After reviewing the specifics on Yamaha's new beefed up V-Star 1300, I think it's great move on the company's part.

It puts the bike into better competition with the Honda's VTX 1300 line and still competes against Honda's Sabre 1100 line as well.

Among the most major changes...

• Liquid Cooled


• 1300 Engine


• Belt Driven (previously shaft driven)
  
• Fuel Injected


• Computer controlled fuel injectors that automatically adjust to elevation and temperature changes

To most consumers, what differentiates the V-Star 1300 from the VTX 1300 is styling. If you compare the two, I think you'd agree the new V-Star is a more stylish bike, whether you like the style or not. To Honda's defense, the VTX 1300's plain looks is perhaps better suited for customization.

Most of the die-hard V-Star afficionados seem to disagree with me. Based on their postings on the V-Star 1100 Forum, it sounds as if they're world is crashing in on them. These people are mostly evaluating looks instead of function.

The fact is that the new V-Star 1300 is not intended to improve upon the V-Star 1100, rather, it's intended to compete for sales against Honda.

Labels: Yamaha V-Star 1300