In true custom spirit, the Yamaha Raider XV1900 is all about attention to detail, and the result is nothing less than amazing. Yamaha's design team are masters of style, even more so when it comes to the fit and finish of its high-end models. This mastery is ever present throughout the Raider, from its elegant swingarm, through to its gorgeous top triple clamp and innovatively designed headlight and steering mounts.


Witness the eye-catching aerodynamic design of the brake master-cylinder and hydraulic clutch reservoir, as well as the teardrop designed gas tank with its chrome-ringed retro-styled gauge cluster.

Both hydraulic and electrical harnesses and tubing are well hidden and add to the overall styling of this big cruiser. Every millimeter of this bike has received meticulous attention.

A twin-cylinder work of art
The Raider is moved by a massive V-twin air-cooled pushrod powerplant. Fuel is fed by a sophisticated 43mm, twin-bore, downdraft throttle body fuel injection system. Whether cruising or idling, the 1,854cc V-twin is at one with its rider, thanks to the single pin design of its crankshaft and hydraulic lifters which, provide that special V-twin sound and pulse so sought after by aficionados.

Between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm, the engine pushes effortlessly thanks to its 123 ft-lb of torque. Like most of its counterparts, this engine isn't very enthusiastic in the upper ranges. This smooth and powerful engine is coupled to a five-speed transmission geared for strong low-rpm acceleration and relaxed highway cruising, which uses to a low-maintenance belt drive system to deliver power to the wheel.

Between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm, the engine pushes effortlessly thanks to its 123 ft-lb of torque. (Photo: Pascal Bastien)

A chopper on its best behaviour
All this fine machinery is mated to an aluminum frame, which is very uncommon in this category. The Yamaha engineers paid close attention to the ''chopper-inspired'' frame and front fork that stand out for their bold design and excellent handling characteristics and stability, which is what we have come to expect from Yamaha’s Star products.

Of course, you can still expect to supply a bit more effort while cornering, and this bike does require a higher skill level at low speeds. Nonetheless, this bike is never too much to handle, which is a rare trait for this type of machine. The Raider is equipped with two 298 mm front and one 320 mm rear discs, which provide longer than average braking performance. The usual brake setup for this category of machine calls for one front disc only.

You can still expect to supply a bit more effort while cornering, and this bike does require a higher skill level at low speeds. (Photo: Pascal Bastien)

Styling and substance in rare harmony
Thanks to its large wide well-designed seat, a well-calibrated suspension which never bottoms out, and a riding position that is not too narrow, ride-comfort on the Raider XV1900 is quite acceptable. Passengers will find a certain degree of comfort as well. On uneven pavement the ride can be a bit choppy, but this is what you can expect from the ''low-rider'' type styling of the Raider. The majority of riders in this category are more than willing to put up with this behavior.

Thanks to its large wide well-designed seat. (Photo: Pascal Bastien)

With its high-mounted triple clamp, large gas tank, and small windscreen, the Raider XV1900 provides better than average wind protection. Instrumentation is comprised of a fuel gauge, an oversized analogue speedometer, and various other gauges.

With its massive weight (730 lbs or 331 kg) and its powerful engine, the Raider requires a higher than average skill level to safely handle. This is not a beginner’s bike, as you may have guessed by now. It still remains much easier to ride than most choppers. This is one stylish bike, which you need not sacrifice comfort, style, or handling in order to enjoy. Great looks, awesome sound and performance, what more can you ask for when the road beckons?

Pros
Inspired chopper styling
Impeccable fit and finish
Great ride and handling for a chopper
Seductive drivetrain

Cons
Stretched-out riding position
Choppy ride under certain conditions