Four stroke, 60°V-cylinder, SOHC, 4
valve per cylinder
Capacity
942 cc / 57.4 cu-in
Bore x Stroke
85 x 83mm
Cooling System
Air cooled
Compression Ratio
9.0:1
Induction
35mm dual bore throttle body fuel injection
Ignition
Digital TCI
Starting
Electric
Max Power
52.4 hp / 38.6 kW @ 6000 rpm
Max Torque
7.8 kgf-m / 56.7 ft-lb @ 3000rpm
Transmission
5 Speed
Final Drive
Belt
Frame
Steel double-cradle
Front Suspension
41mm forks
Front Wheel Travel
134 mm / 5.3 in
Rear Suspension
Adjustable link Monocross
Rear Wheel Travel
110 mm / 4.3 in
Front Brakes
Single 320mm disc
Rear Brakes
Single 298mm disc
Front Tyre
130/70-18
Rear Tyre
170/70-16
Rake
32.0°
Trail
102 mm / 4.0 in
Dimensions
Length 2435 mm / 95.9 in
Width 1000 mm / 39.4 in
Height 1080 mm / 42.5 in
Wheelbase
1685 mm / 66.3 in
Seat Height
675mm / 26.6 in
Wet Weight
278 kg / 611.6 lbs
Fuel Capacity
17 Liters
/ 4.4 US gal
All-new Yamaha XVS950A Midnight Star
Full-size cruiser performance with a lightweight feel
Powered by a newly-designed 942cc high-torque air-cooled V-twin SOHC engine
housed in an easy-handling long-and-low chassis, the all-new Yamaha XVS950A
Midnight Star brings an exciting and refreshing 'new style classic' look to the
sub 1,000cc cruiser category.
This unique and original new machine is aimed at the customer who wants
genuine 'heavyweight' cruiser style and gutsy V-twin torque combined with punchy
performance, light feeling handling and a rider-friendly character. Until now,
the choice for new riders looking for a 'real' full-sized cruiser has been
limited to larger-capacity 1,000cc+ V-twin models whose higher weight and
bulkier bodywork can sometimes be intimidating for less experienced bikers.
With its compact new high-torque air-cooled V-twin engine, as well as a long
and low chassis, a low seat height, and class-leading modern styling, the
easy-to-handle Midnight Star 950 opens up a new chapter in cruiser design. For
2009 those wild-at-heart riders of all ages will have the chance to own a
genuine V-twin cruiser whose looks, image, character and performance ensure that
it delivers real street credibility.
Although the machine benefits from the use of advanced Yamaha technology,
great care has been taken to ensure that this new bike retains the essential
simplicity of design that characterizes every classic cruiser.
For example, our engineers spent a great deal of time tuning the new exhaust
system in order to accentuate the soulful low-frequency sounds and eliminate
high frequency noise. Likewise, much effort was put into creating an efficient
intake system which not only enhances performance, but also emits a good intake
sound boost pulse feeling from low speeds right through to the high speed range.
The new Midnight Star 950 runs with a large-diameter 18-inch front wheel in
order to lighten the handling feel and emphasize the bike's image of lightness -
and for ease of use and enhanced controllability, the fuel tank narrows
considerably at the rear.
This extreme attention to every detail - however small - is evident
throughout the machine, and the end result is a high quality machine which adds
a new dimension to the cruiser world. With its high-torque V-twin air-cooled
engine, steel fenders, belt drive and long and low style - as well as new-style
classic cruiser looks and a simple, clean-cut design, the all-new Midnight Star
950 delivers full-sized performance with a lightweight feel and easy handling.
In order to achieve the design team's goals of creating a new generation
cruiser with a lightweight feel and gutsy performance, the Midnight Star 950 is
driven by a newly-designed high-torque 942cc air-cooled V-twin 4-valve SOHC
engine with fuel injection.
