Cypress, Calif. Introduced last season, the FZ6R continues to impress motorcycle journalists as the winner of multiple press tests. With the 2010 FZ6R Yamaha is continuing to define what to expect from an entry level sport bike. That’s why the FZ6R is packed with features that belie its price point; like a torquey 600cc four cylinder engine, fuel injection and a sleek full fairing. New comers to the sport will especially appreciate the low seat height and handlebars that put the rider comfortably in control and anyone can appreciate build quality usually reserved for models costing thousands of dollars more. Starting with the proven power plant from our championship winning supersport bikes the engine in the FZ6R has been optimized for smooth, usable power. The cylinder head, crankcase, intake and exhaust system and clutch and shifter have been designed to create an entirely new engine character. The end result is a fun to ride motorcycle that will appeal to entry-level riders that they won’t soon outgrow. An all new diamond-shaped steel frame keeps the seat height low enough to comfortably reach the ground while allowing responsive handling. A solidly mounted engine allows for the optimum balance of high vertical rigidity and comparatively low lateral rigidity for stability at speed and sharp cornering performance. Stylish bodywork lends the FZ6R a sporty aggressive look, borrowing aggressive lines from the YZF-R series with more extensive wind protection to match the more upright seating position. A low mount exhaust keeps the mass centralized while adding to the aggressive modern look of the bike. Additional features like the adjustable handlebar and seat position and full meter display with digital speedometer, analog tachometer, odometer/tripmeter, fuel gauge and water coolant gauge continue to set the FZ6R apart from others in its class. Now what’s your excuse for not getting the cool sportbike you always wanted? The 2010 FZ6R will be available in dealerships nationwide beginning in January with a starting MSRP of $7,390. The FZ6R will be available in Team Yamaha Blue/White, Pearl White/Rapid Red, Pearl White/Vivid Magenta and Raven. Full information on all Yamaha models can be found at ~http://www.yamaha-motor.com~. More, from another press release issued by Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.: Cypress, California Following its many motorcycle press awards, the custom chopper-inspired Raider is back for 2010. This motorcycle continues to turn heads anywhere it goes with its raked-out front end, fuel-injected V-twin engine, fat rear tire, aluminum frame, high quality paint and chrome and a fit and finish attention to detail like no other. This modern performance cruiser screams attitude. The 34-degree rake plus 6 degrees yoke angle gives total rake of 40 degrees and 102mm of trail, while bringing the fork closer to the steering axis, making it possible to achieve that custom look as well as neutral handling and straight-line cruising comfort. Raider and Raider S models are powered by a 113 cubic inch (1854cc) fuel-injected V-twin engine. Maximum torque, enhanced by EXUP, the exhaust power valve that maximizes power across the rev range, is achieved at just 2500 rpm. Aiding in handling and good looks is the fat 210-section radial back tire. Coupled with an aluminum frame and swing arm, the Raider and Raider S are designed to go like no other production cruiser as well. The 2009 Raider will be available in dealerships nationwide beginning September 2009 with a starting MSRP of $14,190, and Raider S, with more custom-look chrome accents, starting at $14,790. The 2009 Raider will be available in Candy Red and Liquid Silver colors. The Raider S will be available in Raven and Deep Blue and available in January. Full information on all Star models can be found at ~http://www.starmotorcycles.com~. More, from another press release issued by Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.: Cypress, California Think all baggers are created equal? Think again”¦..Star is pleased to introduce the 2010 Stratoliner Deluxe. Whether you’re traveling cross-country or crosstown, this new bagger is one of the most powerful and stylish ways to go. The Stratoliner Deluxe features a distinctive, wind shearing fairing that includes a handlebar-mounted audio control system with integrated high fidelity speakers, connectors for an iPod® jack and ultra cool shorty windscreen. To compliment the fairing a pair of large, color-matched, locking hard sidebags with handy one touch openers provide spacious storage for long hauls and short trips. The powerful and beautiful 113 cubic-inch (1854cc) air-cooled, pushrod V-twin has massive looks and performance. The computer controlled twin-bore downdraft electronic fuel injection with 12 hole injectors ensures optimum engine efficiency and throttle response in the widest possible range of conditions. Combined with the four valve cylinder heads with dual spark plugs, ceramic-composite-lined cylinders and 2 into-1 exhaust with O2 sensor and three way catalyst to reduce emissions, maximum torque is reached at just 2500 rpm for performance second to none. The long and low aluminum frame provides great looks and light handling unlike any other full-size cruiser with very few welds for a smooth, clean look and a near 50/50 weight distribution between both wheels. The light, Controlled-fill swingarm casting compliments the streamline style and reduces unsprung weight to assist in the great handling. Additional features such as 46 mm fork tubes with slant cut chrome covers, a tucked out-of-sight single shock with adjustable spring preload, a richly chromed 1.25 inch oversize handlebar and large front discs with monolock brake calipers add to the unmatched functionality of the chassis. A strong and light belt final drive routes power smoothly and efficiently to the rear wheel while the floating floorboards and adjustable heel/toe shifter provide a comfortable, low effort ride. The Neo-streamline design gives the Stratoliner Deluxe a completely distinctive look which is accented by a level of fit and finish that is second to none. Details such as the switchgear wiring being routed internal to the handlebar, a flangeless, teardrop fuel tank, 12-spoke wheels, chrome front brake master cylinder with integrated lever, a