All these Harley-Davidson Riders who cry, complain, and sing the blues about foreign motorcycles let me tell you this. If you were to take all of the foreign parts off of your Harley Davidson you couldn't ride it.
I've been riding for over 50 years and owned and ridden dozens of bikes, including a 1975 FLH that I rode around Japan for three years(loved the bike, hated the constant repairs) a 1999 road star and now a 2006 1890 cc Stratoliner . The thing about "imports" and "rice burners" that Harley riders don't ever acknowledge is that, without those bikes becoming so popular in the states, HD would never have changed their build tolerances: it would still be inches instead of millimeters. They literally shook themselves to shit before they reached 50,000 miles. They still have one of the highest first year breakdowns requiring major repairs. So, now when people ask "Is that a Harley, I tell them "Yes, it's a Harley that works. It's a Yamaha." I understand the mystic and devotion but I'll stick with, faster, more reliable, and ten grand less than a comparable Harley Davidson. Now, let the derision and scorn rain down upon me...I can take it. Safe riding all, and watch out for the all crazies cause they sure ain't looking out for you!
Been riding from the sixties, had 8 harlys, all the british bikes ,gold wings,etc. my 2005 ,1700 Canadian Edition , Roadstar , two tone (black +chrome ) ,pretty much tops the list. Any stock hog can,t keep up and still getting 60 mpg. Running true duals with an Inhaler air cleaner . Ran it in all seasons ( sparingly in winter though ) without any problems . Way underestimated bike. Ceramic cyl. sleeves, gears (no chain primary ) ,led lighting ,etc. Very well finished ,just a terrific bike .
Need help with my gearbox I lost fifth gear in 4th gear. Yamaha said it's going to cost more than the bike is worth. Anybody know where any spare parts are?
Let me tell you, I own one, ive rode everything. Started to ride in 60s. My 05 Roadstar is maybe the best bikes I've owned. It's durability is better then any Harley I have ridden.
I have a 2005 1700 that I paid 2900$ 2 yrs ago, in amazing shape with 55k. It is an unbelievable bike, 2 up all the time, power to spare, easy handling. Killer deal, great bikes
The Road Star is probably the best cruiser ever built. I've seen a lot with over 100k miles on nothing but routine maintainence, and some even crack 200k. Yamaha does build great bikes, it's just a shame they're almost completely out of the cruiser market, except for the Bolt and the V Star 250. Meanwhile over at Harley, expect to rebuild your engine at 50k, and I am saying this as a guy who owns a 2020 HD Softail Standard
I sold my 2004 Harley Davidson fat boy for a 2004 road star after riding one and have never looked back 👍 better in every way. Thats the unfortunate truth
@@ryanbruneau1197 harley is just a company they put out sub par bikes for a premium price. you like the rest of the Harley CULT are simply brainwashed.
@@ryanbruneau1197 Harley Davidson is like Apple and Beats headphone. Yes they are great. Far from the best but God damn are they well marketed. You're literally paying for a name. They havent been truly American in many decades. I don't hate them. There are a few I personally want. But they are still just another bike.
When I got my 04 road star a good friend saw me riding it the first day and congratulated me on finally buying a Harley. He couldn’t believe he was wrong. He is a diehard Harley owner.
Yea harley actually sued over this line of bike because it was too similar in look an sound an were outperforming their bike i cant remember the year but the roadster line is a great line ibhave a rare roasterthey produce I have a 03 roaster silverado midnight star an id take it over any Harley
@@samuelhickman8158 the only issue I had was my fault. If I didn’t drive it hard enough and would drive 55 in the high gear it would run great and smooth but the valves will gum up and mine would actually drop one cylinder when started cold if you didn’t warm it up.
@@samuelhickman8158 yea,the roadstar came out in 1999. it had a few bugs in it,but was fixable. the roadstar 1700,came out in 2004, with all the recalls fixed.
I absolutely love love my 2000 Road Star 1600. Extremely dependable, comfortable, powerful.... have had it for 15 years and not once has it broke down on me, Unbelievable!
I own a 2007 Road Star 1700 Silverado and it rocks! I asked several people and did a little research on the net before making the purchase and everybody concluded that Yamaha was a good choice. I previously owned a BMW RT1100 and a Suzuki GS450 prior to that. I like the Road Star best so far.
Bought my first bike ever last year sept. got my 2007 roadstar for 3000. Custom paint, bags mustang seat, daybreaker headlight 1 piece rear signal/brake light, custom grips. Bub exhaust. Love it. 39yrs old and first time riding
I'm on year 4 on my 2001 roadstar, I ride w/ dedicated Harley owners,, they started calling it ol reliable cause I ride it constantly and other than oil/filter changes all I've ever done is rear tires, and I'm being 100 percent truthful, Great bike !!!!!!
I understand why people hate imported items, unsecured people. Yes HD will be always the biggest name, but I don't have 10k or 15k to spend in a bike. I bought a Kawasaki Vulcan Nomad 1,500cc with 6k miles for $3,000. Really happy to move out from HD
I have a 2004 Yamaha road star 1700 that I ride everyday. it runs great and im looking for a fairing so I can take it on a long ride. I paid 3,500. great bikes that last along time
Great dealership. Bought this bike last week. Came in to take a look at it with my wife. Caleb wasn’t pushy just answered my questions give me all the time that I needed to talk about it with my wife and made the deal that we were both happy with. This bike was even cleaner in real life than what it appears in their videos. Love everything about it. The only issue is fuel sending unit is bad but there was no way for them to know as they keep very little fuel in their bikes for storage. I was also happy to see that the bike that I traded in was put up for sale about $1,000 more then what they gave me for it. That explains why they don’t negotiate much on their prices.
I absolutely live my roady, those bars are a bit much. If you look my icon is my 06 baby. It is a very fun bike to ride and plenty of power. I bought mine with 4500 miles on it for 3k three years ago. Have put 20k miles on it since and will probably never get rid of it. Great review by the way, need to get up to your shop and check out your inventory.