For optimum low to mid-range performance, the 942cc engine runs with almost
'square' bore x stroke dimensions of 85.0 mm x 83.0 mm, and the highly efficient
pent-roof combustion chamber delivers a compression ratio of 9.0:1. (For
comparison, the Midnight Star 1300 features a bore x stroke of 100.0 mm x 83.0
mm, and a compression ratio of 9.5:1.) The combination of a 4-valve head with a
pent-roof combustion chamber and a 'square' configuration gives the engine a
punchy torque output for strong acceleration and rapid overtaking potential.
This compact new V-twin engine utilizes the same three axes (crankshaft/front
cylinder cam/rear cylinder cam) as the larger-capacity Midnight Star 1300 to
give a compact V-bank, but it has a very different power delivery character as a
result of the elimination of the balancer mechanism. By not equipping this new
V-twin with a balancer mechanism, our engineers have been able to enhance the
pulse feeling and also minimize the new engine's crankcase dimensions and
weight.
In addition, the decision to adopt air cooling has given our designers more
freedom in creating a clean and simple profile which further emphasizes the
light feel and image of this new-generation cruiser.
This gutsy new 942cc 60° V-twin also features state-of-the-art internals,
including lightweight forged pistons, a ceramic plated cylinder and highly
efficient 4-valve cylinder head, as well as many newly-designed components
including cams, valves, throttle body, oil pump, crankshaft, connecting rods,
clutch, transmission gears, crankcase cover and exhaust system.
Optimized squish area design
In any big-bore engine design, the combustion flame must travel a greater
distance than on a smaller bore engine, and so in order to ensure high
combustion efficiency, the new Midnight Star 950 engine features pent-roof
combustion chambers with a specially-designed squish area. By forcing the
fuel/air mix towards the centre of the combustion chamber more quickly, the
optimized squish area gives a faster combustion speed, which gives stronger
throttle response and higher levels of performance.
60° V-twin engine design with uneven firing interval
One of the most significant and defining features to be found on the new
942cc V-twin engine is the uneven firing interval. Combustion takes place at
300° and 420°, which makes for a distinctive and pleasing engine pulse, and it
is this uneven beat that gives the new Midnight Star 950 such an appealing and
special character, as well as a gutsy exhaust note.
In order to enhance the lightweight feeling with pulse generated by the
uneven firing sequence, this new V-twin engine features no balancer shaft, which
not only strengthens the gutsy character, but also makes for easy revving and
strong response. Vibration is minimized by the use of lightweight forged pistons
and connecting rods, and rubber mounts for the handlebars and footboards ensures
high levels of rider comfort.
Eliminating the balancer shaft also brings with it a number of other
advantages, including reduced gear noise, lower engine weight, and more
efficient engine operation and better response thanks to a decrease in pumping
losses.
This compact new engine also features a 60° cylinder bank, and this
relatively narrow angle between the two air-cooled cylinders contributes to the
bike's concentration of mass, which accentuates the lighter handling feeling - a
central theme of this new-generation cruiser's very special character.
Specially-shaped cylinder fins
The Midnight Star 950's muscular looking air-cooled V-twin engine is the
focal point of this new-generation cruiser, and the beautifully-designed
cylinder fin layout adds to the appeal of the classic V-twin architecture. By
shaping the fins so that those at the top of the cylinder are wider than those
at the base, each cylinder's fin outline creates a V-form, with the sharp end of
the 'V' pointing towards the centre of the crank axis.
This design feature underlines the classic cruiser image of the Midnight Star
950, and is complemented by the buff finish on the cylinder head fins to give a
handsome, high quality feel to the bike. Few engines capture the original spirit
of motorcycling as well as the classic V-twin layout, and by specially shaping
the air-cooling fins to form a 'V' profile, Yamaha's designers have succeeded in
creating an authentic modern-day classic.
