Yamaha V-Star 650 Custom - 2016 Specifications and Reviews

The 2016 Yamaha V-Star 650 Custom is an approachable cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with manageable proportions. Its lightweight 233kg frame, low 710mm seat height, and responsive 650cc engine make it ideal for new and smaller-statured riders. Known for its retro aesthetic and user-friendly handling, this cruiser excels as an accessible entry point to the cruiser category.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2016
ModelYamaha V-Star 650 Custom

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Greenhouse gases110.4 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption4.76 litres/100 km (21.0 km/l or 49.42 mpg)
Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
IgnitionTCI
Fuel controlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
Fuel systemCarburettor. Mikuni BDS28 x 2
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x Stroke81.0 x 63.0 mm (3.2 x 2.5 inches)
Compression9.0:1
Torque50.99 Nm (5.2 kgf-m or 37.6 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM
Engine details70°, V-twin
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter200 mm (7.9 inches)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Front brakes diameter298 mm (11.7 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc
Rear tyre170/80-15
Front tyre100/90-19
Rear wheel travel86 mm (3.4 inches)
Rear SuspensionLink-type, preload-adjustable single rear shock
Front wheel travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Front Suspension41mm aluminum telescopic front fork
Trail102 mm (4.0 inches)
Frame typeSteel frame
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity16.00 litres (4.23 gallons)
Wheelbase1,610 mm (63.4 inches)
Overall width880 mm (34.6 inches)
Overall length2,340 mm (92.1 inches)
Overall height1,075 mm (42.3 inches)
Seat height710 mm (28.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc233.0 kg (513.7 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Light60/55-watt, halogen headlight
StarterElectric
Color optionsElectric White

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

7.5s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track10%
City60%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding65%
Touring50%
Passenger45%

Rider Profile

Best ForA friendly, approachable cruiser well suited to beginner and intermediate riders thanks to its low seat height and mellow torque delivery.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed, classic cruiser styling and easy round-town or weekend riding rather than outright speed or sport performance.
Rider FitThe low 710mm seat height and manageable 233kg weight make it accessible to shorter or less experienced riders, though the wide rear tyre and cruiser stance require some deliberate steering input.
CharacterA laid-back, torque-driven V-twin cruiser that rewards a smooth, unhurried riding style over aggressive throttle inputs.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, high-speed touring comfort, or any serious off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2016 Yamaha V-Star 650 Custom Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 710mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2016 Yamaha V-Star 650 Custom, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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