Yamaha XV535 Vırago

Shhhh..dont tell Montie but I think I have found my next Motorbike, I know I’ve not had my Mondial for long, but for touring I really could do with abit more engine power, Dave suggested the Yamaha XV535 as its still quite a lightweight bike and easy to handle.

I’ m liking this bike very much, so here’s a bit of info just in case you didn’t know,

Top speed      100mph
1/4-mile acceleration     14.2 secs
Power     38bhp
Torque     32ftlb
Weight     182kg
Seat height     720mm
Fuel capacity     13.5 litres
Average fuel consumption     47mpg
Tank range     130 miles
Insurance group     8
Engine size     535cc
Engine specification     4v V-twin, 5 gears
Frame     Steel tubular spine
Front suspension adjustment     None
Rear suspension adjustment     Preload
Front brakes     298mm disc
Rear brake     Drum
Front tyre size     3.00 x 19
Rear tyre size     140/90 x 15

All looking good!! personally I think ıt was made for a 45 year old Cornish woman….

The XV535 Virago is where Yamaha started giving Harley-Davidson a run for their money: it was the first of their cruiser motorcycles and it certainly lasted well. The Yamaha XV535 is basic, trusted, easy to ride and with unchallenging but enjoyable performance.

Engine

Unchallenging, smooth, torque enough and reliable, the Yamaha XV535 engine’s been going since 1988 and there are plenty of XV535s still running today. In other words: it’s good. The Virago has enough pull low down and strong in the midrange but you’ve got to work it hard to reach top speeds (but that’s not what cruising’s about anyway).

Ride and Handling

The Yamaha XV535 Virago has good brakes, adequate suspension and a smooth gearbox (although it’s a bit clunky between first and second). Handling’s not sharp but it is stable and predictable, perfect for a motorcycle like this, although the front gets a bit frisky at the top of the rev range. The Yamaha XV535 Virago’s low centre of gravity makes for easy slow speed work. It also has pretty good ground clearance and narrow enough for easy manoeuvrability.

Equipment

The Yamaha XV535 Virago has a clear, analogue speedo but no fuel light or rev counter. However, the reserve switch is on the bars, which is a bonus. Good mirrors but they do vibrate at high revs. The XV535’s plush seat is comfy but the pillion perch is tiny. Riding position not as “cruisery” as you’d expect: the pegs aren’t miles forward and you ride upright. This is not an extreme motorcycle so it’s very easy to get along with.

Quality and Reliability

Both mechanically and cosmetically, the Yamaha XV535 Virago is a highly regarded motorcycle and has the longevity of successful sales figures to prove it. Gripes are rare but include carb icing and corroding regulator/rectifiers but, on the whole, the Yamaha XV535 Virago is a solid motorcycle to buy. But keep that exposed V-twin and all that chrome in good nick to maintain value.

Value

The Yamaha XV535 Virago is excellent value and there are plenty of good used ones around to choose from. The XV535 is a simple motorcycle to work on, it’ll save you money at the garage, and insurance is low too. On  the downside, fuel consumption’s patchy: thrash it and it won’t see 100 miles to a tankful. Shaft drives keeps maintenance to a minimum.

Model History

1988: Yamaha XV535 Virago was introduced with very similar spec to the later versions. The first model had a tiny, 8.6 litre, underseat fuel tank which was ditched later that year for a proper, 13.5 litre version.
1996: Minor update, including new mirrors, an improved gear box and extended mufflers.
2004: Yamaha XV535 Virago discontinued.

We are hoping to do quite a few more tours as there is still so many places we want to visit, Montie would get me there, but of course, us humans always want bigger and better especially where bikes are concerned!!