Yamaha add 'Stryker' to cruiser lineup

Detail touches on the new Stryker include steel guards front and rear, 40-degree rake, 21-inch front wheel and faux engine cooling fins.

High-torque V-twin engine and belt-drive 5-speed
At the heart of the new cruiser is a 1304cc liquid-cooled 60-degree SOHC v-twin engine that blends classic cruiser looks with modern technology. Torque-heavy, the v-twin features 4 valves per cylinder combined with a 9.5:1 compression ratio and performance-oriented camshafts. Massive 100mm diameter pistons run in ceramic composite cylinder sleeves, and the rocker arms are equipped with roller bearings for reduced frictional losses.

For that charismatic V-twin sound and feel, the Stryker runs with a single crankpin, while forged con rods ensure high levels of durability. Rider comfort is assured thanks to the fitment of dual counter balancers, while efficient engine performance is delivered via a sophisticated fuel injection system.

With its large 'air-cooling design' fins and unobtrusive radiator, Yamaha says the liquid-cooled v-twin possesses the classic good looks of a traditional air-cooled design. Coolant actually runs through hidden hoses and internal engine passages.

A striking large-diameter 2-into-2 exhaust system with slash cut tailpipes completes the engine package.

The smooth shifting 5-speed gearbox transmits the big V-twin engine pulses to the road via an efficient belt drive. As well as being clean and quiet running, the durable belt drive also requires minimal maintenance.

Classic chopper style
Stylistically, the Stryker borrows a few elements from the Bolt cruiser in its blackout parts and satin paint finish (on the Matt Grey model), but the stand-out feature is the radically raked front end which gives a classic 'chopper' image. Specially designed triple clamps give a fork rake of 40 degrees for a more aggressive and striking image.

Despite the rake, the Stryker's frame geometry and triple clamp configuration have been designed to give light and agile handling at lower speeds, for great all round performance in the city and on the highway.

The ultra-low stepped dual seat is only 670mm high at its lowest point, allowing the rider to get both feet on the ground when stationary for added comfort. Combined with raised pull-back handlebars and forward-mounted footrests, the low seat gives a relaxed riding position.

The Stryker is also equipped with steel front and rear guards, which Yamaha says makes it easier for owners to cut and modify them to suit their own requirements.

Beneath the customisable guards, styled 5-spoke aluminium wheels are fitted with low profile tyres. At the rear there's a wide 210/40-18 tyre, while the large diameter front wheel runs on a 120/70-21 tyre. The lightweight wheels are fitted with large diameter disc brakes, with a 320mm diameter front disc and 310mm rear.

Fuel capacity for the new Stryker is 15 litres, and wet weight is listed at 293kg.

The Stryker is available in two colours: Midnight Black and Matt Grey, with distinguishing tank graphics for each. The Midnight Black Stryker carries silver 'speedline' decals, while the Matt Grey model comes with the engine's "80 cubic inches" capacity callout on the tank sides.

Now available from Yamaha dealers Australia-wide, RRPs for the new Stryker are $14,999 for the Midnight Black model and $15,299 for the Matt Grey (both prices not including ORCs). A five-year warranty is common to both.

www.yamaha-motor.com.au