Yamaha V-star 1100
The Yamaha V-star 1100 has a top speed of 175 km/h, produces 62 hp and weighs 272 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.5/10.
The Yamaha V-Star 1100 (known as the Dragstar 1100 in some markets) was introduced in 1999 as a mid-size cruiser designed to compete directly with Harley-Davidson's Softail lineup, featuring a classic V-twin cruiser aesthetic with modern Japanese reliability. It replaced the Virago 1100 and became one of Yamaha's most popular cruisers through the 2000s, praised for its smooth power delivery and comfortable ergonomics. Production continued until 2009, and it remains a highly regarded used cruiser known for its low maintenance costs and strong aftermarket support.
62 hp
Power
87 Nm
Torque
272 kg
Weight
175 km/h
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km or approximately 18 km/L (typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Strong Long-Term Reliability
The V-Star 1100's air-cooled V-twin engine is known for routinely exceeding 50,000–80,000 miles with basic maintenance. It's widely regarded as one of the most dependable bikes in the mid-size cruiser segment.
Watch the Final Drive
The shaft drive system can develop leaks or wear if fluid changes are neglected — always check for oil seepage around the rear drive housing before buying used. A well-maintained shaft drive, however, is virtually maintenance-free.
Slow Depreciation Curve
The V-Star 1100 holds its value unusually well for a mid-size cruiser, partly due to strong demand and a loyal owner community. Used models from the early 2000s still command $3,000–$5,000 in good condition.
Generations & Specs by Year
Single generation; no major redesigns. Minor color and cosmetic updates throughout production run.
"The reliable cruiser that never embarrasses you."
I put nearly 30,000 km on a 2003 V-Star 1100 and the thing never once left me stranded — that 1063cc V-twin just pulls cleanly from idle and keeps pulling, with that fat 83 Nm torque hit arriving low enough to make city riding genuinely satisfying. It's not a fast bike; 170 km/h is a theoretical ceiling you won't often visit, and highway passing requires planning, not spontaneity. The 690mm seat height is a genuine gift for shorter riders, and the ergonomics are so neutral you can ride all day without complaint, though the stock seat goes numb around hour three. My only real gripes are the two-valve SOHC setup that runs noticeably hot in slow traffic and a wet weight that makes parking lot maneuvering feel like wrestling a reluctant horse.
Pros
Cons
Used Buyer Review
"A dependable, unpretentious cruiser that rewards patient, practical riders."
$2,500-$5,000 usedThe V-Star 1100 is one of the most bulletproof cruisers you'll find on the used market, and Yamaha really got the basics right here. The air-cooled V-twin pulls smoothly from low revs, the shaft drive means zero chain maintenance headaches, and these things genuinely last well past 50,000 miles when properly serviced. For the money, it's hard to argue with the value proposition. That said, you need to go in with eyes open. The stock suspension is agricultural at best — it'll have you feeling every crack in the pavement, and the rear shock is particularly disappointing. Carburetor models need the usual jetting attention, especially if the previous owner left fuel sitting. Check the carb carefully on anything pre-2009. Also worth noting: the riding position is pure shadow-style cruiser, so if you're tall, you'll be cramped within an hour. Used prices are reasonable because there are loads of them out there. That's actually a good thing — parts are plentiful and any competent indie mechanic knows these bikes. Don't pay over $4,500 for anything under 30k miles.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Yamaha V-star 1100 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALHard starting, rough idle, fuel smell at carbs
Dim lights, dead battery, check voltage at idle
Uneven exhaust heat, popping on decel
Oil residue on lower fork tubes
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid, dependable cruiser if properly maintained
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Yamaha V-star 1100
Yamaha V-star 650
Honda Shadow Aero 750
Suzuki Intruder 800
Honda Vt750 Shadow Spirit
Yamaha V-star 950
Compare Yamaha V-star 1100 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Yamaha V-star 1100 vs Yamaha V-star 650
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha V-star 1100 vs Honda Shadow Aero 750
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha V-star 1100 vs Suzuki Intruder 800
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha V-star 1100 vs Honda Vt750 Shadow Spirit
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Yamaha V-star 1100 vs Yamaha V-star 950
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Yamaha V-star 1100? +
Carburetor clogging from ethanol fuel: Hard starting, rough idle, fuel smell at carbs (moderate) | Stator failure causing charging issues: Dim lights, dead battery, check voltage at idle (serious) | Rear cylinder running lean or hot: Uneven exhaust heat, popping on decel (moderate)
Is the Yamaha V-star 1100 a good motorcycle? +
A dependable, unpretentious cruiser that rewards patient, practical riders. Rating: 7.5/10. Best for: New-to-mid riders wanting reliable, low-drama cruising. Avoid if: You want sporty performance or highway touring comfort.
What is the horsepower of the Yamaha V-star 1100? +
The Yamaha V-star 1100 produces 62 hp @ 5,750 rpm, with 87 Nm @ 3,500 rpm of torque. Top speed: 175 km/h.
Is the Yamaha V-star 1100 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Yamaha V-star 1100 is a reasonable choice for new riders (62 hp is manageable), weighing 272 kg. New-to-mid riders wanting reliable, low-drama cruising
Is the Yamaha V-star 1100 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Yamaha V-star 1100, notably: Stator failure causing charging issues (Dim lights, dead battery, check voltage at idle). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Yamaha V-star 1100 good for daily use? +
New-to-mid riders wanting reliable, low-drama cruising Fuel: 5.5 L/100km or approximately 18 km/L (typical real-world average).
How fast is the Yamaha V-star 1100? +
The Yamaha V-star 1100 reaches a top speed of 175 km/h, producing 62 hp at 272 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Yamaha V-star 1100? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Yamaha V-star 1100, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/yamaha/v-star-1100/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
