V Star 1300 Impressions

[KenMcCoy]

Has anyone had a chance to ride the V Star 1300? If so, what are your impressions.

I'm researching for my next bike purchase in maybe 5-6 mos. I want to build a full dresser with stereo and everything and am leaning towards the 1300. Here is my list of pros and cons so far...

PROS
*Strong engine - The 1300 is a good engine that puts out around 70hp/75-80 tq. It runs the 1/4 mile in 13.14 sec. @100.47 mph (http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/roadtests/0906_crup_middleweight_motorcycles_four_for_10000/motorcycle_specifications.html). Compare that to an 08 HD Fat Bob that runs 13.98 sec @ 95.4 mph (http://motorcyclecruiser.automotive.com/97534/0807-crup-1600cc-class-motorcycles/2008-hd-fat-bob.html). That's some good power out of a bike that is more than 200 cc's smaller.

*Full sized bike - Nice long streamlined look
*Full fenders - perfect for a bagger
*Batwing fairing w/ stereo available from aftermarket.
*Cheap!!! - Can get a new one for under 9K.

CONS
*Liquid Cooled - I know that technically that is supposed to be better than air cooled but that doesn't mean I have to like it!!
*Handlebar mounted gauge/empty fuel tank - I'm a fan of nice chrome tank consoles.

Anyways, if anyone has any input let me know. Thanks!!!

[KenMcCoy]

Just went and sat on one at the dealer (been raining for a week so no test ride). Felt large enough although I would definitely need to change the handlebars. Also think that they should have at least put chrome forks on it.

[lightnin37]

hey just wanted to let you know i rode the 1300t and actually traded my HD in for it, love the power and the ride, its smooth and if you change the pipes and put a fi2000 on it you actually get around 88 hp and alot better fuel mil. i love the bike and wouldn't be affraid to say that it would be a great purchase for you. me and my fiance' ride together and i'm 6'2 at 260lbs and shes not that small and i can take off faster and smoother than most all the HD's we ride with. hope this helps if you have any questions just send me a message.as far as the speed i can do the quater in 12.82 at 117 mph

[KenMcCoy]

Yeah...the more I look at them the more I like em. Seems like a great long haul ride. How are the rpm's @ 80-85?

[the8thdwarf]

anymore input on this bike

[biker42lue]

They are pretty powerful bikes. I used to work at a Yamaha dealer in the service dept. and I had many chances to ride these bikes and build them/do basic maintenance on them. I also saw my fair share of used models and installed some accessories on them. The problem with these bikes is that they just aren't amazingly comfortable. The handlebar position is a little low and it's hard to adjust them because of the way they're mounted. Also, there's not a whole lot of customizing you can do on the 1300. For what they are, I'd go with the Roadstar instead. It's a more powerful bike, great for touring and much more customizable.