sculpted seat and special custom machining of the cooling fin edges give a jewel like appearance to the engine as light hits it from different angles. Additional details like Star quality paint and chrome, bright multireflector headlight, LED taillight and amber turn signals behind clear lenses complete the custom look. The 2010 Stratoliner Deluxe will be available in Star motorcycle dealerships nationwide beginning in January in a Raven finish with a starting MSRP of $17,490. The Star® Accessories Catalog is packed full of high-quality parts that invite Star owners to fully express their individuality. Full information on all Star models can be found at ~http://www.starmotorcycles.com~. More, from another press release issued by Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.: Cypress, California Introduced as the first cruiser in its class that doesn’t cut corners, the V Star 950 won the prestigious “Metric of the Year” award in 2009 from V-Twin® Magazine. The V Star 950 is the benchmark in the middleweight cruiser class, appealing to seasoned riders as well as those looking for a friendly entry-level cruiser. The air-cooled V-twin delivers plenty of distinctive, big-cruiser character and pulsing torque feel. With the seat height an extra-low 26.5 inches, the full-sized chassis has a long, low look and provides spacious comfort. Handling is sporty and responsive, great for curvy back roads and commuting around town as well as open-highway cruising. The 942cc 60° V-twin engine is both simple and sophisticated. Sure, there’s no-fuss air cooling for traditional looks. But inside you’ll find the reason for the surprisingly spirited performance: four-valve cylinder heads, ceramic-composite-lined cylinders, forged aluminum pistons, and fuel injection. The meticulously tuned 2-into-1 exhaust system has a throaty exhaust note, and also 3-way catalyst technology to reduce air pollution. The carefully designed chassis contributes to an exceptionally light feeling riders are sure to appreciate. The double-cradle steel main frame offers an ideal rigidity balance in the longitudinal, lateral, and torsional directions, using the engine as a stressed member. With the engine mounting position slightly forward for optimum front-rear weight distribution and its large, 18-inch front wheel, V Star 950 has outstanding handling performance. The V Star 950’s streamlined styling is defined as “New Style Classic.” Designers used the influence of a single, horizontal line along the entire body, almost as if the wind has sculpted the machine. The long, low look is accentuated by the headlight and low-profile fuel tank, and the openness around the engine and front wheel highlight the bike’s light appearance. The V Star 950 Tourer rolls out with a windshield, leather-wrapped hard sidebags, and a passenger backrest all standard, ready for the open road or the commute to school or work. Beautiful leather saddlebags complement the overall lines, while the windshield adds classic looks and functionality. Of course both versions of the 950 come with great features you can’t get anywhere else like steel fenders, belt drive, top quality paint and plenty of accessories to make it your own. The 2010 V Star 950 will be available in Star motorcycle dealerships nationwide beginning in September 2010 with a starting MSRP of $8090. The V Star 950 comes in Raven, Candy Red and Pearl White. The V Star 950 Tourer will be available in a Raven or Seashell color and with a starting MSRP of $9190. Full information on all Star models can be found at http://www.starmotorcycles.com. More, from another press release issued by Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.: Cypress, California Newly improved for 2010, the V Star 1300 Tourer is better than ever. Coming standard with hard leather-wrapped sidebags, passenger backrest and windshield, the touring package is designed from the factory so it’s styled consistently with the bike’s fluid lines. Now even more comfortable, changes include a new handlebar with more relaxed riding position, a newly contoured seat nearly a full inch lower, more chrome, a new tank badge and a new frame color. All of these changes compliment the Tourer’s modern classic styling and accent the distinctive Star look that make the 1300 one of the most desirable cruisers in its class. The change in handlebar bend brings the bars closer to the rider, for a more relaxed riding position and wider range of movement. In addition the shape of the seat has been redesigned with more of a “dish” shape for improved comfort and it allows riders to touch the ground easily, reducing the seat height to just 27.2 inches off the ground. Styling changes like the new 3-D emblem design on the fuel tank, a new chrome headlight housing, chrome belt guard and new gloss black finish on the frame further add to the high-quality look. Cruiser engines need to sound and feel a certain way, with big pulsing power and the sound and feel to back it up. The 80-cubic-inch (1304cc) liquid-cooled, fuel-injected V-twin produces excellent power across the board along with a highly stimulating exhaust note. The engine’s four valve cylinder head contains roller rocker arms, ceramic composite cylinder sleeves and forged connecting rods connected to a single pin crankshaft for true V twin sound and power. The cooling system routes liquid through hidden hoses and internal engine passages for air-cooled looks and liquid-cooled performance. The virtually maintenance free belt drive transfers power from the transmission to the wheel with authority and delivers a quicker, more impressive throttle response feeling than a shaft drive. Of course the 1300 comes with great features you can’t get anywhere else like a steel gas tank and fenders, seven spoke wheels and matching drive pulley, top quality paint, a bright multi-reflector headlight and amber turn signals with clear lenses that give a custom look. In addition the Star® Accessories Catalog is packed full of high-quality parts that invite Star owners to fully express their individuality. The updated V Star 1300 Tourer will be available in Star motorcycle dealerships nationwide beginning in September 2010 with a starting MSRP of $11,790 and available in Raven and Impact Blue. Full information on all Star models can be found at ~http://www.starmotorcycles.com~.