I have a 1700 road star and before this had a 1900 stratoliner. They are both beasts. Have nothing to complain about Yamaha bikes. They are affordable and you can customize to your liking with the money you saved by not buying a HD.
I don't know why they're less than 5k. I also don't know why I can find them with under 20,000 miles for $3,500, but what I do know is these bikes sound good, make gobs of torque, looks good, and they all last longer than any other bike I've ever heard of, owned or seen. These Road Stars have gone 200,000+ miles without a rebuild. That's insane to me
Yup ,could be because the cylinders are ceramic lined ,gears instead of primary chains etc. ,etc. Owned several harlies myself , these bikes are built by Japan ,but you,ve got to give credit where credit is due, they know how to put bikes together to perform and last ,they ain,t shabby to look at either , Harley just has another build philosofy
I bought a 2000 Roadstar right off the showroom floor paid cash - had the exhaust pipes changed to longshots before I rode it away. 87k miles later after using it as my only transportation I made the mistake of trading it in on a FatBoy just because of the deal I got on it. Before I reached home I realized that even with the 87k on the Roadstar I had traded a better bike than what I rode home.
I recently picked up a 07 roadstar for just under 3k with 16000 miles on it. Its an awsome bike. Ride 2 up without a problem at all. Love power and sound!
@@jesusacovarrubias1390 .... I use SeaFoam regularly on my 2005 Roadstar. It works GREAT on cleaning the carbs. Every other tank of gas, add 1 or 2 ounces of SeaFoam ... DONE ! You'll never have to think about the carbs again
my 04,silverado has over 200,000 miles on it and still has the factory drive belt on it. i have a spare, just in case, i bought 10years ago. yamaha has no service replacement mileage for the belt.
I have a 2009 fuel injected 1700. Love it. I like bikes not stuck on brands . Did not want to spend all the money for a Harley. got it to ride not an investment.
I have an 07 Road Star.. I love it. I’ve Always owned Japanese bikes, and I see No Reason to get rid of this Awesome machine and buy an overpriced Harley. My Road Star has 23K miles and I paid $1200 for it; deal of the Century! It is Gorgeous and powerful and I will have it for Years.
I just bought an '03 1600 Midnight Star off Craigslist for $300. Apparently it was crashed, the impound guy bought it, replaced rear fender, parked it inside until building burned, then he parked it outside for a year in Phx. I got it and so far, cleaned the carb, cleaned rust from tank and fixed a stripped spark plug hole. After learning about the compression release, it started up second kick. Haven't put it on the road yet but have ridden it around some. Initial thoughts "Damn! it runs as good as it looks and it looks great". I have an 04 RoadGlide that rides like a dream, I think this one might be better. For those that want to compare it to a Harley, you get more friends with a Harley. You get stories from people that rode Harleys back in the 30's and 40's.
I bought a 2001 Midnight Star. Soon after a friend brought his Road King over and a bunch of us rode each. Everybody enjoyed the Midnight Star over the Road King. It's 2022 and I still have the bike with 88,000 miles and have only replaced the clutch. The bike is awesome and RELIABLE!
I'l never understand why somebody would want to ape hanger a bike... ya just look plain goofy with your arms up there like that. To make it right its going to need cables and the wiring worked back behind the steering neck ... Pain in the Ass Kinda thing your buddy that doesn't really have a bike convinces you to do while your on your 12 th beer late one friday night and for some unexplicable reason you follow thru on it without much thought...
@@blockeduser5769 depends on the user. im 6 3 so i need a higher set of bars a 16" ape hanger puts my bars directly in front of me. ya theres idiots who use sky high apes to show off tho.
Lizard I hear ya , the seating position just doesn't look as cool to me. Everybodys got an oppinion I'm just partial to the leaning over and tuckin in factory look. But some like to sit back on the cruisers with the hi-way pegs. We need more people out there riding what ever makes them happy ...
Here in 2024. Picked one up not running for $2200 with 19k miles. 2002. Got it running yesterday and today I'm taking it to the Christian Motorcycle Rally here in Arizona! So excited!
My girl just picked one of these up, same color and all. had 21k miles, came with all kinds of extra parts and a spare starter, and 2 seats plus it's all blacked out, she paid 3200. I think it was a more than fair price. Definitely a great bike, has no mechanical problems. The only thing that needed "fixed" was that it needed a new clutch cable, and the previous owner had an adjustable rear dogbone to lower the bike, but he gave us the stock one which I had to put on for her. I am a Harley guy, pretty much only harley for me, but I can appreciate these road stars. Definitely a fun bike.
I have a 04' roadstar and its mid 2019 I love my bike o have straight pipes with the ais delete , custom intake with batwing fairings it rides nice and so comfortable. With the value your rite I got mine on a amazing deal $2200 the guy was hurting I will never go to another bike
Ive got a 2007 Yamaha vstar 1300 and it is a blast. Nuff room for my honey and plenty of pull. It sounds great and it oozes cool. All for under $3000.00. Only one word for that... SHAAAAWEEEET!!!
Dachaman2001 - I have the same Roadstar. bought brand new 11/2007. As of this date (01/2021) have 81+K miles on the clock. When I totaled my 02 1600 midnight, I was debating to hold out for the 2008 EFI model (1st year) until they informed me it'd be 04/2008 release date.. Nope... not withholding "wind therapy" 5 months! I've done all the maintenance on my RS (with the exception of 1 value adjustment (at 24K miles) and a Stator/rectifier replacement under warranty (at 58K).
Bought my 1600cc 2000 Road Star MM Ltd. in 2011 for $4000. It had less than 12K on it (it's got juuuust a bit more now, lol), and is still the single best long haul bike I've ever owned, ten years on! Anyone who dumps on these badass cruisers, just because "they're nothing but wannabe Harleys"? Is WAY too hung up on brand names, and not paying attention to what's happening betwixt their legs....Yamaha did this one RIGHT.
