After riding VENTURES since 1985, I recently traded my 99 RS VENTURE for a 2006 STRATOLINER S. I also went to a different dealer due to a move, leaving behind a great dealer in PA. My experience with my new dealer was outstanding and helped take the stress out of switching dealers.
The bike is a beast. The motor is smooth and powerful and the bike is very nimble and easy to paddle around at slow speed. The riding position allows for some variation, but my aging body will need a backrest for longer rides. The seat is not as comfy as the touring bikes I have ridden, an aftermarket option will be exercised in the spring.
The fit and finish and styling is perfect for me. I love the look of the two tone silver paint and all the chrome that drips from the bike. I am not thrilled with the pointy rear taillights and will attempt a modification to eliminate them in the future. The bags are roomy and very compatible with the lines of the motorcycle. The cheesy, quick release clips have already been replaced by nuts and bolts, so to not have one of the bags go skittering down the road someday. The removable windshield provides good wind protection and the passenger backrest is easily removed and its absence does not deter from the overall appearance of the bike. Both items lock when installed, using the ignition key.
Lots of new motor noises for me to adapt to, some lessen as the bike is breaking in. I have ridden water cooled bikes for years, not used to hearing the valve train like I do on this bike (it's normal operation, just new to me). The bike exhibits the typical YAMAHA driveline whine that has upset riders over the years with the VENTURE line. Not upsetting to me and I know that it will also lessen over time. None of the above is a slam against YAMAHA or the bike, just one of the idiosyncrasies of their products (products that I have ridden exclusively since 1981).
YAMAHA and STAR have a winner here. It has revived my spirit to ride and I love the ride and the looks that I receive when I am on the bike. Some minor nits aside, I expect to ride this magnificient machine for years to come and love it more and more.
Upgrades/Accessories: Anticipating a slip-on muffler addition and an aftermarket seat with driver backrest. It doesn't need much more chrome, it is dripping with it.
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