a distinctive retro-custom aesthetic. The Roadliner remained in production through 2014 and earned a reputation for smooth power delivery and reliable performance in the heavyweight cruiser class.
75 hp
Power
150 Nm
Torque
338 kg
Weight
185 km/h (estimated; electronically limited in some markets)
Top Speed
6.5 L/100km (approximately 15.4 km/L) — estimate based on typical owner reports
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Bulletproof 1900cc Engine
The Roadliner's 1854cc air-cooled V-twin (marketed as 1900) is known for exceptional long-term reliability, with many owners reporting 50,000+ miles with minimal issues when properly maintained.
Watch the Final Drive
The shaft drive system can develop leaks or wear issues around 30,000–40,000 miles, so always inspect the final drive housing and check service records before buying used.
Strong Resale Value
The Roadliner holds its value better than many cruiser competitors due to its premium build quality and limited production run, making it a solid long-term investment in the used market.
Generations & Specs by Year
Introduced 1854cc Star Roadliner with fuel injection, belt drive, and classic cruiser styling.
"Big, lazy torque monster that rewards patient riders."
That 1854cc V-twin pulls from basically idle — crack the throttle at 2,500 rpm in sixth and it just surges forward without complaint, which is addictive on long highway slogs. The fuel injection was well-sorted from day one, no stumbling or cold-start drama that plagued some carburetor-fed competitors. At 331 kg you feel the weight in parking lots and slow U-turns, but once rolling it carries itself surprisingly well, and that 700mm seat height means shorter riders can flat-foot it. My main gripe after two years: the vibration above 5,000 rpm gets genuinely uncomfortable on your hands and feet, but honestly, this engine never wants to be above 5,000 rpm anyway — it's built for rolling thunder, not redline chasing.
Pros
Cons
Used Buyer Review
"A drop-dead gorgeous cruiser that rewards patient, experienced riders handsomely."
$6,500-$11,000 usedThe Roadliner is one of those bikes that looks absolutely stunning in person but demands respect before you throw a leg over it. That 1900cc air-cooled V-twin produces lazy, torquey grunt that pulls hard from idle — it's genuinely effortless on the highway and sounds incredible with an aftermarket exhaust. Handling is better than the weight suggests, though don't expect sport bike agility when you're threading through tight switchbacks. Used examples from 2006-2011 are generally reliable, but do your homework. Check the fuel injection for hiccups at low throttle — early models had some stumble issues that dealers addressed but weren't always documented. Look for leaks around the primary cover and inspect the drive belt thoroughly. These bikes were often owned by weekend cruiser guys, so low mileage is common, which sounds great until you realize sitting idle causes its own problems. Demand a fresh service history.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Yamaha Roadliner 1900 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 2 CRITICALCheck battery voltage at idle, look for dim lights
Listen for ticking rattle first 30 seconds after cold start
Listen for fuel pump prime hum when key turns on
Check rear wheel spins freely, inspect caliper for corrosion
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid cruiser, electrical issues are main concern
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Yamaha Roadliner 1900
Yamaha Stratoliner 1900
Yamaha Road Star Warrior
Yamaha Raider 1900
Yamaha Road Star 1700
Honda Vtx1800
Compare Yamaha Roadliner 1900 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Yamaha Roadliner 1900 vs Yamaha Stratoliner 1900
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha Roadliner 1900 vs Yamaha Road Star Warrior
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha Roadliner 1900 vs Yamaha Raider 1900
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha Roadliner 1900 vs Yamaha Road Star 1700
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha Roadliner 1900 vs Honda Vtx1800
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Yamaha Roadliner 1900 Guides
More from Yamaha
View all Yamaha models →Community Reviews
Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Yamaha Roadliner 1900? +
Stator failure causes charging system dropout: Check battery voltage at idle, look for dim lights (serious) | Cam chain tensioner rattle on cold starts: Listen for ticking rattle first 30 seconds after cold start (moderate) | Fuel pump failure leaves rider stranded: Listen for fuel pump prime hum when key turns on (serious)
Is the Yamaha Roadliner 1900 a good motorcycle? +
A drop-dead gorgeous cruiser that rewards patient, experienced riders handsomely. Rating: 7.8/10. Best for: Experienced cruiser riders wanting highway touring comfort. Avoid if: New riders or anyone navigating tight urban traffic.
What is the horsepower of the Yamaha Roadliner 1900? +
The Yamaha Roadliner 1900 produces 75 hp @ 4,500 rpm (estimated; Yamaha did not officially publish output figures), with 150 Nm @ 2,500 rpm (estimated based on engine displacement and character) of torque. Top speed: 185 km/h (estimated; electronically limited in some markets).
Is the Yamaha Roadliner 1900 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Yamaha Roadliner 1900 is a reasonable choice for new riders (75 hp is manageable), weighing 338 kg. Experienced cruiser riders wanting highway touring comfort
Is the Yamaha Roadliner 1900 reliable? +
Owners report 2 critical issues to watch for on the Yamaha Roadliner 1900, notably: Stator failure causes charging system dropout (Check battery voltage at idle, look for dim lights). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Yamaha Roadliner 1900 good for daily use? +
Experienced cruiser riders wanting highway touring comfort Fuel: 6.5 L/100km (approximately 15.4 km/L) — estimate based on typical owner reports.
How fast is the Yamaha Roadliner 1900? +
The Yamaha Roadliner 1900 reaches a top speed of 185 km/h (estimated; electronically limited in some markets), producing 75 hp at 338 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Yamaha Roadliner 1900? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Yamaha Roadliner 1900, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/yamaha/roadliner-1900/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
