On Oct. 28th, 2011 Yamaha filed a recall campaign with the NHTSA (campaign ID number: 11V533000)  regarding possible fuel leaks on 2009 thru 2012 model-year V Star 950 and V Star 950 Tourer manufactured October 2008 through August 2011. The recall also includes the 2007 V Star 1300 model with manufacture dates August 2006 to March 2007. A total of 2800 models are affected.

A separate recall (NHTSA campaign ID number: 11V532000) was issued by Yamaha for the 2012 Super Tenere with manufacture dates June 1, 2011 to August 31,2011. This recall also involves possible fuel leaks.

Continue Reading »

Yamaha revealed the first 2012 models from its Star Motorcycles brand of cruisers, the V Star 950 and V Star 950 Tourer.

The 2012 V Star 950 (and the more touring-oriented V Star 950 Tourer) is powered by a fuel-injected air-cooled 942cc 60 degree V-Twin engine with a five-speed transmission. Yamaha estimates fuel economy at 47 mpg from the 4.5 gallon tank.

Billed as entry-level cruiser, the V Star 950 offers a low 26.6-inch seat height. Front suspension is provided by 41mm forks while the rear uses a bottom-link-type monocross shock. Brakes consist of a 320mm front and a 298mm rear disc.

The 2012 V Star 950 has a claimed weight of 613 pounds. Available in Liquid Silver and Candy Red, it retails at $8490. The V Star Tourer adds a windshield, leather-wrapped hard saddlebags and a passenger backrest. With a claimed weight of 657 pounds, the 2012 V Star Tourer is available for $9,490 in Raven and Impact Blue.

Visit our 2012 V Star 950 and V Star 950 Tourer gallery for more pictures.

Press release after the jump.

Continue Reading »