My 99 1600 just crossed 30k miles and she runs killer...its black with blue flames and skulls. Swapping bars and a 21in wheel next week. Going with 10in apes or meathook
Just bout an 02 Silverado 1600 as my first bike. I’ve been on bikes my whole life, and ridden before. But. Yeah. They’re amazing. Not for the faint of heart
I have an xv1600A Road Star. I'm 64 & started riding a 125 Puch at 12 years old. Wanted a comparable Harley as did my GFbut we just couldn't afford the price dif. Mine has 70,000 miles on it. Bought it for less than $3000. Starts, runs, and rides great. It's frequently mistaken for a Harley. My second roadstar. Great ride.
I got a 2001 with 16,450 miles for $2100. I’ve driven it from Atlanta to North Carolina and back. I was a HD fanboy for a while until I got this one for resale and wound up keeping it. Sold the HD. Ha
I have an 09... Which is fuel injected, it has a full BUB 21/2" header system, fuel tuner, BAK, and I've had numerous comments that my Roadstar sounds as good if not better than a Harley, and it will hang with them with my wife on the back, and believe that's the truth, it's a beautifully handling bike all around, we find ourselves riding it more often that our 07 Roadking
Many people looking to get into riding would do well to look at a good used metric bike over a Harley. Easier to maintain, reliable, higher performance, and you're not out 20-30K if you discover like so many that you don't ride much and it starts collecting dust in the garage.
i own HD Electra Glide ultra 1987 , Night train 2007 and yamaha XVS650 . from all 3 bikes i love XVS650 the most . everything cheaper from maintenance to fuel and insurance .it did not broke , did not leak , and very comfortable to ride .
I have a 99' road star Silverado. Have had her about 6 months now, put about 4k miles on her. When I got her, she had about 35,500. Great bike. Love it! But I can rider her for a solid three hours on a 90 degree day. Pull over for a hour or so to get a bite to eat. Before she will fire up I have to put the choke on. Not a problem, just saying I think they can be a tad cold natured. Or maybe just mine is a cold hearted "B" But ay, ill never tell her that though, HaHa
I work on bikes for a living Ive ridden just about every harley and metric cruiser model out there, I love my 2002 roadstar, I did high compression pistons ecm big carb ported intake vance & hines 2 into one (wanted to go for the cam kit but patrics cant get the dang ceramic coated lifters anymore) and Im a little quicker than any tuned harley in similar size,, my only complaint is the suspension is a little too soft for my slightly aggressive riding style but it is very comfortable and smooth cruising..
Bought my 2005 Roadstar Silverado Midnight brand new, before I left the dealer I had a set of “Hardchrome” (brand name) drag pipes installed. Have not ever heard a Harley that had better sound than my bike.
My dad had a Yamaha road star and it was a fantastic bike. I went with a Kawasaki 1600 for the liquid cooling. If I'm going to ride metric i prefer liquid cooled
Amazing motorcycle! I own a 2001 roadstar 1600 I paid $2,500 with 16,885 miles on it. Best bike I’ve ever owned. Just waiting to put some apes on mine. Cheers riders!
Great bike. My best friend and American Legion Rider Tommy Fordham just passed away while riding his 2013 Yamaha Roadstar on the Dragon's Tail in Tennessee on Thursday. I can verify that it was fuel injected.
Thank you for the thoughts and prayers, D L and everyone. He was able to pass doing what he loved with the people that he loved around him, and from what I understand, it was quick, so no suffering. We should all be so fortunate, but still, this world is a darker place with him not in it.
The history of American GI's leaving their service Harleys in Japan created a huge appreciation of the large American cruiser. The sound build quality and durability of this bike is a reflection of that.
I have never ridden a Harley. I have however ridden a roadstar 1700. Picked my 07 up with 32k on it back in 2019 for $ 3500. I get asked a lot by Harley guys why I bought my bike over a Harley. Well simple. Price and Power. Every bike in my price range including Harley’s just were in my opinion gutless. When I got mine it made 87hp and 107ftlbs of tourqe. Harley’s were in the high 50s low 60s with similar weight to it in my price range. The Harley’s all had closer to 60k for milage as well. Most of the Harley guys I ride with I out preform them in the corners and on the straight aways it’s no contest. Paired with a nice Vance and Hines exhaust definitely helps make it sound amazing and loud. I have put close to 20k on mine in a few seasons and is nothing to go 150 miles without getting off the seat. I do have a advantage of having a weight of 150lbs fully dressed which helps me move down the road a bit quicker. I have had to replace tires breaks and the clutch and fuel pump. Otherwise just routine maintenance and my upgrades I have added to it. Theses are very customizable bikes and I highly recommend picking up one even if u are a Harley guy. A true biker can appreciate great craftsmanship no matter who makes it.
I have a Dyna Wide Glide also 2 other Japanese bikes. The Harleys are so ridiculously over priced and the Japanese make bikes to last that anyone can afford. I love my Harley but Im multi fauceted. Im also a heavy duty mechanic by trade so I can appreciate quality products. Give credit where its due. There is a reason why Yamaha has been the number one manufacturer in the world !
Hey, came in here to watch a video; that made me smile when talked about the R.S. being a big bike; a man's bike. I'm 4'11", weigh 128#--I ride a Yam Roadstar 1600 ! But u r right, I can only lift it 3/4 the way up. Fell once I LOVE IT!! Have short Vance & Hines on it, have it idled down so that it has the really really throaty deeeep sound. When it's idling, U might think it is going to die, LOL, cuz it reminds me of a long stroke engine !! It goes..BBLLLOPE,ppp, pp BBLLLOPE, ppp,pp..... really slow 🤩. Downshift esp awesome, tho can hear the rich sound whole time. SOO MUCH MORE BIKE w/o repairs & downtime than HD !!! And I put my sound against anyone's & be BETTER !! Is painted Synergy Green w/ Pink stripes to match my Camaro ! What?? I'm a GIRL !! Lmao wish could post pic. Safe riding!!