Right side-mounted air intake
The compact new 942cc V-twin has been developed to produce strong low to
mid-range torque with punchy performance, and in order to ensure outstanding
intake efficiency a large-capacity 3-litre air cleaner box is mounted on the
right side of the V-cylinder block. Featuring a triangular shape, and located
between the 60° V-bank, this stylish air box emphasizes the V-twin
configuration.
For optimal efficiency combined with a pleasing intake sound, particular
attention has been paid to the design of the ducting which has been specially
tuned to produce the right note. At lower speeds the intake emits a throaty
burble, while at higher speeds the intake note complements the exhaust sound to
accentuate the engine's pulse
feel.
Fuel injection
For strong performance across the rpm range, together with minimized
emissions, the 4-valve cylinder head's pent-roof combustion chambers are fed by
a sophisticated 4-hole, 2-directional fuel injection system. Equipped with a 35
mm diameter throttle body, these injectors aim the spray directly at the valve
surfaces which ensures good atomization of the fuel for faster and more complete
combustion.
Various sensors transmit data on air temperature, atmospheric and intake air
pressure, engine temperature, crank position, speed, throttle position and
exhaust oxygen levels to the ECU which then adjusts the fuel injection system to
ensure optimal combustion efficiency.
This system is designed to offer excellent drivability together with instant
response and efficient operation, and for outstanding idling stability which is
set at 950-1050 rpm, an Idle Speed Control (ISC) valve is fitted.
Forged aluminium pistons and ceramic composite plated cylinders
In addition to its high performance 4-valve cylinder head design and highly
efficient fuel injection system, the latest addition to Yamaha's cruiser family
benefits from new lightweight forged aluminium pistons. As well as being
immensely strong, the Midnight Star 950's compact forged pistons also help to
reduce reciprocating weight, which in turn makes for a smoother running engine
and also makes for excellent throttle response.
The running efficiency of these lightweight forged pistons run is further
enhanced by the use of ceramic composite plated cylinders, which ensure more
effective heat dissipation, and also help to minimize oil consumption.
Roller rocker arm for smoother engine performance
This new-generation cruiser benefits from a number of design features aimed
at enhancing both the feel and the performance of the new V-twin engine,
including the elimination of the balancer, as well as the adoption of an uneven
firing sequence and the fitment of an efficient fuel injection system.
Another important feature which plays a vital part in making this one of the
most impressive performers in the class is the roller rocker arm valve lift
mechanism.
The Midnight Star 950's advanced rocker arm design features a revolving
slipper mounted on a needle roller bearing, which dramatically reduces the
friction normally generated between a conventional slipper and the cam - which
features a tough Isonite coating for optimum engine performance. In addition to
reducing frictional losses, this roller rocker arm also permits the use of a cam
and valve spring design that gives a softer valve seating speed. Another
advantage is that valve overlap can be reduced for stronger low to mid-range
performance, and exhaust emissions can also be cut.
Right-side exhaust system with 2-1 muffler and 3-way catalytic converter
The exhaust system has been developed to complement the new fuel injection
system's settings, and features a neat 2-1 design running along the bike's right
side. The muffler is a simple two-stage expansion type design which has been
designed to accentuate the feel and character of the engine's uneven firing
sequence, and to give a good strong pulse in the low to mid-range.
This compact and minimalist two-into-one exhaust system is equipped with an
oxygen sensor which transmits data to the ECU to ensure the optimal fuel/air mix
is injected for efficient combustion, and a 3-way catalytic converter ensures
that this new V-twin surpasses EU3 requirements.
The distinctive beat of the engine is one of the most striking features of
the new Midnight Star 950, and the quality of the bike's exhaust note is the
result of intensive testing. Our engineers have developed a system in which high
frequency sounds have been eliminated, and the low frequency note was
accentuated, in order to ensure a gutsy and evocative exhaust note.
