Easy to manoeuvre at low speeds – a tight U-turn with your feet on the pegs is no problem whatsoever – this baby always remains stable and obedient at highway cruising speeds. The generous ground clearance (over 150 mm), coupled with an 18-inch front wheel shod in a low-profile tire and a 17-inch rear wheel, ensure surprisingly agile handling and surprising cornering capabilities for such a considerable machine. It leans into corners effortlessly, and seems happy no matter what the angle.

(photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)

The brakes are up to the task generated by the mass and all those ponies. It features two super efficient, four-piston, monoblock calipers up front, the same ones found on the brand’s sportier models – and nearly as efficient and the famous Brembo products.

Style and ergonomics
From the very beginning, the Stratoliner line-up featured an exquisite design in the purest example of Art Deco from the inter-war period, with aerodynamic teardrop flashers, distinctive mudguards and a design that shows off the engine.

For the Deluxe, Yamaha replaced the windshield by a high and short fairing mounted on the impressive 1.25-inch diameter handlebars. The fairing features an iPod cradle linked to two quality loudspeakers, while buttons on the left grip allow you to adjust the sound system.

The nice and big colour-coordinated saddlebags feature a simple push-button locking mechanism that did give us a few problems. Located on the lid, the lock requires that you turn the button with the key to lock and unlock it, and press the button to open the case. We found ourselves more than a few times inadvertently opening the bag while trying to lock it. And thank you to the considerate motorist who signalled us that the bag in question was open!

Foot rests rather than pedals increase rider comfort, as does a two-piece heel-and-toe shifter with individually adjustable front and rear portions.

Flowing art-deco look - check out the pointed brake lights! (Photo: Yamaha)