These bikes have to carry at least 8lbs of oil pressure at idle witch is right around 8 to 900 rpms turning idle down will burn your top end out be careful
I bought the first year 1999 Roadstar 1600 new when it came out loved that bike my current is a 2002 VTX 1800 love the Honda too I've never owned a Harley but ride with family and friends who own them and my bikes are more dependable and out perform thiers
Had a 03 for ten care free years , sold it and bought a Road King , both great bikes. Prob. Could have kept the Yamaha but RK is a easier and better handing bike.
I've got the 05 Roadstar midnight Silverado and I absolutly love it. 100% agree with all that you said about the Roadstar. I wanted a big bike and it fit my needs perfectly. Sure its a heavy bike, but that doesnt bother me. And ya gotta love the bigger gas tank, you dont have to stop to refuel as often. Its a great looking and great sounding bike.
Owned and ridden my 2004 Roadstar 1700 for years with bike groups and solo. This bike has been zero repairs or roadside breakdowns and keeps up easily with any American made bike for 1/3 the cost in purchase and 1/10tht the cost in repairs anmd maintenance...
As of this time you can't just sue someone for making a better product than yours. But the way things are going in our judicial system,. who knows that may change. I do however find it ironic that Harley finally utilized a four valve head like the Roadstar has had since it's creation in 1999 for the M8. I haven't ridden an M8, but those that have seem to think it's the best engine Harley's made yet. Coincidence, I think not. I'm not bashing, I like all bikes. I'm just bringing the facts to light. Ride Safe
Old video, but i love my wildstar. Even stock is good but i also turbocharged my carburated 1999, got revmaster, barnett clutch and roadwing rear shock. With 100hp/200nm from tire it's si cosy to ride and goes like train. One of the best bang for a buck cruisers
Just recently bought one. I haven't ridden her yet because of paperwork. Bit as soon as it sorted out? Yes I'm ridding and thanks for a great video. I actually have the Vance and Hines Long Shots sound clips on my page.
I own 4 bikes. My roadstar has been to the arctic circle and back from Kansas without any issues.
Bullet proof engine.
Do a little research on Yamaha Motors throughout Motor Vehicles. You'll be surprised. It is not Just motorcycles four-wheelers, toys Etc.
@Willy VR
Ha ha ha... it gets pretty nice up there in the summer months. I'm sure he didn't go in January.
You mean Nebraska?
stay frosty my friend
Dang man, tell the truth!! Dont be lying!!!!
All these Harley-Davidson Riders who cry, complain, and sing the blues about foreign motorcycles let me tell you this.
If you were to take all of the foreign parts off of your Harley Davidson you couldn't ride it.
Savage
Truth
Truth.
...but HD's, they are the targeted bike fuur shuuur.
That's true but I ain't gonna hate on one
Ha ha sheeples
Iv own 4 Harley’s in my past.
I tested a Road Star. I bought it. Very comfortable. Great handling. Great price. Best bike for me
I've been riding for over 50 years and owned and ridden dozens of bikes, including a 1975 FLH that I rode around Japan for three years(loved the bike, hated the constant repairs) a 1999 road star and now a 2006 1890 cc Stratoliner . The thing about "imports" and "rice burners" that Harley riders don't ever acknowledge is that, without those bikes becoming so popular in the states, HD would never have changed their build tolerances: it would still be inches instead of millimeters. They literally shook themselves to shit before they reached 50,000 miles. They still have one of the highest first year breakdowns requiring major repairs.
So, now when people ask "Is that a Harley, I tell them "Yes, it's a Harley that works. It's a Yamaha."
I understand the mystic and devotion but I'll stick with, faster, more reliable, and ten grand less than a comparable Harley Davidson. Now, let the derision and scorn rain down upon me...I can take it.
Safe riding all, and watch out for the all crazies cause they sure ain't looking out for you!
I bought an '05 Road Star Silverado back in April and I'm very happy with it! You get a lot of bike for the money.
Road Star is probably all around best bike for me, when you take into consideration reliability, sound, size, power and price.
Been riding from the sixties, had 8 harlys, all the british bikes ,gold wings,etc. my 2005 ,1700 Canadian Edition , Roadstar , two tone (black +chrome ) ,pretty much tops the list. Any stock hog can,t keep up and still getting 60 mpg. Running true duals with an Inhaler air cleaner . Ran it in all seasons ( sparingly in winter though ) without any problems . Way underestimated bike. Ceramic cyl. sleeves, gears (no chain primary ) ,led lighting ,etc. Very well finished ,just a terrific bike .
It sounds like it's gonna die at idle.
Need help with my gearbox I lost fifth gear in 4th gear. Yamaha said it's going to cost more than the bike is worth. Anybody know where any spare parts are?
@@cecilsabourin9462well said just a great bike
Let me tell you, I own one, ive rode everything. Started to ride in 60s. My 05 Roadstar is maybe the best bikes I've owned. It's durability is better then any Harley I have ridden.
the roadstar became injected in 2008. my 04 roadstar,min-nite Silverado has over 200,000 miles on it.
I have a 2005 1700 that I paid 2900$ 2 yrs ago, in amazing shape with 55k. It is an unbelievable bike, 2 up all the time, power to spare, easy handling. Killer deal, great bikes
Jeff Swisher I may be buying one tomorrow all decked out with 45km on it for $2400 .. I started with a Vstar two years ago
I just saw a '05 with 20k for $1500, wondering how quickly I should jump on it.
I just bought an 05 roadstar silverado with 9k miles on it for $3k US.
I paid $2750 for a 02 roadstar warrior. With 22,000.00 miles
The Road Star is probably the best cruiser ever built. I've seen a lot with over 100k miles on nothing but routine maintainence, and some even crack 200k. Yamaha does build great bikes, it's just a shame they're almost completely out of the cruiser market, except for the Bolt and the V Star 250.