Smooth-shifting 5-speed transmission
The new Midnight Star 950's transmission has been designed specifically to
accentuate the gutsy character of the new air-cooled V-twin engine. The five
gear ratios have been carefully chosen so that they enable the rider to enjoy
fully the bike's remarkably strong low to mid-range torque wave, and fifth gear
has been set to deliver relaxed and comfortable cruising.
The gears also feature a straight-cut type dog design for even smoother
shifting, and this - together with the instant supply of torque at the twist of
the throttle - makes for a relaxing and enjoyable riding experience, together
with spirited acceleration.
Elimination of balancer shaft for reduced weight and stronger engine pulse
feeling
Specially-shaped tapered cylinder fin layout for classic V-twin style
Right side-mounted air intake with tuned induction noise
Large-capacity 3-litre air cleaner box
Efficient fuel injection for instant response and reduced emissions
Optimized squish area design for efficient combustion
Forged aluminium pistons and ceramic composite plated cylinders
Roller rocker arms for smoother engine performance
Right-side 2-1 muffler and 3-way catalytic converter
Smooth-shifting 5-speed transmission with straight-cut gear dogs
Chassis
New-design double-cradle steel frame
The Midnight Star 950's new double cradle frame has been designed to deliver
a lightweight handling feeling, and this has been achieved by designing a
structure which offers varying degrees of rigidity in different areas in order
to achieve an idealized rigidity balance. The new frame is especially rigid
around the head pipe area, whilst the torsional rigidity is set at a relatively
lower level in order to introduce a degree of forgiveness into the handling
characteristics, which makes for high levels of surface feedback and increased
rider comfort.
The relationship between the frame's torsional, lateral and longitudinal
rigidity levels has been carefully selected by our engineers following extensive
testing, and the result is a chassis whose roadholding and handling
characteristics complement the performance of the high-torque engine.
From an aesthetic point of view, the design of the new double cradle frame
projects an image of simplicity and functionality, which perfectly matches the
classic lines of the new air-cooled V-twin powerplant. The engine is mounted to
the frame with rigid mounts, with one at the cylinder head and three on the
crankcase, and by using the engine as a stressed member the overall chassis
weight can be minimized. The four rigid engine mounts also help to accentuate
the uneven firing pulse feeling, to give a characterful and enjoyable riding
experience.
Long-wheelbase lightweight chassis
Running with a wheelbase of 1,685 mm, this new generation Yamaha cruiser has
the longest wheelbase in its class, and although it measures only 5 mm less than
the Midnight Star 1300, the stylish new Midnight Star 950 is actually a full
25kg* lighter than its bigger brother. * Note: wet weight difference
Compared to other machines in its class, the Midnight Star 950 delivers a
much lighter and sportier handling experience, and one of the major contributors
to this aspect of the bike's character is the positioning of the air-cooled
V-twin engine. Compared to the larger Midnight Star 1300, the new Midnight Star
950's engine sits further forward in the chassis to give more weight over the
front wheel for an optimized front/rear weight distribution.
In addition to the sportier front/rear weight bias, this new Yamaha cruiser
features a caster angle of 32°10', which, when combined with a trail of 145 mm
and the increased front wheel weight loading, ensures outstanding handling
performance in a wide range of conditions, from relaxed highway cruising through
to sporty riding on winding roads.
Low seat height
In order to ensure that the new Midnight Star 950 delivers the high levels of
riding comfort and ease of use that our designers set out to achieve, a low seat
height of only 675 mm is featured, compared to 715 mm on the Midnight Star 1300.
This newly designed seat is narrow at the front, in order to match the slim
rear section of the new fuel tank, and this makes it easier for riders to put
their feet on the ground when stationary or riding at low speeds in traffic
jams. Combined with the tapered fuel tank - as well as the angle of bend used in
the pull-back handlebars, and the position of the footboards, this low seat
gives a natural riding position which enhances overall comfort and
controllability.
18-inch front wheel with 130/70-18 tyre
Another important factor which makes a significant contribution to the bike's
lightweight handling and steering qualities is the use of an 18-inch front wheel
fitted with a relatively narrow 130/70-18 front tyre.
One of the main goals of the Yamaha's Midnight Star 950 design team was to
create a new type of cruiser which would offer light and easy handling
characteristics, and the use of this narrower, lower profile 18-inch front tyre
is a key element in achieving these aims.
In classic cruiser tradition, a wide-section 170/70-16 tyre is fitted for
optimal traction and excellent rider and passenger cruising comfort.
Newly-designed aluminum wheels front and rear
The newly-designed 8-spoke front and rear wheels complement the bike's
classic, lightweight and sporty cruiser design, and help to minimize the
unsprung weight for smooth and responsive suspension action. The front wheel is
18 x MT3.50, while the rear measures 16 x MT4.50. Furthermore, the spokes
feature a two-prong design where they meet the rim, which accentuates the image
of lightness which characterizes this excitingly different new cruiser.
Steel front and rear fenders
The new Midnight Star 950 is equipped with steel front and rear fenders to
underline its classic style.
At the front end the slimline fender features a short front section and a
flared rear end which accentuates the size of the new larger-diameter 18-inch
front wheel, while the steel rear fender is cut horizontally at mid-wheel height
for a classic cruiser look.
Teardrop fuel tank with wide upper surface
By using 3D CAD techniques, Yamaha's designers have succeeded in creating a
classic teardrop fuel tank which looks light and slim, and yet has a sizeable
capacity of 17 liters
. Viewed from the side, this stylish tank has a low profile
and looks extremely slim - even though there is a built-in fuel pump - giving
this cruiser an even lighter look.
In traditional cruiser fashion, the teardrop shaped fuel tank has a wide
upper surface, and viewed from above this beautifully sculpted design tapers
towards the rear to give a very slim section near the rider's knees, making it
easy to get both feet on the ground. The sharply tapered shape also underlines
the bike's sporty image, and gives a visual expression of speed.
This new fuel tank is a distinctive styling element to be seen on the
Midnight Star 950, and it has been manufactured using Yamaha's exclusive
pressing technology which enables the production of increasingly complex and
intricate components.
A long and low body with a "New-Style Classic" image
What sets this new cruiser apart from other designs is its long and low
profile which Yamaha describe as the 'New Style Classic' image. Unlike many
other more traditionally styled cruisers where the rider sits 'in' the bike in
the 'valley' formed by the elevated fuel tank and the high pillion seat and rear
fender, the Midnight Star 950 rider feels more like he or she is sitting 'on'
the bike.
Viewed from the side, the horizontally-cut rear fender, flat pillion seat and
low profile fuel tank on this new cruiser form a much flatter upper surface, in
a similar style to the 'NeoStreamline' design of the Midnight Star 1900.
The long, low and horizontal profile give the machine an individual style,
and accentuate the impression of lightness. This image is strengthened by the
apparent simplicity of the tubular double-cradle frame's design, which features
an abundance of space around the head pipe area. The large-diameter front wheel
and its relatively narrow, low-profile tyre add to the lightweight appearance,
while the muscular looks of the timelessly-styled air-cooled V-twin engine with
its beautifully sculpted fins reinforce the Midnight Star 950's 'New-Style
Classic' looks.
Finally, the bike's distinctive character is underlined by the narrow, flared
front fender, compact headlight assembly, right side air-intake and simple 2-1
exhaust system.
Aramid-type belt drive
Like the larger capacity XVS/XV models, the new Midnight Star 950 is equipped
with a durable and efficient belt drive system. Manufactured using aramid, this
28.6 mm wide belt drive is an extremely effective way of transmitting the high
levels of torque produced by the V-twin engine, and its lightness makes it an
ideal match for a machine with such a long swingarm.
Offering excellent strength as well as good shock absorbing properties and
resistance to corrosion, this low-maintenance belt drive system allows the rider
to enjoy the Midnight Star 950's high-torque and uneven firing pulses to the
full.
Front and rear suspension systems with optimized settings
The front and rear suspension systems are designed to deliver a smooth,
comfortable ride, together with the ability to handle everything from highway
cruising with a passenger through to solo riding on twisty back roads.
Equipped with 41 mm diameter inner tubes and giving 135 mm of travel, the
conventional-type front forks feature a wide pitch of 240 mm, and are offset by
45 mm. Although these heavy-duty forks appear externally identical to the design
featured on the Midnight Star 1300, the settings have been revised to suit the
lighter Midnight Star 950, and the spring rate is reduced by around 27% to
5.4N/mm, which ensures smooth suspension action and high levels of comfort.
Running with a caster of 32°10' and a trail of 145 mm, this high quality
front end ensures good manoeuvrability together with easy steering over a wide
range of riding speeds and surface conditions.
At the rear end is a bottom link-type Monocross system which is similar to
the design used on the Midnight Star 1300, and offers 110 mm of rear wheel
travel. For high levels of rider and passenger comfort the preload-adjustable
rear suspension is designed to offer a soft initial stroke which becomes
progressively firmer as the suspension is compressed further. Together with the
smooth-action front forks, this Monocross rear suspension system ensures that
the Midnight Star 950 delivers high levels of comfort and excellent roadholding
in a variety of situations.
Large-diameter 320 mm front disc brake
For smooth and strong braking performance a large-diameter 320 mm single
front disc brake and 2-piston pin/slide caliper is used. To ensure effective
operation together with accurate feel, close attention has been paid to
optimizing virtually every element of this lightweight braking system's design,
including the lever ratio, lever shape, master cylinder diameter, brake hose
expansion rate and caliper rigidity.
Compared to some heavier cruisers which feature dual-disc front braking
systems, the single large-diameter disc featured on the lighter Midnight Star
950 offers reduced unsprung weight for more responsive front suspension action.
In addition to
the weight savings, the single front disc also emphasizes the lightweight
image of this new cruiser.
This impression of lightness and simplicity is further strengthened by the
298 mm diameter rear disc which is equipped with an underslung caliper.
Cast aluminium upper triple clamp
For an optimum balance of strength and rigidity, the upper triple clamp is
manufactured from cast aluminium, while the lower triple clamp is made from
steel. This combination of steel and aluminium clamps - which is also used on
the Midnight Star 1300 - ensures a good steering feeling together with excellent
feedback.
New-design large-diameter instrument panel
Mounted on the new slimline fuel tank is a new-design large-diameter
instrument panel which is framed by a wide chrome-plated cover which highlights
the bike's classic style.
The panel includes an analogue speedometer, as well as six indicator lights
including fuel and oil level warning lights - while the multi-function LCD
display features an odometer with two trip functions, as well as a fuel trip
meter and clock. There is also a useful instrumentation illumination adjuster
which can be operated from the left side handlebar switch, allowing riders to
increase or decrease brightness of the LCD displays to suit the conditions.
Chassis - Technical Highlights
New-design double-cradle tubular steel frame
1,685 mm long-wheelbase, easy-handling chassis
Low seat height of 675 mm
18-inch front wheel for light feeling steering
130/70-18 front tyre
Newly designed lightweight 8-spoke aluminum wheels front and rear
Front wheel: 18 x MT3.50; rear wheel: 16 x MT4.50.
Classic front and rear steel fenders
Slim 17 litre tapered teardrop fuel tank with wide and flat upper surface
A long and low body with a "New-Style Classic" image
Front forks with 41 mm inner tubes giving mm135 mm wheel travel
Bottom link type Monocross rear suspension giving 110 mm wheel travel
Front and rear suspension systems with optimized settings
Large-diameter 320 mm front disc brake, 298 mm diameter rear disc brake