cruiser motorcycles

Yamaha Roadliner XV1900: Specs, Features, Background, Performance, & More

Yamaha Roadliner XV1900 Specs, Features, Background, Performance, & More

A power-packed large-displacement cruiser, the Yamaha Roadliner possesses a robust OHV 1854cc V-twin engine. This vehicle is a symbol of technical engineering and generates impressive horsepower and peak torque.


The Roadliner takes cruiser styling to the next level with its lightweight aluminum frame, chrome accents, wide handlebars, and lustrous paint. Each part of the motorcycle is polished to perfection. The bike is a great convertible and can be customized with a few Yamaha aftermarket parts. The XV1900 Roadliner continues to be a favorite motorcycle since its launch. Many owners claim that getting a Yamaha Roadliner was the most worthwhile investment in their lives.


Read on to find all the necessary information about the price, specification, and performance of the Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner to see if this bike suits your needs.

1. A Brief History of Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner

Yamaha introduced its largest cruiser, the XV1900 Roadliner in 2006. Until this point, the motorcycle company had successfully dominated the cruiser market with its Star motorcycle lineup that offered upto 1600cc displacement. However, the engine configuration of these motorcycles remained unchanged throughout its production years.


With the launch of the Roadliner, Yamaha found an opportunity to redesign its powerful engine so that it could meet the emission regulation criteria. Yamaha's design team also changed the styling.


As a result, three different versions of the standard Roadliner were launched. The dimensions, performance figures, and engine of these bikes were the same. However, cruisers were given different labels based on their distinct paint schemes.

  1. Yamaha Midnight Star Roadliner (Standard)
  2. Yamaha Roadliner Midnight
  3.  Yamaha Roadliner S

 YAMAHA ROADLINER VARIANTS
 Production Years  Model Name  Other Names
2006 - 2019 Yamaha XV1900A Roadliner Yamaha XV19W Roadliner (Midnight Star)
2006 - 2015 Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner S Yamaha XV19 S Roadliner
2006 -2009 Yamaha XV1900A Roadliner Midnight Yamaha XV19M Roadliner Midnight

The same year, Yamaha also launched a tourer version of the Roadliner known as the Stratoliner. Over the years, four variants of the tourer variant were introduced.

  1. Yamaha Stratoliner
  2. Yamaha Stratoliner S
  3. Yamaha Stratoliner Midnight
  4. Yamaha Stratoliner Deluxe

 YAMAHA STRATOLINER VARIANTS
 Production Years  Model Name  Other Names
2006 - 2009 Yamaha XV1900CT Stratoliner Yamaha XV 19 CTV Stratoliner
2006 - 2016 Yamaha XV1900CT Stratoliner S Yamaha XV 19 CTS Stratoliner S
2006 -2008 Yamaha XV1900CT Stratoliner Midnight Yamaha XV 19 CTM Stratoliner Midnight
2010-2014 Yamaha XV1900CFD Stratoliner Deluxe Yamaha XV 19 CTF Stratoliner Deluxe

The Stratoliner is a slightly heavier version of the Roadliner. It is also equipped with factory-installed motorcycle luggage, a windshield, and comfort add-ons. Apart from these minor changes, both bikes were essentially the same.



 YAMAHA ROADLINER VS STRATOLINER MOTORCYCLES
Distinct Features  Roadliner  Stratoliner
Category Cruiser Tourer
Model Name XV1900 XV1900
Production Year 2006-2017 2006-2017
Height 44.3 in 59.6 in
Curb Weight 763 lbs 802 lbs
Seat Height 28.9 in 27.8 in
Rear Suspension Softer suspension Stiffer suspension with more preload
Saddlebags Absent Present
Windshield Absent Present
Passenger Backrest Absent Present

Yamaha discontinued the production of all Roadliner and Stratoliner motorcycles in 2017.

2. Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner at First Glance

Yamaha XV1900A Roadliner Styling

The Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner is a stunning cruiser with a sophisticated streamlined design and a seamless fuel tank. The bike has striking paint schemes that are augmented by the liberal use of chrome. Applied to the engine covers, handlebar clamps, fenders, and cylinders, the gleaming shine of chrome plating is an attractive feature for cruiser enthusiasts. The hidden rear suspension gives the bike a robust hardtail look and beefy tires that introduce a sporty character. The contemporary styling of this bike allows it to successfully compete with other bikes.

Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner Instruments & Lighting

The Yamaha Roadliner motorcycle has tank-mounted instruments which include a compact tachometer and a simple fuel gauge. A speedometer, ECU diagnosis, high beam LCD odometer, double trip meters, and clock are also fitted onto the instrument panel. The instruments can be difficult to read if it is raining.


The bike has a 55/51 watt multi-reflector headlight and stylish position indicators. The tail light is a bright LED bulb. Both forward and backlighting provide a strong road presence and sufficient visibility at night.

Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner Engine

The Yamaha Roadliner boasts an impressive air-cooled four-stroke 48⁰ V-type engine that displaces 1854 cc. At an average speed range of 55 to 70 mph, the engine produces massive torque of 167.8 Nm at 2500 rpm.

Engine Cylinders

True to modern OHV configuration, the engine has two ceramic-composite coated cylinders with four valves, large bores, and double spark plugs. This arrangement ensures the optimal airflow required to produce large amounts of engine power. Moreover, the Roadliner engine pistons feature an alumite coating. These pistons, combined with coated cylinders, reduce friction and damage, increasing the engine's performance and longevity.

Exhaust Ultimate Power Valve

The Roadliner's engine is the only motor that comes with a special Exhaust Ultimate Power Valve system. This system greatly increases the intake of air, engine outputs, and fuel economy. The pent-roof combustion chamber is also unique to the 1854cc Roadliner engine, allowing for optimum gas flow.

Engine Balancers

Large engines can create deafening noise, so the Yamaha design team fixed the counter balancers on either side of the Roadliner's engine to reduce harsh vibrations and excess noise. As a result, the distinct rhythmic rumble is all you will hear as you turn the ignition.

Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner Handling

Chassis

The double-cradle aluminum frame is lightweight and greatly improves the handling of the bike. The low-slung seat ensures a low center of gravity for linear cruising. The 101.6-inch length and a 67.5-inch long wheelbase add to the bike's stability and improve maneuverability. Due to its chassis, this bike is beginner-friendly.

Clutch

The Yamaha Roadliner is one of the largest cruisers available on the market. The earlier models of the bikes featured an efficient wet multi-plate hydraulic clutch. From 2013 onwards, the power delivery was controlled via an upgraded slipper clutch. The new clutch system absorbed the engine braking force to reduce the load on suspensions, offering a smooth ride on uneven roads. It also protects the transmission system from damage and the rear wheel from locking up.

Drive Train

The clutch supplies power to the five-speed transmission system with carefully selected gear ratios. The throttle response is smooth. The bike is also equipped with a clean belt drive that turns the rear wheel.

Suspension

The front suspension is a 66 mm telescopic fork that offers 5.1 inches of wheel travel. The rear suspension is a hidden monoshock with an adjustable preload that offers 4.3 inches of wheel travel. With their excellent damping ability and powerful springs, the Roadliner suspensions perform equally well on smooth and uneven roads. However, you will feel jerky movements if the bike hits a deep bump.

Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner Wheels

The bike features retro-style, 12-spoke cast wheels with a 130/70R x18 M/C front tire and 190/60R x 17M/C rear tire. The tires are durable and have reliable traction even when turning corners, ensuring safer rides. Thick tires enhance the cruiser's sporty character.

Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner Brakes

The Yamaha Roadliner has excellent brakes. They offer great stopping power and improve the bike's stability. The brakes work with the slipper clutch to prevent the wheels from locking if you stop suddenly. With confidence-inspiring brakes, cruiser enthusiasts can ride their bikes at thrilling speeds without fear of accidents.

Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner Comfort

The Yamaha Roadliner seats are firm so you won't get a sore bottom after traveling for long hours. The long handlebars are within reach, turn effortlessly, and offer great leverage for the rider. The seat, handlebars, and floorboards help provide a relaxed seating position and a more comfortable ride.

The Stratoliner offers greater comfort with spacious saddlebags, a wide windshield, and a well-cushioned backrest.

3. Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner A Buyer's Guide

3.1. How Many Miles Per Gallon Do You Get on the Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner Motorcycle?

The Yamaha Roadliner motorcycle is a fuel-efficient bike that features a large fuel tank capable of holding up to 4.49 gallons of fuel. The bike offers an average fuel economy of 37.6 mpg. The mileage is relative and depends on the frequency of maintenance, external conditions such as traffic density, and an individual’s riding style. According to a study published in the Hindawi Journal , aggressive acceleration and hard braking can greatly increase fuel consumption. From this study, it can be concluded that gentle acceleration and braking not only ensure a smooth ride but also offer good fuel economy.

3.2. How Fast is the Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner?

The Yamaha Roadliner is a powerful bike that can attain a top speed of 126 mph. The engine pistons work inside of large 118 mm bore cylinders. This design results in minimum vibrations at top speed so a rider is not constantly vibrating when cruising.

3.3. How Much Horsepower Does the Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner Have?

The 1854cc V-twin motor of the Yamaha Roadliner produces a peak horsepower of 100 hp at 4250 rpm.

3.4. Is Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner Engine Carbureted or Fuel Injected?

The Yamaha Roadliner and Stratoliner motorcycles share the same engine design. The bikes are equipped with an efficient fuel injection system to improve combustion efficiency and support the engines power output.

3.5. When Did Yamaha Stop Manufacturing XV1900 Roadliner Motorcycles?

After an 11-year-long-production-run, Yamaha stopped the production of Roadliner and Stratoliner motorcycles in 2017.

