Yamaha targets Harley with a budget-priced, old-school cruiser motorcycle

As Daytona Bike Week continues, Star Motorcycles introduced a new, stripped-down cruiser dubbed Bolt. Offered in basic and better-trimmed R-Spec form, the Bolt has an old-school appearance at a relatively budget price.

With the Bolt, the Yamaha brand is moving deeper into American cruiser territory, and it is doing so at "metric" pricing. For some riders, this may offer an attainable alternative to Harley-Davidson models. (Think Sportster or Street Bob.) For others, it can provide a fresh option for newer riders looking for an alternative to the small-displacement sport bikes and chrome-plated, midsized import cruisers. (See the Harley-Davidson Breakout also unveiled in Daytona.)

The Bolt uses a new frame, fitted with a fuel-injected, air-cooled 950cc engine. As the photos show, the Bolt is devoid of chrome, relying instead on simple paint and metal surfaces. The body is a slim design, and overall weight is a modest 540 lbs., notably 73 lbs. lighter than the company's V Star 950 that uses a similar engine. The Bolt has just a 3.2 gallon gas tank, compared to 4.5 gallons for the V Star 950. The seat is low at 27.2 inches.

Curious concessions to modernity, the Bolt uses a digital speedometer and an LED taillamp. Disc brakes are in place front and rear, but ABS is not offered—a disappointment for any new motorcycle design, more especially one that may attract less-experienced riders.