Meanwhile over at Harley, expect to rebuild your engine at 50k, and I am saying this as a guy who owns a 2020 HD Softail Standard
I sold my 2004 Harley Davidson fat boy for a 2004 road star after riding one and have never looked back 👍 better in every way. Thats the unfortunate truth
hayden wolsley There has been many imposters but only one HARLEY DAVIDSON
@@ryanbruneau1197 harley is just a company they put out sub par bikes for a premium price. you like the rest of the Harley CULT are simply brainwashed.
@@ryanbruneau1197 Harley Davidson is like Apple and Beats headphone. Yes they are great. Far from the best but God damn are they well marketed. You're literally paying for a name. They havent been truly American in many decades. I don't hate them. There are a few I personally want. But they are still just another bike.
@@spark669 i've had a road star....nice but i still want a HD road king
I've had new ,old , restored Harley's and enjoyed them but I love my Road Star. !!!!!
I've been riding 50 yrs.this year and have owned many bikes.I've owned 2 Roadstars, my current '04 I've owned for 8 years.These are excellent bikes !
I lost fifth gear and 4th gear I need a new gearbox from the idea about parts? 99' model..
When I got my 04 road star a good friend saw me riding it the first day and congratulated me on finally buying a Harley. He couldn’t believe he was wrong. He is a diehard Harley owner.
i still get that a lot
Yea harley actually sued over this line of bike because it was too similar in look an sound an were outperforming their bike i cant remember the year but the roadster line is a great line ibhave a rare roasterthey produce I have a 03 roaster silverado midnight star an id take it over any Harley
@@samuelhickman8158 the only issue I had was my fault. If I didn’t drive it hard enough and would drive 55 in the high gear it would run great and smooth but the valves will gum up and mine would actually drop one cylinder when started cold if you didn’t warm it up.
@@samuelhickman8158 yea,the roadstar came out in 1999. it had a few bugs in it,but was fixable. the roadstar 1700,came out in 2004, with all the recalls fixed.
I have a 2004 Road Star 1700. Got it for $4000 with 10,000 miles on it. LOVE IT! Im looking at a 16 Road King but not getting rid of the Star.
I absolutely love love my 2000 Road Star 1600. Extremely dependable, comfortable, powerful.... have had it for 15 years and not once has it broke down on me, Unbelievable!
Same here- They talk about the choke on a cool day-a ripped Air Filter replacement “WOKE” my bike “UP”
A fella at work stopped riding and sold me his 2000 roadstar for $1,200 after it had sat for a couple years.
I own a 2007 Road Star 1700 Silverado and it rocks! I asked several people and did a little research on the net before making the purchase and everybody concluded that Yamaha was a good choice. I previously owned a BMW RT1100 and a Suzuki GS450 prior to that. I like the Road Star best so far.
Have a 2006 Midnight Star. Have never had a problem as yet (owned since 2010). Reliable as heck. Very comfortable for big folks.
Bought my first bike ever last year sept. got my 2007 roadstar for 3000. Custom paint, bags mustang seat, daybreaker headlight 1 piece rear signal/brake light, custom grips. Bub exhaust. Love it. 39yrs old and first time riding
I'm on year 4 on my 2001 roadstar, I ride w/ dedicated Harley owners,, they started calling it ol reliable cause I ride it constantly and other than oil/filter changes all I've ever done is rear tires, and I'm being 100 percent truthful, Great bike !!!!!!
Heyyyyyy
I remember that 2005 and the 2002 you had in 2015. Man them Road Stars are beautiful!
I understand why people hate imported items, unsecured people. Yes HD will be always the biggest name, but I don't have 10k or 15k to spend in a bike. I bought a Kawasaki Vulcan Nomad 1,500cc with 6k miles for $3,000. Really happy to move out from HD
In 89 I traded a 750 Vulcan on a new Sportster, ten miles later I hated myself
I have a 2004 Yamaha road star 1700 that I ride everyday. it runs great and im looking for a fairing so I can take it on a long ride. I paid 3,500. great bikes that last along time
ua-cam.com/video/lcl_rchgM20/v-deo.html
Fuel injection models started in 2008. My father in law had a 2009. I rode a LOT. Fell in love with it, great bike
Great dealership. Bought this bike last week. Came in to take a look at it with my wife. Caleb wasn’t pushy just answered my questions give me all the time that I needed to talk about it with my wife and made the deal that we were both happy with. This bike was even cleaner in real life than what it appears in their videos. Love everything about it. The only issue is fuel sending unit is bad but there was no way for them to know as they keep very little fuel in their bikes for storage. I was also happy to see that the bike that I traded in was put up for sale about $1,000 more then what they gave me for it. That explains why they don’t negotiate much on their prices.
What pipes are they? I'd love to buy some for mine!
I'd also like to know, he says Cobra in the video. They sure as hell sound better than the V and H Longshots on my 1600.
This is a great bike. I own one for 12 years and works still like new. I am not thinking to replace it.
I absolutely live my roady, those bars are a bit much. If you look my icon is my 06 baby. It is a very fun bike to ride and plenty of power. I bought mine with 4500 miles on it for 3k three years ago. Have put 20k miles on it since and will probably never get rid of it. Great review by the way, need to get up to your shop and check out your inventory.
I have a 1700 road star and before this had a 1900 stratoliner. They are both beasts. Have nothing to complain about Yamaha bikes. They are affordable and you can customize to your liking with the money you saved by not buying a HD.
I don't know why they're less than 5k. I also don't know why I can find them with under 20,000 miles for $3,500, but what I do know is these bikes sound good, make gobs of torque, looks good, and they all last longer than any other bike I've ever heard of, owned or seen. These Road Stars have gone 200,000+ miles without a rebuild. That's insane to me
Yup ,could be because the cylinders are ceramic lined ,gears instead of primary chains etc. ,etc. Owned several harlies myself , these bikes are built by Japan ,but you,ve got to give credit where credit is due, they know how to put bikes together to perform and last ,they ain,t shabby to look at either , Harley just has another build philosofy
I bought a 2000 Roadstar right off the showroom floor paid cash - had the exhaust pipes changed to longshots before I rode it away. 87k miles later after using it as my only transportation I made the mistake of trading it in on a FatBoy just because of the deal I got on it. Before I reached home I realized that even with the 87k on the Roadstar I had traded a better bike than what I rode home.
