2018 Yamaha Star Venture

All-New top-of-the-line transcontinental tourer combines emotional V-Twin performance with cutting-edge comfort and technology.

• Engine

A massive 1854cc air-cooled V-twin powers Star Venture with a class-leading 126 pound-feet of pavement-bending torque, for effortless passing power even when fully loaded. And while the competition promotes their “new” four-valve cylinder heads, Yamaha has been refining the four-valve, twin-spark-plug, pent-roof engine design for nearly 20 years, delivering exceptional power and drivability that leaves the rest of the class in the dust.

The Star Venture engine delivers huge torque with a thrilling V-twin pulse that brings excitement to every ride. And thanks to lightweight forged alloy pistons, carefully-tuned counterbalancers and advanced composite engine mounts, the Star Venture creates a luxuriously smooth ride ideal for days in the saddle without fatigue.

Developed specifically for the needs of long-distance touring, the six-speed gearbox features ratios chosen to make the most of the huge low-end torque available from the 1854cc engine, for brisk acceleration in lower gears and relaxed highway cruising—at 75 mph in sixth gear, the Star Venture will run at an ultra-smooth 2750 rpm.

• Infotainment

Mounted high in the cockpit for improved visibility, the 7-inch full-color LCD display puts a huge array of information and control at the rider’s fingertips. Controlled via touchscreen, handlebar controls or voice commands, this infotainment package gives the rider access to vehicle control and data, a range of audio sources and wireless Bluetooth® communications options. The locking fairing storage includes a USB charging and interface port to keep devices topped up, too.

By integrating vehicle systems into the infotainment console, running data such as trip computer functions and tire pressure can be easily confirmed on-screen, while elements such as the heated seats can be controlled by the rider.

By linking a Bluetooth®-equipped smartphone, the Star Venture gives the rider complete control of communications with both the passenger and the wider world directly through the infotainment display.

• Chassis/Suspension

The Star Venture is built around an advanced hybrid chassis designed for agile, confidence-inspiring handling. The main steel frame makes use of casting and forgings to place material exactly where needed for optimal rigidity, while the rear subframe makes use of Yamaha’s advanced aluminum die-casting techniques to reduce weight and centralize mass even further. The balanced chassis gives the Venture a combination of solid straight-line stability with agility on the curviest of roads.

Thanks to the semi-dry-sump engine, advanced frame design and careful positioning of major components, turn-in and direction changes require less effort, for a more engaging ride with less fatigue. And you can feel the difference every ride, as the Venture requires a massive 22 percent less effort to lift off the sidestand than similar models in the class.