2008 Yamaha Roadliner Review

Test Drive

2008 Yamaha Roadliner S

If you’ve ever experienced the thrill of riding the Roadliner you will most likely agree that you can either love it or adore it. There’s simply no other way as this bike is built for pure satisfaction and I will number each of the elements that provide it during this section.

If you are considering the Roadliner but its size talks about heavy weight and trouble while trying to pick it up from its sidestand, I would have to strongly advise you to go with it because it is no challenge when it comes to picking it up, all contrary. Once you’ve swing a leg over it you will be accommodated in the most luxurious and commode space that a bike can create.

Handlebars are at quick reach and all the commands are standard positioned for ease of use and trouble free rides. What sets this bike apart is the dashboard implementing everything you could dream on and more. Everything from speedometer to self diagnostics is there. How about appearance? Simply wonderful!

I quickly fired up the 113-cubic-inch air-cooled pushrod 48-degree V-Twin featuring computer-controlled, twin-bore, fuel-injection monitoring multiple engine parameters to calculate perfect mixture under all conditions. Those mighty cylinders are fed by wide-angle 12-hole fuel injectors which provide excellent fuel atomization.

Once I got going, I was introduced to the nice exhaust note coming from a two-into-one exhaust system featuring Exhaust Ultimate Power valve. This contributed to the rush I got between 2500-3000 rpm and by that time, the sound was heading towards the levels where a gear changing is required.

Even so, the engine can be highly revved and once you’ve changed a gear, it is less likely to think about changing another one and another one. This is no R1 my friend but it is a damn cool motorcycle.

I enjoyed changing gears and clutch was smoothly operating also. First gear implies the usual noises but nothing special. I didn’t manage to miss any gears, so the tranny is precise and fair, I would say.

While I was playing with the throttle, clutch, and the gear shifter, I had the joy of noticing that the suspension equipment on this cruiser is simply wonderful as it manages to soak up the small bumps that the road presents, properly.

Those very same suspension in communion with that light and rigid aluminum frame allow for the bike to be leaned over easily o handling is a big plus on the Roadliner. You will also appreciate the fact that this bike seems to be on a diet once on the move but that is just the result of significant weight losses that the manufacturer reserved for this machine.

Engaged in a comfortable riding position and enjoying the nicely shaped saddle while my feet were accommodated on the floating floorboards, I had the time of my life on the twisty roads and I bet you will feel the same once on the Roadliner.

The braking equipment provides all of the stopping power is needed for this bike to stop. The front brake features a master cylinder with integrated lever which operates a pair of 298mm front discs. Strong monoblock calipers seem to be the proper solution for this machine. The rear end will provide the stopping power through a 320mm hydraulic disc so everybody will be satisfied.

I recommend you not to underestimate it, but to take it as it is: a true cruising machine with loads of power and torque available in any gear. It is more than I expected and it is most likely to have the same effect on you, also.

Price

Two color options are available: Candy Red/Raven or Seashell. For both, the suggested retail price is $14,980 and, without a doubt, you will only now start to appreciate this ride at its true value. It is important to consider the initial price because a bike like this will soon start to send you in search for accessories.

Conclusion

Is there any better conclusion than the fact that this machine is manufactured for pure rider satisfaction? Yes! The fact that the Roadliner S is the sweetest, coolest cruiser Yamaha has ever built.

Being designed for the serious chrome lover, the Roadliner S sees its way through any form of competition and qualifies on top of every list that you may encounter.

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