Menus
- The timeless Elegant
- Discovery
- In the saddle
- In the city
- Motorway and expressways
- Departmental
- Part-cycle
- Braking
- Comfort / Duo
- Consumption
- Conclusion
The timeless Elegant
Like other Japanese manufacturers, Yamaha offers a range of low riding bikes available in 3 models (XVS 950 A, XVS 1300 A) of which our XV 1900 A is the flagship. Well Named. Excessive, flashy, exhibitionist … this sometimes misguided universe of customs is certainly not that of the dark star that is the Midnight Star. Descended from the firmament of cruisers, beauty shines without flashy, like the shine of a metallic obsidian.
Discovery
Although discreet, the machine imposes a respectable but refined size. Its 2,580 mm long majestically stretch flexible lines, where fluidity is the key word. But in the old way. We thus subtly rediscover the aerodynamic and aesthetic cannons of the 1930s. Bugatti Type 57 Aerolithe or other Talbot-Lago T150 SS and their "Goutte d’Eau" concept seem to haunt the forms of the Japanese. Just as much as the Streamline style and that of the pre-war motorcycles. Indeed, the Midnight Star essentially cultivates a retro spirit on all its plastic and subtly plays with contrasts..
These principles will be found on each element. The wide, chrome-rimmed front optic hangs its long reflector, surmounted by the switch, on the arms covered with a massive fork. These 46mm diameter tubes benefit from a contained caster angle (for the segment) of 30 °, leaving the steer wheel close to the assembly. Sheathed in 3 lines of chrome running from the steering column, the large, flattened 16-liter fuel tank plunges towards the driver’s seat. Oversized, this is joined by a thick and fairly long passenger seat, capping the roundness of the rear buckle. The latter, supported by two satin aluminum commas bolted to the frame, plunges down to the ground, adorning its back with a diamond-cut LED light. These bevelled lines are also found on the ends of the aluminum swingarm. The latter supports the crown of a belt transmission, an almost compulsory mimicry for those who want to "cruiser" according to the codes in force..
These also require a V-twin engine. Although air-cooled and equipped with a four-valve per cylinder rocker valve, the Yamaha’s is one of the best of its kind and most modern. The 1854 cm3 block receives electronic injection and dual ignition. And to filter the vibrations of its big heart with forged pistons as well as possible, two balancing pendulums are placed on the crankshaft. Externally, its performance is just as remarkable. Pleasantly designed housings, shiny fins finely cutting the volumes of the cylinders, massive chrome columns of the push rods finely dress an ensemble carried by a classic cradle frame. But again, technology is essential. Made of die-cast aluminum, the frame has variable wall thicknesses, maximizing its rigidity. He will need some to contain the strength of his host…
And to capture its ample breath, two large gleaming collectors forming nervous S, lead the gases towards a long sparkling silencer. Tapered like a ball, its truncated end brings a touch of racy sportiness.
Attention to detail is extended to the brakes, whose fixed-type rear element is embellished with a decorated hoop. And no, you’re not dreaming. This one displays well 320 mm in diameter. Its track is bitten by a two-piston caliper while the front floating discs, two millimeters smaller, are attacked by four-piston calipers. This unprecedented difference is explained by the presence of a specific combined braking system (UBS: Unified Brake System). Pressing the pedal also activates the steering gear retarders..
Practicing elegance like asceticism, the Midnight Star is an object of ostentatious discretion. Its charm acts by contrast. First, between its definition and its outdated image. Its dark dress is highlighted by the brown colors of the cycle part, cylinder heads, engine cover and sharp lines of chrome elements. Note the metal arrow supporting the base of the mudguard or the exhaust line as well as the tapered indicators. Particularly neat, the general aesthetic suffers only an affront. On the left side, the presence of many unsightly hoses and wires is surprising, especially since, on the other hand, a massive sheath conducts its contents cleanly…
In the saddle
Lowered onto the large and soft saddle, only 705 mm high, which will allow the smallest rider to have their feet flat on the ground, the Yam ’effortlessly continues its plan of seduction. The instruments take place at the top of the chromed metal plate covering the tank. This superb console, with deliciously vintage graphics, offers a large tachometer overlooking two small counters with bluish needles, providing engine speed and fuel gauge. Finally, modernity requires, a digital window displays the time, two partials and a passage count in reserve. These functions are accessible either by a button on the left stalk or by a discreet button on the front curve of the container. Particularly refined, the speed figures appear either glossy or matt. At night, the backlight makes them turn blue and tints the background a pale green…
The hands fall very naturally on the cow horn type handlebars, with an unusual width. More than a meter separates the two thick handles. The oversize also affects the levers and their spacing unfortunately not adjustable. On the other hand, hydraulic jars and hoses are camouflaged, following the curves of the wide hanger. This is fixed to the upper tee purified by massive bridges, and also profiled.
