My ego and I sat down for a heart to heart, and common sense prevailed.
My Yamaha Road Star had become too much motorcycle for me for the type of riding I do. It was time for a change. I needed something lighter, and easier to handle with plenty of storage room and power, something that reeked of practicality as well as good looks.
After much consideration, I decided on the 2005 Yamaha Majestic motor scooter, a sporty, head turner that is FUN to ride. Its 400cc fuel injected engine carries my 5'10", 195-pound frame up, over and around these rugged mountain roads of East KY, Virginia and West Virginia. I can keep up with and or pass existing traffic. The automatic transmission is surprisingly quick and responsive and delivers plenty of smooth power to the road.
The brakes are exceptional. I was a bit apprehensive at first about having both front and rear brakes hand operated, but after riding a few minutes, my doubts were quickly dispelled. I believe having my hands resting on the brake levers while maneuvering in heavy traffic further reduces my response time. Stopping this scooter is quick and sure. After making a few quick practice stops from 55-60 MPH, I became even more confident in the integrity of the braking system. The tires just GRAB the road.
I find this scooter truly bridges the gap between motorcycles and motor scooters. It is the best of both worlds. Years ago when I began riding, the term Motor Scooter implied low power, boxy design, quick and dangerous steering, short wheel base and limited storage space. The Yamaha Majesty gives a whole new meaning to the term. Both in town and on the road it's an adventure to ride. And of course, the attention and compliments are nice too!
I have owned many smaller motorcycles in my life. Early on, I was riding to work and out of necessity, I learned to ride in all kinds of weather (except snow and ice). Thus far, I have ridden my Majesty in a couple of rainstorms and some 54 F degree temperatures. Although the shorter windshield that comes with the Scooter is adequate, I would prefer the larger touring windscreen but it is very pricy.
If I were any taller, I would be concerned about the windshield height and the leg room. The seat is already positioned all the way back but it would be nice to have another couple of inches of legroom too. The faring on the scooter deflects most of the wind and rain, making for a more comfortable ride in inclement weather.
I particularly like the easy to read LCD instrumentation; it is very easy on the eyes at night. The fuel level gauge gives the operator an instant, easy to decipher indication of fuel remaining. The Engine temperature gauge, trip meters, and speedometer are all easily visible at a glance. The ambient temperature or time display (switchable) is easily visible between the speedometer and the tachometer. I like to ride with the ambient temperature visible. The speedometer has two trip meters. I keep one visible as well as the odometer. After using my first tank of fuel, I checked my fuel economy and saw an impressive 62 MPG. I am confident this will improve as the engine wears in. Of course, it is highly dependant on terrain and riding practices.
PRACTICAL: I am not so interested in long distance rides now, although I wouldn't hesitate to travel on the scooter if I wanted to go somewhere. Primary use for my scooter now is occasional day trips and quick runs to the local grocery store. I do not carry passengers although the scooter will easily accommodate one. The large amount of storage space under the rider's seat, as well as two smaller weather proof storage compartments, make the scooter nearly as practical as my pickup truck - just on a smaller scale. I have ordered the rear carrier and should have it in soon. This stylish addition to the scooter will only make it more practical for shopping.
Night riding is fun. The lighting on the instrument panel is soft and easy on the eyes. It has an expensive, automotive look to it. The headlights, brake lights and turn signals are bright and distinct, allowing the rider to be seen as well as see in the darkest of nights.
This is a lot of functional, dependable, good looking, well-engineered transportation for a good price.
My Yamaha Majesty is a striking ride, in a league of its own.
