Introduced in 2006, the Roadliner is a well equipped high-end power cruiser well equipped for the wars in that market segment. It leaves no one indifferent with its Art Deco style, abundant chrome, and impressive dimensions, more than enough to fight off the competition at that rarefied level.

Beautiful, elegant and boasting an unequalled finish, it’s worth the price.

Smooth and efficient drivetrain
The responsive 1,900cc twin-cylinder engine impressed me with abundant acceleration for a relatively heavy bike, even when it was fully loaded for touring.

The Yamaha engineers developed this engine specifically for the cruiser market, where low is king – as in low bike, seat, engine and centre of gravity. And the 48-degree V-Twin delivers, with rocker-actuated valves and a relatively large bore to lower the cylinder heads as well as provide maximum torque where it lives, i.e. at low rpm.

The good old Yamaha EXUP power valve, in titanium no less and controlled by the on-board computer, uses a sophisticated butterfly to regulate the exhaust flow and thus optimize torque at low engine speeds (smaller opening) and power (larger opening). Finally, two balance shafts largely eliminate the big mill’s vibrations and contribute to its smoothness.

The gearbox never flinches, shifting gears smoothly and easily. I did however find that the shifter was a bit long for my 1.75m frame.

A chassis worthy of the machine
The Roadliner’s aluminum chassis, similar to the Road Star Warrior, delivers an effective mix of stiffness, sturdiness and lightness, and benefits from forging and welding techniques that increase quality while reducing production costs.

The responsive 1,900cc twin-cylinder engine impressed me with abundant acceleration for a relatively heavy bike.