Mostly designed for solo use, the Midnight Star still heals the eventual passenger. Its comfortable and long seat ensures excellent positioning, as do its sheathed toe clips. For its pilot, the driving position is almost similar to that offered by a wheelchair. The XV1900A will also accommodate its feet on large rubberized and curved platters.
Of balance type, the speed selector is doubled, making it possible to go up the reports with the heel. We regret the lack of storage space under the saddle, or elsewhere. A bit unfortunate in view of the size of the machine. Slightly tilted on its tapered crutch, it straightens up effortlessly despite its 347 kilos ready to cut the road. Balanced, the masses, even placed at the lowest, will not make the less strong forget the principles of Newton. However, the tuning fork star is easy to maneuver with the engine off … on flat ground.
In the city
It’s time to wake up sleeping beauty. Seeming to be the trouble, the starter however launches without difficulty the long race of the twin which purrs with the class befitting its personality. We will discover, therefore, that this low rider hides his game well. At a standstill, his breath evokes the quiet breathing of a transatlantic, with adjusted mechanics. But its discreet slow motion turns into a manly growl with each twist of the handle. Without excess, of course. Politeness requires, the Star does not harangue the surrounding ears.
Very smoothly, the cruiser takes off, already showing astonishing comfort. Its suspensions swallow the flaws of the streets without false note. Same happy observation for the five-speed gearbox. Indeed, the rather long gears, and the relative flexibility of the V-twin, picking up under 2,000 rpm, make it necessary to use the selector at low speed. Perfectly contained, the vibrations delivered are just the best, of those which delight without disturbing.
Although imposing, we take the Yam ‘peacefully between the lines, as long as there is enough space. In a good place in the tricolor, we then open the throttle fully without forgetting to grip the curved handlebars firmly. But where has our civilized companion gone? Accentuated by a position that is not very conducive to dragster-type acceleration, the effect is striking. Just like the one produced on passers-by. Being a Star’s friend makes you their best publicist. “Yes, this is a current model. No, it’s not a Harley. Yes, she is magnificent ”… etc. The elegance of the frame reflects once again on the pilot. Whatever the age of the layman, seduction works in full force.
To keep a good face, we will avoid turning around in front of our fan club. Without being an anvil, the turning radius of the XV1900A requires some room to turn around. Fi of urbanities. Flee from the mundane to restore height to the star.
Motorway and expressways
It’s time for the sports session. For you. Long before you do the flag, you will contract your abs, arms and shoulders to accompany the dark maid of heaven on her ecstatic ride. Bearable up to 110 km / h, the air pressure becomes much more painful afterwards.
To take the air, on his handlebars, is not a vain expression. Capable however of stalling 200 km / h at maximum speed, if you dare to accompany it, you will then use airbrake by resuming a more vertical posture. Pushing continuously to the red zone, the Yam ’showcases its“ only ”90 big guns, available at 4,750 rpm. Although limited, this power effectively serves the crew.
Legal, the almost two-liter Japanese then gurgles at 3,000 revolutions per minute on the last report. But the pace is already almost too high to appreciate the machine. In addition, the curved back posture, inherent in the low riding concept, will overcome your desires for speed. The celestial object will prefer to travel more slowly on non-toll lanes.