3.6. Should You Buy a Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner Motorcycle?

The Yamaha Roadliner and Stratoliner are stylish motorcycles powered by a robust air-cooled four-stroke 1854cc V-twin engine. The bike has a light aluminum frame, a five-speed transmission, an efficient belt drive, adequate stopping power, and strong suspensions. The seat height, ergonomic configuration, and large fuel tank ensure a relaxed long-distance trip. On the other hand, the Stratoliner has all the necessary touring parts that allow you to do camping trips and adventurous motorcycle tours with your partner.


Considering the impressive specifications, useful features, and all-powerful engine, this bike can be a great investment. If you have any doubts about the bike's performance and its suitability, we recommend you rent it from a local rental service.

3.7. What is the Difference Between the Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner and the Stratoliner Motorcycles?

The Yamaha Roadiner and Stratoliner have essentially the same design and specifications. The only difference lies in their unique color schemes and the availability of travel-friendly amenities. The Roadliner is a simple cruiser while the Stratoliner is a tourer loaded with custom parts.

4. Detailed Specifications (Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner)

4.1. Dimensions

Length 101.6 in
Width 43.3 in
Height 44.3 in
Wheelbase 67.5 in
Ground Clearance 6.1 in
Seat Height 28.9 in
Curb Weight 763 lbs.
Rake 30°
Trail 6.0 in
Fuel Capacity 4.49 gal (reserve 3.0 l)
Fuel Economy 37.6 mpg

4.2. Chassis

Type Double cradle aluminum frame
Front Suspension, wheel travel Telescopic fork, 46 mm, 5.1 inches of wheel travel
Rear Suspension, wheel travel Swingarm with monoshock, 4.3 inches of wheel travel, adjustable spring preload.
Front Tire Size 130/70R 18-M/C 63 H
Rear Tire Size 190/60R 17-M/C 78 H
Wheels/rim 12-spoke cast wheels
Front Brake Double disc, 298 mm, four-piston calipers
Rear Brake Single disc, 320 mm, one-piston caliper

4.3. Engine

Type Air-cooled, four-stroke
Bore & Stroke 100.0 x 118.0 mm
Displacement 1854 cc
Cylinder arrangement Two cylinders, 48° pushrod V-twin
Compression Ratio 9.5:1
Valve Train OHV, four valves per cylinder
Fuel System/ Induction 2x Mikuni AC43 twin-bore electronic fuel injection with throttle position sensor
Lubrication System Dry-sump
Exhaust system Two-into-one exhaust
Emission gasses Approx. 129.9 g/km of carbon dioxide

4.4. Performance

Maximum Power 100.0 hp at 4250 rpm
Maximum Torque 167.8 Nm at 2500 rpm
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0-60 mph) 4.12 sec
Top Speed 126 mph

4.5. Drivetrain

Clutch Wet multi-plate hydraulic operated Slipper clutch (2013 onwards)
Transmission Five-speed
Final Drive Belt
Primary Reduction 1.412
Gear Ratio 1st 2.375
Gear Ratio 2nd 1.571
Gear Ratio 3rd 1.160
Gear Ratio 4th 0.929
Gear Ratio 5th 0.800

4.6. Electrical

Ignition Digital Transistor Coil Ignition (TCI)
Battery Capacity 12V-12Ah
Alternator A.C. magneto 14V 32A at 5000 rpm
Starter Electric
Instruments Clock-style

4.7. Others

Colors Raven Black
Base Price $15,180
Warranty 12 months, limited factory warranty

5. Aftermarket Parts & Modification Options for the Yamaha XV1900 Roadliner

The Yamaha Roadliner is an excellent cruiser with great specs, available at a great price. The bikes have great touring ability, especially its variant, the Stratoliner, which comes with factory-installed saddlebags, windshield, and backrests.



However, the Stratoliner offers little opportunity for modifications. That is why many cruiser enthusiasts opt for the XV1900 Roadliner, a perfect canvas for creative expression. Plus, it is less expensive and you can easily fit aftermarket parts into your budget. If you are passionate about custom cruisers, then the right place to start is to install touring accessories.


Motorcyclists are free-spirits who enjoy exploring new places and roads whenever they want. A motorcycle, a few essentials, and a scenic place can make for a pleasant riding experience. If this description is your idea of an ideal motorcycle trip, then make your bike travel-ready.


Simply install  luggage racks,  saddlebags,  fairing,  a plush seat,  rider and passenger backrests, sissy bars, and  crash bars  to improve your bike’s capabilities. You can carry your clothing, documents, camera gear, helmet, tent, blankets, and tools in the mounted saddlebags. The crash bars and fairings are added protection from the elements and accidents. The  sissy bars  will ensure your passenger is comfortable, but if you are traveling alone, sissy bars can provide extra luggage room. There is a large variety of Yamaha-specific sissy bar bags available on the market for you to pack your belongings for a solo trip.


These investments will come in handy and considering the Yamaha Roadliners power, performance, and reliability, you wont part with this bike anytime soon.

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