I recently picked up a 07 roadstar for just under 3k with 16000 miles on it. Its an awsome bike. Ride 2 up without a problem at all. Love power and sound!
I have 100k miles on mine and still roll 120 mph anytime I want
thats awesome
ZEUS 406 do you use any has treatment like Seafoam or something like that, that I read about?
@@jesusacovarrubias1390 ....
I use SeaFoam regularly on my 2005 Roadstar. It works GREAT on cleaning the carbs.
Every other tank of gas, add 1 or 2 ounces of SeaFoam ... DONE !
You'll never have to think about the carbs again
I just bought an 09 Road Star S with 8k miles for $3,500! Thanks for the great video!
I have an 2004 roadstar with 92,000 miles and still running strong, oil, tires and a belt is all it’s ever needed
my 04,silverado has over 200,000 miles on it and still has the factory drive belt on it. i have a spare, just in case, i bought 10years ago. yamaha has no service replacement mileage for the belt.
I have a 2009 fuel injected 1700. Love it. I like bikes not stuck on brands . Did not want to spend all the money for a Harley. got it to ride not an investment.
I have an 07 Road Star.. I love it. I’ve Always owned Japanese bikes, and I see No Reason to get rid of this Awesome machine and buy an overpriced Harley. My Road Star has 23K miles and I paid $1200 for it; deal of the Century! It is Gorgeous and powerful and I will have it for Years.
I just bought an '03 1600 Midnight Star off Craigslist for $300. Apparently it was crashed, the impound guy bought it, replaced rear fender, parked it inside until building burned, then he parked it outside for a year in Phx. I got it and so far, cleaned the carb, cleaned rust from tank and fixed a stripped spark plug hole. After learning about the compression release, it started up second kick. Haven't put it on the road yet but have ridden it around some. Initial thoughts "Damn! it runs as good as it looks and it looks great". I have an 04 RoadGlide that rides like a dream, I think this one might be better. For those that want to compare it to a Harley, you get more friends with a Harley. You get stories from people that rode Harleys back in the 30's and 40's.
Everybody complaining about the bars must have forgotten those are easily changed. You could probably trade them even up to someone that likes them.
Thanks for the test rides I haven't had a bike in 25yrs after watching your test rides I got another bike thanks
I bought a 2001 Midnight Star. Soon after a friend brought his Road King over and a bunch of us rode each. Everybody enjoyed the Midnight Star over the Road King. It's 2022 and I still have the bike with 88,000 miles and have only replaced the clutch. The bike is awesome and RELIABLE!
Cool bike but I just can't get past the bars - those appeal to some but not me
I'l never understand why somebody would want to ape hanger a bike... ya just look plain goofy with your arms up there like that. To make it right its going to need cables and the wiring worked back behind the steering neck ... Pain in the Ass Kinda thing your buddy that doesn't really have a bike convinces you to do while your on your 12 th beer late one friday night and for some unexplicable reason you follow thru on it without much thought...
monkeydude3987 Agreed.
I find drag bars most comfortable. Apehangers look like they'd be very awkward.
@@blockeduser5769 depends on the user. im 6 3 so i need a higher set of bars a 16" ape hanger puts my bars directly in front of me. ya theres idiots who use sky high apes to show off tho.
Lizard I hear ya , the seating position just doesn't look as cool to me. Everybodys got an oppinion I'm just partial to the leaning over and tuckin in factory look. But some like to sit back on the cruisers with the hi-way pegs. We need more people out there riding what ever makes them happy ...
Here in 2024. Picked one up not running for $2200 with 19k miles. 2002. Got it running yesterday and today I'm taking it to the Christian Motorcycle Rally here in Arizona! So excited!
My girl just picked one of these up, same color and all. had 21k miles, came with all kinds of extra parts and a spare starter, and 2 seats plus it's all blacked out, she paid 3200. I think it was a more than fair price. Definitely a great bike, has no mechanical problems. The only thing that needed "fixed" was that it needed a new clutch cable, and the previous owner had an adjustable rear dogbone to lower the bike, but he gave us the stock one which I had to put on for her. I am a Harley guy, pretty much only harley for me, but I can appreciate these road stars. Definitely a fun bike.
I own an 04 road star that I Bought for 2000 bucks and only had 2500 miles on it. Such a comfortable ride with the beach bar handlebars I love it
I have one. Love it. And all my Harley friends thinks it sounds like one. Paid 4,000 for it with 12,000 miles.
There was a law suit on that! The Roadie is also a single pin crank!
I bought my 2003 brand new in 03 I've just turned 11000 miles on it and have rode it more this year than any other yet. I love it
I have a 04' roadstar and its mid 2019 I love my bike o have straight pipes with the ais delete , custom intake with batwing fairings it rides nice and so comfortable. With the value your rite I got mine on a amazing deal $2200 the guy was hurting I will never go to another bike
The Road Star has always had a great sound! I've seen them as low as $2500
Thats what I bought mine for; bags, screen, cobra pipes, 23k miles
Just bought one for $1800, was a cold ass 20 degree, 3 and a half hour ride home 😆
@@bidness I bet that was a cold ride. Good deal on the $1800 buy.
Fixing to pick up my first one for 2500 with only 8000 miles 2003 model
Ive got a 2007 Yamaha vstar 1300 and it is a blast. Nuff room for my honey and plenty of pull. It sounds great and it oozes cool. All for under $3000.00. Only one word for that... SHAAAAWEEEET!!!
I love my 99, picked it up for $2500 last year
Fuel injection came in 08. I have a red 06 and a 12 Electra Glide. I still love riding my Road Star!
That bike does sound good keep up the good work and ride safe
I just seen this video and had to say, I have an 04 and many people have said to me , that's a nice sounding Harley. So there you have it. God Bless.