Departmental
Cruising on the handlebars of the Midnight Star makes perfect sense on the road. Following the full and loose of the departmental, the custom classic alternates under contemplative regimes and sidereal accelerations. From 2,500 rpm, 15.51 daNm (15.8 m.kg) of torque deforms the rear casing of the Dunlop D251. With a little angle, the fins are not uncommon, adding a little more spice to the hidden character of the Yamaha. Playing the mischievous, the Midnight Star knows how to drop the slit dress to put on a more sporty leather. Each curve exit is an excuse to stuff the twin-cylinder with unleaded, causing the exhaust to roar. Abandoning her role of wise icons, the beauty becomes a lethal creature, bewitching the crew with her dark magic. The long race for tuning forks sets the tone, then playing his fortissimo score and carrying the crew in a melodious and always controlled fury..
Perfectly healthy, the cycle part admits its limits during this somewhat too familiar use. If the frame cash without flinching a whimsical piloting, the suspensions, they come to pump on bad coating approached in curve. In the winding, we will have fun aiming for the rope using the optical unit, a true figurehead, and sliding the footrest plates in tight turns. Beware of frenzied optimists. The ground clearance, in accordance with the principle of the genre, quickly widens the trajectories.
To contain the outpouring of which the shooting star is capable, it is necessary to modulate its speed well upstream. Not very demonstrative, the front calipers require the imperative use of the imposing rear disc. In fact, the coupling makes deceleration much more satisfactory, without however being excellent..
The three and a half quintals of the black star would require even more controlled use of the braking force.
Part-cycle
Equipped with a rigid frame, the Yamaha cruiser is precise enough. Its geometry does not fall into excess despite its substantial length. The large lever arm provided by the handlebars and good balance make the bike lively and easy to turn around. Finally, adapted to its vocation where comfort governs everything, the damping could be more gradual on significant compressions.
Braking
Lacking attack and power, the two steering calipers seem to be struggling under heavy braking. Effective, combined braking is then welcome to support elements before a little fair. We also appreciate its use in curves and its gradual implementation.
Comfort / Duo
The "real" riders will not care, but the Midnight Star, as a great lady, knows how to host a duo. In addition, the passenger support strap is, for once, effective and ensures a real grip. This will in no way prevent him from hugging his favorite driver during the relaunches. Otherwise, we will continue the ballad together … But yes, count well: the Star and you! If the accompanying person insists, you will set up a sissy bar, available as an option. And tighten me these screws !
Consumption
In mixed use and at a good pace, the Japanese fireball will burst into full capacity in 200 km, or 7.5 liters per hundred kilometers, excluding reserve. Driven more moderately, the Yamaha will provide 50 better terminals. Logical performance in terms of its displacement, performance and overweight.
Conclusion
Between heaven and earth, cruiser and retro machine, the Midnight Star is a rare seducer. Its discretion ignites, its elegance bewitches … Soft, aesthetic but capable of intoxicating performance, this XV1900A UBS has all the arguments to nail the beak of certain bittersweet. Winged legend aside of course … However, its night owl plumage and more melodic ramage will appeal to those whom the sometimes overused image of Milwaukee machines puts off. We can then criticize its choice of a belt transmission, pleasant but economically more expensive than a cardan shaft in use. On this point, equipped with a shaft drive, the Suzuki Intruder M1800 R does better. At the expense of a less lifted finish and outrageous leg position. Priced at € 14,699 incl. Tax in the two-tone version (€ 14,399 as standard), this competitor plays placed. On the other side of the Pacific, we can oppose, to the custom tuning fork, a Harley Davidson Fat Bob Black ABS, asking € 15,990 to thrill your garage. Unless a Black Custom Super Glide seduces you for € 14,990.
Priced at € 16,499, the Midnight Star UBS is draped in its unparalleled style and flawless, high-end finish, to justify this slight price difference. Because its dynamic and timeless aesthetic places it outside the classic codes of cruisers. On board, each trip turns into a space-time trip. A contemporary time machine, the midnight star will take you to the end of ecstasy at any time. Guaranteed addiction.
Strong points
- Style
- Character and performance
- Part-cycle
- Global finishes
Weak points
- Slightly shy front braking
Competitors: Harley Davidson Fat Bob, Kawasaki VN 200, Suzuki Intruder 1800, Triumph Thunderbird 1600.
The technical sheet of the Midnight Star 1900
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