Star Motorcycles, a subsidiary of Yamaha, recently unveiled the Bolt and Bolt R-Spec models during Daytona Bike Week.

Yamaha keeps prices of the Bolt in check (MSRPs of $7,990 for the standard Bolt and $8,290 for the R-Spec) by utilizing the air-cooled, 942 cc fuel-injected V-Twin already used in the V Star 950. The 60-degree engine mounts in an all-new, double-cradle steel frame with a short wheelbase of only 61.8 inches long, a low seat at 27 inches from the ground in a slim, uncluttered shape. Suspension is handled by a conventional 41-millimeter fork with 4.7 inches of travel and a pair of rear shocks that offer 2.8 inches of cushion. Twelve-spoke cast aluminum wheels are fitted with bias-ply tires in sizes 100/90-19 front and 150/80-16 rear.

The 3.2-gallon teardrop tank has subtle badges, the front and bobbed rear fenders are made of steel, and contemporary touches include an LED taillight in a classically styled housing and an LCD speedometer beneath a smoked lens. The two-into-one exhaust features black headers, but with heat shields and muffler done in contrasting aluminum. Gold-anodized shocks with piggyback remote reservoirs distinguish the R-Spec model, which also has an upgraded saddle with contrast stitching. The standard Bolt is available in Raven or Pearl White, whereas the R-Spec comes in Matte Gray or Camo Green.

"We’ve seen the cruiser market transition through the chopper trend to back-to-basics bikes that prove less is more," said Derek Brooks, product manager. "The focus is now more on the motorcycle itself and less on chrome and flashy paint. This is a solid trend, and I think that the Bolt is going to be very appealing to all types of riders.”