2008 was when they went fuel injection mine is a 2007 R* midnight Silverado carb the last yr for it
Also have a 2007 here in Oz, Harley folks look down on you until you breeze by and they paid 20k more .
Dachaman2001 - I have the same Roadstar. bought brand new 11/2007. As of this date (01/2021) have 81+K miles on the clock.
When I totaled my 02 1600 midnight, I was debating to hold out for the 2008 EFI model (1st year) until they informed me it'd be 04/2008 release date.. Nope... not withholding "wind therapy" 5 months! I've done all the maintenance on my RS (with the exception of 1 value adjustment (at 24K miles) and a Stator/rectifier replacement under warranty (at 58K).
Bought my 1600cc 2000 Road Star MM Ltd. in 2011 for $4000. It had less than 12K on it (it's got juuuust a bit more now, lol), and is still the single best long haul bike I've ever owned, ten years on! Anyone who dumps on these badass cruisers, just because "they're nothing but wannabe Harleys"? Is WAY too hung up on brand names, and not paying attention to what's happening betwixt their legs....Yamaha did this one RIGHT.
My 99 1600 just crossed 30k miles and she runs killer...its black with blue flames and skulls. Swapping bars and a 21in wheel next week. Going with 10in apes or meathook
Love those bikes can’t beat em for the price just great bikes
Just bout an 02 Silverado 1600 as my first bike. I’ve been on bikes my whole life, and ridden before. But. Yeah. They’re amazing. Not for the faint of heart
I have an xv1600A Road Star. I'm 64 & started riding a 125 Puch at 12 years old. Wanted a comparable Harley as did my GFbut we just couldn't afford the price dif. Mine has 70,000 miles on it. Bought it for less than $3000. Starts, runs, and rides great. It's frequently mistaken for a Harley. My second roadstar. Great ride.
I got a 2001 with 16,450 miles for $2100. I’ve driven it from Atlanta to North Carolina and back. I was a HD fanboy for a while until I got this one for resale and wound up keeping it. Sold the HD. Ha
I love my 2005 Yamaha Road Star!! I bought it 3 weeks ago for $3800 with only 10K miles.
I own a roadstar and a raider love both bikes my roadie has 88k on her and still runs amazing
Just recently bought a 1999 Road Star Silverado with stage 1 exhaust. The bike simply felt perfect from the moment I sat on it.
I have an 09... Which is fuel injected, it has a full BUB 21/2" header system, fuel tuner, BAK, and I've had numerous comments that my Roadstar sounds as good if not better than a Harley, and it will hang with them with my wife on the back, and believe that's the truth, it's a beautifully handling bike all around, we find ourselves riding it more often that our 07 Roadking
Many people looking to get into riding would do well to look at a good used metric bike over a Harley. Easier to maintain, reliable, higher performance, and you're not out 20-30K if you discover like so many that you don't ride much and it starts collecting dust in the garage.
i own HD Electra Glide ultra 1987 , Night train 2007 and yamaha XVS650 . from all 3 bikes i love XVS650 the most . everything cheaper from maintenance to fuel and insurance .it did not broke , did not leak , and very comfortable to ride .
I have a 99' road star Silverado. Have had her about 6 months now, put about 4k miles on her. When I got her, she had about 35,500. Great bike. Love it! But I can rider her for a solid three hours on a 90 degree day. Pull over for a hour or so to get a bite to eat. Before she will fire up I have to put the choke on. Not a problem, just saying I think they can be a tad cold natured. Or maybe just mine is a cold hearted "B" But ay, ill never tell her that though, HaHa
Is it a pain dealing with a carb vs Fi ? Born in 95 never had to mess with it but really interested in a 04 Road star I see for sale near me
I work on bikes for a living Ive ridden just about every harley and metric cruiser model out there, I love my 2002 roadstar, I did high compression pistons ecm big carb ported intake vance & hines 2 into one (wanted to go for the cam kit but patrics cant get the dang ceramic coated lifters anymore) and Im a little quicker than any tuned harley in similar size,, my only complaint is the suspension is a little too soft for my slightly aggressive riding style but it is very comfortable and smooth cruising..
Bought my 2005 Roadstar Silverado Midnight brand new, before I left the dealer I had a set of “Hardchrome” (brand name) drag pipes installed. Have not ever heard a Harley that had better sound than my bike.
My dad had a Yamaha road star and it was a fantastic bike. I went with a Kawasaki 1600 for the liquid cooling. If I'm going to ride metric i prefer liquid cooled
Amazing motorcycle! I own a 2001 roadstar 1600 I paid $2,500 with 16,885 miles on it. Best bike I’ve ever owned. Just waiting to put some apes on mine. Cheers riders!
Thanks for all the test rides I haven't had a bike in 25yrs but your UA-cam made me won't to ride again thanks
Jeff Everhart want
Just do it, but get some refresher lessons
Great bike. My best friend and American Legion Rider Tommy Fordham just passed away while riding his 2013 Yamaha Roadstar on the Dragon's Tail in Tennessee on Thursday. I can verify that it was fuel injected.
www.knoxnews.com/story/news/local/2018/10/25/motorcycle-wreck-dragon-tennessee-us-129/1764349002/
Tim, sorry to hear that. RIP, T.F.
Thank you for the thoughts and prayers, D L and everyone. He was able to pass doing what he loved with the people that he loved around him, and from what I understand, it was quick, so no suffering. We should all be so fortunate, but still, this world is a darker place with him not in it.
@@timbutterbaugh6140 Very sad, sorry to hear it
That really sucks. Pains me to hear that
Another great selling point for metrics is the insurance rates... Yamaha Ventures of the 99-13 era are another good buy...
The history of American GI's leaving their service Harleys in Japan created a huge appreciation of the large American cruiser. The sound build quality and durability of this bike is a reflection of that.
