Designers worked in parallel with engineers because this bike didn’t just had to look good, but it had to perform as well. But Rome wasn’t built in a day. Many aspects would have to be carefully looked after. The rider would only appreciate true cruising performance once it was properly accommodated so that was the start.
This is also what I first tested when I faced the Silverado. I noticed that the low seat is firm and comfortable, exactly how it should be for those long trips from state to state. Handlebars are at quick reach and involve no stretching or inconvenience while grabbing them. The only thing missing to complete the triangle is the floorboard arrangement. This allow for your feet to be forward positioned for maximum long range comfort.
I could have gotten used to the comfy ergonomics but city traffic soon determined me to maneuver the Road Star Silverado slowly but this was a good opportunity to see how the 712 lb feel underneath me. I have to say that this machine, despite the fact it is big, pretty heavy and receives its respect thanks to those features, doesn’t become a nightmare when it comes to slow speed maneuvering, no matter the situation.
Anyway, I wasn’t going to push it front and back all day so I headed outside town where I could get that precious feedback that makes a bike good or less good.
Here, I was glad that the engine and belt drive are not just a part of the look. Both perform spotless but what I immediately noticed is how the massive V-twin pulls hard from down low. This is how the engine was tuned before it was fuel injected but this new equipment has significantly improved the way the motor pulls. Stump-pulling torque is also fabulous but my “plus” heads towards strong and smooth acceleration.
The clutch is easy to pull and engages smoothly so the bike’s predictable character is easy to get used with. Shifting doesn’t require too much concentration because the five-speed tranny is very precise and will never allow you to miss any gears. I certainly didn’t.
Massive and a little heavy in town, the Road Star Silverado only keeps the first feature once it gets out on the highway as the weight disappears with the speed increase. While I was cruising at 70 mph I began to appreciate the adjustable windshield which provides proper wind protection and certainly increases the levels of comfort on board. This was also the time when I extended my feet out in a relaxed riding position and wished I could take this baby home with me.
Handling is predictable both in and out of town. The highway really made me underestimate this cruiser’s abilities but the Road Star Silverado only needed a few twists and turns to change my opinion.
I appreciate the dual front brakes because these are encountered on powerful machines which apart from going fast, also need to stop pretty fast. This is no R1 but it brakes strongly and reassuring for a cruiser.
The end of the day found me very relaxed and with a big smile on my face. This was mostly due to comfortable seating position and, very important, the way the suspensions function. Excellent that is! Stable bike at high speeds and stable as well under hard braking.
Thinking back from the start of the day until I swing my leg off it I would conclude that this is one hell of a cruiser. It simply offers everything this type of rider needs: powerful acceleration starting with 2000 rpm, stability at high speeds, great ergonomics, and reliable brakes. What else could you ask for? Ohh, it looks awesome, too!
Price
The Cobalt Blue painted Road Star Silverado can be just the machine for you if my test ride gave a clue but, as you know, everything comes at a price. Thank Yamaha that in this case, no exaggerations are being made with the MSRP of $13,599. The only think that will make you wait will be the fact that the 2008 model year will only be available starting with march 2008. I bet I’m going to see some more activity out on the highway at that time.
Conclusion
With the 2008 Road Star Silverado, Yamaha proves that it can have a motorcycle which is perfectly good and take it to a whole new level. This time, it was all about fuel injection, but what will it be the next time?
Featuring an excellent riding position and a low center of gravity which results in stability at high speeds, this cruiser only needed fuel injection so as the recipe would be complete and now that it has it, history can be written, trouble excluded.
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