Yamaha launches a new high end touring model for 2010, aimed directly at some of the Harley- Davidson “Glide” baggers, a very tough neighbourhood indeed!

A real looker, with the right mix of chrome and a nice black paint job. Does remind one of a Street Glide, doesn't it?

This attractive bike inherits the excellent mechanicals and chassis components from existing Stratoliner models, which means a capable chassis and suspension combination, and an 1852cc state-of-the-art air cooled VTwin.

This recent engine design incorporates the latest “Best practices” in cruiser engines in terms of mass centralisation, low center of gravity, low end torque and enough high-rev capability to provide real power for fully loaded touring.

Priced at $22,999, the Stratoliner Deluxe is taking on Harley’s Street Glide and ElectraGlide Classic, both priced at $22,569, head on, in addition to fighting with very capable tourers from Kawasaki and the other Japanese manufacturers.

Yamaha has done well with their cruiser line in the last few years, and I know that this will also be an excellent machine, one that I look forward to riding early in the new year.

In the meantime, here are some extracts from the Yamaha launch material, with key features highlighted.

From Yamaha
The Stratoliner Deluxe features a distinctive, wind shearing fairing… a pair of large, color-matched, locking hard sidebags with handy one touch openers.

The powerful 113 cubic-inch (1854cc) air-cooled, pushrod V-twin… uses computer controlled twin-bore downdraft electronic fuel injection with 12 hole injectors ensures optimum engine efficiency and throttle response in the widest possible range of conditions.

Combined with the four valve cylinder heads with dual spark plugs, ceramic-composite-lined cylinders and 2 –into-1 exhaust with O2 sensor and three way catalyst to reduce emissions, maximum torque is reached at just 2500 rpm for performance second to none.

A strong and light belt final drive routes power smoothly and efficiently to the rear wheel while the floating floorboards and adjustable heel/toe shifter provide a comfortable, low effort ride.

As you can see, the bags appear nice and roomy, enough to store a spare open-face helmet in there in case you pick up a "passenger".

Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux