YAMAHA XVS950 MIDNIGHT STAR (2009 - 2013) Review

MCN rating 4 out of 5 (4/5)

Owners' rating 5 out of 5 (5/5)

Yamaha Midnight Star - exhaust looks quality

Highlights

Great value compared to a bigger models
Big bike look and feel despite smaller engine
Doesn't have the same kudos as an American marque

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating:	4.8 out of 5 (4.8/5)
Power:	55 bhp
Seat height:	Low (26.6 in / 675 mm)
Weight:	High (615 lbs / 279 kg)

Prices

New N/A

Used £4,200 - £4,700

View bikes for sale

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes

4 out of 5 (4/5)

Having entered and dominated every category of motorbike from small capacity commuters to prototype racers, the Japanese manufacturers set their focus on the custom cruiser scene.

You’d never guess this XVS950 was an entry level model from Yamaha, at only £6500 when it was new, it offered a hell of a lot of bike for the money. It's such good value that it makes you question whether you need a larger bike, as this 950cc machine does everything a 1200cc or more cruiser does and is considerably cheaper.

It feels large, like a proper custom bike should and it's comfortable, too. The strong engine is more than enough for two up touring, yet is still easy to ride and rider friendly.

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine

3 out of 5 (3/5)

You have to remember the Yamaha XVS950 is a custom cruiser and obviously aimed at very different audience to a sportsbike. However, for me the foot boards still scrape far too early and ground clearance is limited.

But I’m told most custom buyers aren’t bothered about a lack of ground clearance. Stability is excellent and the brakes aren’t half bad either, better than the competition from the US. Comfort wise it’s near perfect.

Engine

Next up: Reliability

4 out of 5 (4/5)

At the heart of any cruiser worth its salt you'll find a thumping V-twin engine and so to give riders an authentic experience, that's what they've fitted to the XSV.

The 90 degree V-Twin in this bike is an entirely new engine and not a bored out version of the old model. It actually produces more torque than bhp which is ideal for this market.

It’s not arm-ripping torque like a large capacity Harley-Davidson but more than enough for this bike. The fuel injection is faultlessly controlled by Mikuni.

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value

4 out of 5 (4/5)

If heritage and authenticity isn't the reason you'd turn to Yamaha for your cruiser, build quality and reliability could be. While modern Harley-Davidsons have come a long way, back in the noughties they had a shakey reputation.

Some of the plastic chrome on the XVS does let the bike down in places, for me it’s a little too much. It doesn’t pass the quality tap test, however you have to remember the very low price tag.

On the whole the finish is high, the exhaust looks quality. Reliability wise the low revving motor should be bullet proof and the belt drive reduces running costs.

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment

5 out of 5 (5/5)

This is where the new Yamaha XVS950A Midnight Star really scores its points. It feels quality, rides and looks far better than the low price tag suggests. An entry level custom that does everything its larger brothers do but considerably cheaper and easier to live with and ride.

Modern equivalents in the entry-level cruiser market include the Harley-Davidson Nightster, Kawasaki Vulcan S and the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650.

Find a Yamaha Midnight Star for sale

Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

The Yamaha XVS950A Midnight Star is straightforward as it’s a custom cruiser, however the rear still has 8 way preload adjustment for taking a pillion and luggage. Just a single disc brake up at the front, which is asking a lot, stopping a hefty 279kg. Analogue speedo is incorporated into the tank in true custom style. Compare and buy products for the Yamaha XVS950A Midnight Star in the MCN Shop.

Specs
Engine size	942cc
Engine type	8v (85 x83), 5 gears
Frame type	Steel cradle frame
Fuel capacity	17 litres
Seat height	675mm
Bike weight	279kg
Front suspension	41mm conventional forks
Rear suspension	Single shock, preload adjust only
Front brake	320mm radial 2 piston caliper
Rear brake	298mm disc single piston
Front tyre size	130/70x18
Rear tyre size	170/60x16

Mpg, costs & insurance
Average fuel consumption	53 mpg
Annual road tax	£117
Annual service cost	-
New price	-
Used price	£4,200 - £4,700
Insurance group	13 of 17 How much to insure?
Warranty term	Two year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance
Max power	55 bhp
Max torque	58.1 ft-lb
Top speed	120 mph
1/4 mile acceleration	-
Tank range	196 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

None

Other versions

None

Owners' reviews for the YAMAHA XVS950 MIDNIGHT STAR (2009 - 2013)

5 owners have reviewed their YAMAHA XVS950 MIDNIGHT STAR (2009 - 2013) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your YAMAHA XVS950 MIDNIGHT STAR (2009 - 2013)

Summary of owners' reviews
Overall rating:	5 out of 5 (5/5)
Ride quality & brakes:	4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Engine:	4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Reliability & build quality:	4.8 out of 5 (4.8/5)
Value vs rivals:	4.8 out of 5 (4.8/5)
Equipment:	4 out of 5 (4/5)

5 out of 5 Full on custom cruiser with great engine and looks

13 May 2018 by Fastcol

Year: 2014

A great looking cruiser without the ‘image’ of a Harley Davidson, looking more like a Victory. Easy, torquey engine with great handling although footboards limit lean angle. It has decent brakes and a low, comfy seat. My second one of these and absolutely love it.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Low long and completely cool.

Engine 5 out of 5

Lazy torquey engine pulls like a train.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Unbelievable value for money compared to Harley Davidsons, legendary Yamaha build quality.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Looks like a Victory but at a fraction of the cost.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Not fitted any extras to mine, prefer the factory look.

Buying experience: Purchased used from a dealer, good price and got delivery chucked in.

5 out of 5 XVS-950A

16 January 2010 by Blue echo

XVS-950A great bike had mine now for 3-month, first service done and dusted, changed my GSX-R600, for the Yam, should have done it earlier, no more aching knees, well I am 63-1/3, loving every minute riding It, Thanks to Dave at South Wales Supper-bikes for their help and advice. It does what it says on the CAN !!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 4 out of 5

5 out of 5 VXS950A 2009 Part 2

12 October 2009 by ssnow

Just had 1st service today 12/10/09 - no problems, the bike continues to impress me with every ride, its one of those bikes you can just ride and ride....If any of you thought 'no way would I ride a cruiser', I've got news for you! You may well be suprised and enjoy it!! I am and look forward to many thousands of comfortable riding. Thanks to Pheonix Motorcycles of Trowbridge,Wiltshire a great bunch of guys and great service. Thanks.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Engine 4 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Equipment 3 out of 5

5 out of 5 XVS950A 2009

28 September 2009 by ssnow

Well what can I tell you?, I have px'd my 2006 ZX10R Sports bike for the Yamaha XVS Midnight Star 950....Why oh Why I here you cry!!...Well I'm nearly 50 now, so it was time for a change..the 10r was a fantastic speed machine..105mph in first gear,180+ mph etc......It just came to the fact that you can't use all that go on UK roads....So,enter the XVS950..Why the 950?, because it looks great,heavy it is,but not as much as the 1300's or larger cruisers..Quality is very good, mines black and sets the chrome off, belt drive is a plus(no lube),nice cast wheels,great comfort and v good fuel economy 55 to 59 mpg avearge. No it won't do 120 mph as MCN states - about 112 indicated is yer lot ( about 105 actual) unless you get flat out down a very long slope,then you might see 115 -120 on the clocks. Handling is acceptable as are the brakes ( rear brake if good and progressive),handling spoilt and limited by the running board skids touching down at the mearest lean angle( but it puts a smile on your face). To quiet as standard...so put a 1" hole cutter up the can,you will need a 14" extension piece..Now it sounds great with a nice Blat Blat....also look at the airbox it takes its air from between the cylinder bank ( read very hot)...so drill two 22mm holes in the underside of black plastic airbox...Ah!, fresh cool air.... Fitted a Puig screen from Ebay 108 euro from Germany...bargain, good fit and £200 less than Mr Yamaha.... A good bike, I am pleased with it. They are now £7120 otr.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Engine 4 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Equipment 3 out of 5

5 out of 5 JUST RIGHT FOR ME

09 June 2009 by 88RMH

JUST GOT IT AND I LOVE IT !!!!!!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Engine 5 out of 5

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5