2018 Yamaha Star Venture First Look

Cycle News Staff | June 6, 2017

2018 Yamaha Star Venture First Look – Yamaha has jumped back into the luxury touring market in a big way with the all-new Star Venture. And we mean all new. New engine, new chassis, new electronics, new looks, new everything.

2018 Yamaha Star Venture First Look

Some of the highlights include an electric motor to aid parking, which isn’t anything new in this category, but what is new is that not only does it work in reverse, but forward, too! Yamaha calls it Sure-Park System. The new Star Venture also features a ride by wire throttle control system, Yamaha D-Mode (engine mode, Touring and Sport, the first for a luxury tourer), traction control, linked ABS braking, and cruise control. Heated grips and seat, smart key/fob ignition, and an electrically controlled windscreen are all standard equipment.

And Yamaha didn’t forget about the passenger. The back seat, with a 17-inch wide backrest that is three-position adjustable, is spacious, and handholds are large and, yes, handy, and both seats and backrests are independently heated. Even the rear floorboards are adjustable. (And if your driver is really considerate and steps up for the upgrade package, you’ll also get your own sound system!)

A seven-inch full-color LCD screen displays an array of information. Controlled via touchscreen, handlebar controls or voice commands via accessory headset and mic, the infotainment package gives the rider access to vehicle control and data, a range of audio sources and wireless Bluetooth communications options. There are also two USB ports and a 12-volt power port; there is 750 watts of total output.

The fairing is frame-mounted, and total storage capacity is a generous 38 gallons of volume. The trunk alone will easily accommodate two full-face helmets.

2018 Yamaha Star Venture First Look

The air-cooled, OHV, 1854cc V-twin engine, Yamaha claims, delivers a smile-generating 126 ft-lbs of torque, and will turn a super-relaxed 2750 rpm while cruising along at 75 mph in overdrive—sixth gear.

Shifting is aided by an assist and slipper clutch.

With a 6.6-gallon fuel tank, Yamaha says that you’ll get over 220 miles between fill ups.

Lighting is full LED: four headlights, taillights, turn signals, and fog lights, which—the fog lights—only come with the upgrade package.

Yes, an upgrade package is available. With the Transcontinental Option Package, you get GPS navigation, SiriusXM Satellite radio, Dual Zone audio (which allows the rider and passenger to listen to different music and set controls individually at the same time), CB radio, rear speakers, security alarm and said fog lights. For the upgrade, tack on another $2000 to the $24,999 base price.

The Venture also comes with a five-year warranty.

You have two color options—Granite Gray, and Raspberry Metallic.

Yamaha will be offering demo rides at these events: Star Days (Red Wing, Minnesota), Sturgis, AIMExpo, Biketoberfest and miscellaneous dealer locations.

A $500 deposit will ensure earliest possible delivery. CN