Solid structure
The V-Star 1100 is very long. Actually, it's almost as long as some 1500-cc motorcycles. It has no problem accommodating a large-sized adult. The large-diameter, double-cradle steel frame lacks a bit of stiffness, which translates into a slight front wheel hopping, especially when exiting a corner on a damaged road. On the other hand, the front end of the Classic and Silverado models proves to be more stable thanks to a wider tire.

Brakes are powerful and enduring.

Up front is a 41-mm traditional fork with 140 mm (5.5") of wheel travel and adjustable single shock. It's been calibrated to offer uncompromised comfort, which ensures a very soft ride but also significant nosedive during emergency braking maneuvers. The V-Star's braking system, meanwhile, is made up of two 298-mm front discs, unlike the single-disc setup of its closest rivals. This high-performance system is solid and safe for riding with a passenger -- a rare feature among affordable motorcycles.

Comfort aplenty
Equipped with comfortably placed, full-size floorboards, ultra-wide handlebars and a large, nicely shaped rider seat, the V-Star Classic and Silverado offer a comfortable and relaxed riding position. The instrument panel is extremely simplistic: there is not even a fuel gauge. As for the various controls, they are well laid out and easy to manipulate.

The instrumentation, although easy to read, is rather limited.

Where's the competition?
We're left to wonder why there is so few 1100-cc cruisers on the market. With more than enough power, such displacement provides a comfortable and safe riding experience on the highway. There is plenty of torque for two and adequate power to have fun in any situation. Furthermore, the V-Star 1100 offers a feeling of lightness similar to that of small-displacement cruisers, not to mention flawless handling and overwhelming user-friendliness.