amaha is showing its intention to give Harley Davidson a run for its money at the 72nd Annual Daytona Bike Week with a stripped down, old-school cruiser motorcycle at a budget price of only $7,900.
Dubbed the Bolt, the bike offers a basic and better-trimmed R-Spec form, fitted with a fuel-injected, air-cooled 950cc engine. As the photos show, the Bolt is devoid of chrome, relying instead on simple paint and metal surfaces. The body is a slim design, and overall weight is a modest 540 lbs (lighter by 73 lbs than the company's V Star 950 that uses a similar engine). In addition, the Bolt’s gas tank holds only 3.2 gallons compared to 4.5 gallons for the V Star 950. The seat is low at 27.2 inches, the speedometer is digital and the tail lamp is an LED. Disc brakes are in place front and rear, but ABS is not offered. “A disappointment for any new motorcycle design, more especially one that may attract less-experienced riders,” noted Consumer Reports.
This new model will be followed by the Bolt R-Spec, which will hit the marketplace in July with a mildly customized package offering different shocks, seat stitching, unique colors, and added graphics, for a price tag of $8,290.
According to Yamaha’s Star Motorcycles, its intention is to “create a basic canvas that enthusiasts can accessorize from their catalog.” While that may allow for an affordable custom, sticking to the basics is where you truly save money.
To learn more about the Bolt (as well as their other products) readers can contact Yamaha Motor Corp. USA at 6555 Katella Ave., Cypress, CA 90630, or call customer service at 800 656-7695.
Daytona Bike Week will continue from March 8-17 at Daytona Beach, Fl. For more information check out their website at www.officialbikeweek.com, or contact the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce at 386 255-0981.
Comments