That's a great observation 👍
I have never ridden a Harley. I have however ridden a roadstar 1700. Picked my 07 up with 32k on it back in 2019 for $ 3500. I get asked a lot by Harley guys why I bought my bike over a Harley. Well simple. Price and Power. Every bike in my price range including Harley’s just were in my opinion gutless. When I got mine it made 87hp and 107ftlbs of tourqe. Harley’s were in the high 50s low 60s with similar weight to it in my price range. The Harley’s all had closer to 60k for milage as well. Most of the Harley guys I ride with I out preform them in the corners and on the straight aways it’s no contest. Paired with a nice Vance and Hines exhaust definitely helps make it sound amazing and loud. I have put close to 20k on mine in a few seasons and is nothing to go 150 miles without getting off the seat. I do have a advantage of having a weight of 150lbs fully dressed which helps me move down the road a bit quicker. I have had to replace tires breaks and the clutch and fuel pump. Otherwise just routine maintenance and my upgrades I have added to it. Theses are very customizable bikes and I highly recommend picking up one even if u are a Harley guy. A true biker can appreciate great craftsmanship no matter who makes it.
I have a Dyna Wide Glide also 2 other Japanese bikes. The Harleys are so ridiculously over priced and the Japanese make bikes to last that anyone can afford. I love my Harley but Im multi fauceted. Im also a heavy duty mechanic by trade so I can appreciate quality products. Give credit where its due. There is a reason why Yamaha has been the number one manufacturer in the world !
Hey, came in here to watch a video; that made me smile when talked about the R.S. being a big bike; a man's bike. I'm 4'11", weigh 128#--I ride a Yam Roadstar 1600 ! But u r right, I can only lift it 3/4 the way up. Fell once I LOVE IT!! Have short Vance & Hines on it, have it idled down so that it has the really really throaty deeeep sound. When it's idling, U might think it is going to die, LOL, cuz it reminds me of a long stroke engine !! It goes..BBLLLOPE,ppp, pp
BBLLLOPE, ppp,pp.....
really slow 🤩. Downshift esp awesome, tho can hear the rich sound whole time. SOO MUCH MORE BIKE w/o repairs & downtime than HD !!! And I put my sound against anyone's & be BETTER !! Is painted Synergy Green w/ Pink stripes to match my Camaro ! What?? I'm a GIRL !! Lmao wish could post pic. Safe riding!!
These bikes have to carry at least 8lbs of oil pressure at idle witch is right around 8 to 900 rpms turning idle down will burn your top end out be careful
Just got a roadster 2004 . First cruiser bike and I love it !
I bought the first year 1999 Roadstar 1600 new when it came out loved that bike my current is a 2002 VTX 1800 love the Honda too I've never owned a Harley but ride with family and friends who own them and my bikes are more dependable and out perform thiers
Hard to believe a Yammie cruiser sounds so good
I love my RoadStar and I've only had it 4 days
Never sell it! Ride it until the engine quits which will be a long time!
Had a 03 for ten care free years , sold it and bought a Road King , both great bikes. Prob. Could have kept the Yamaha but RK is a easier and better handing bike.
I've got the 05 Roadstar midnight Silverado and I absolutly love it. 100% agree with all that you said about the Roadstar. I wanted a big bike and it fit my needs perfectly. Sure its a heavy bike, but that doesnt bother me. And ya gotta love the bigger gas tank, you dont have to stop to refuel as often. Its a great looking and great sounding bike.
Beautiful bike, sounds amazing. Love watching your vids
Could have had any bike I wanted. Guess what I bought. 2008, fuel injected Road Star. No problems. It’s a keeper.
The roadstar is the best cruiser for the dollar bar none. Vibrates a bit, but sounds great. Took one coast to coast twice. A great bike.
I own that same bike. Love it.
Owned and ridden my 2004 Roadstar 1700 for years with bike groups and solo. This bike has been zero repairs or roadside breakdowns and keeps up easily with any American made bike for 1/3 the cost in purchase and 1/10tht the cost in repairs anmd maintenance...
I rode mine for 13 years, great bike. Sold it to my sone 5 years ago when I bought my Indian. Him and I rode yesterday.
I would leave the windshield on in case rocks etc. get kicked up by the tires of a vehicle in front of you.
Just snagged an 02 1600 RoadStar with around 30k miles and a Cobra exhaust. Can't wait to get it out on the road b
I still don’t understand why Yamaha killed the 1700,1900cc bikes.
They just released a couple new bikes 1900 cc, venture and eluder.
Lack of sales? If it was selling well, they'd keep selling it. It isn't just Yamaha - cruiser sales have slumped for all brands.
I thought there was a lawsuit from HD.
As of this time you can't just sue someone for making a better product than yours. But the way things are going in our judicial system,. who knows that may change. I do however find it ironic that Harley finally utilized a four valve head like the Roadstar has had since it's creation in 1999 for the M8. I haven't ridden an M8, but those that have seem to think it's the best engine Harley's made yet. Coincidence, I think not. I'm not bashing, I like all bikes. I'm just bringing the facts to light. Ride Safe
people prefer HD to be cool but did HD made 1700cc carburated OOPS
Absolutely love the Roadstars!
Old video, but i love my wildstar. Even stock is good but i also turbocharged my carburated 1999, got revmaster, barnett clutch and roadwing rear shock. With 100hp/200nm from tire it's si cosy to ride and goes like train.
One of the best bang for a buck cruisers
I have a 2001 Yamaha Midnight Star 1600 absolutely love her!
It's a good sound.
And a good value.
I've always road Harley davidson.. But hands down the BEST bike I've ever rode (about a yr and half) was a 2002 Road Star..
Just recently bought one. I haven't ridden her yet because of paperwork. Bit as soon as it sorted out? Yes I'm ridding and thanks for a great video. I actually have the Vance and Hines Long Shots sound clips on my page.
They went to FI in 2008. I have owned 3 of these. They are amazing bikes. Great community support as well.
Yamaha is known for their sound!
Awesome bikes. Fuel injection started in 2008.