Yamaha XV 1900 Star Eluder [2018-2021]: A Touring Powerhouse Built for the Long Haul

Introduction

The Yamaha XV 1900 Star Eluder isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. Designed for riders who demand both luxury and raw V-twin character, this touring beast bridges the gap between classic American bagger styling and cutting-edge technology. From its thunderous 1,854cc engine to its tech-laden cockpit, the Eluder is built to devour highways while cocooning riders in comfort. Whether you’re chasing horizons or carving backroads, this machine challenges the notion that touring bikes must sacrifice excitement for practicality. Let’s dive into what makes the Eluder a standout in its class.

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Design & Aesthetics: Muscle Meets Modernity

The Star Eluder’s design is a masterclass in balancing aggression with elegance. Its full-coverage fairing, low-slung profile, and chrome accents scream “road dominance,” while the streamlined saddlebags and LED lighting add a touch of sophistication. The 7-inch LCD infotainment screen sits front and center, giving the cockpit a spaceship-like vibe without overwhelming the classic V-twin silhouette.

Yamaha’s attention to practicality shines through details like the 37.3 gallons of storage across its locking saddlebags, tour trunk, and fairing compartments—enough to stash gear for a cross-country trek. Color options like Impact Blue and Liquid Silver emphasize its premium appeal, with metallic finishes that catch sunlight like a predator’s glare.

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Engine & Performance: The Heart of a Titan

At the Eluder’s core lies Yamaha’s air-cooled 1,854cc (113 cu-in) V-twin—a colossus that churns out 126 lb-ft (171 Nm) of torque at just 2,500 RPM. This isn’t an engine; it’s a tidal wave. Throttle response is immediate, yet refined through Yamaha’s YCC-T ride-by-wire system, which offers two ride modes:

• Touring Mode: Butter-smooth power delivery for relaxed cruising.
• Sport Mode: Sharpened throttle response for when the road turns playful.

Paired with a 6-speed transmission and belt final drive, the Eluder pulls like a freight train from standstill yet hums at 2,750 RPM in 6th gear at 75 mph (120 km/h). The dual counterbalancers and semi-dry-sump design keep vibrations in check, while the twin staggered mufflers deliver a bass-heavy exhaust note tuned by Yamaha’s music division—a symphony for gearheads.

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Comfort & Ergonomics: The Couch That Corners

With a 27.6-inch (701 mm) seat height and floorboards that accommodate riders up to 6’5”, the Eluder coddles you like a luxury sedan. The heated seats (rider and passenger) feature 10 heat settings, while the electronically adjustable windscreen (3.5 inches of vertical travel) and lower fairing vents let you fine-tune airflow.

The chassis is a hybrid marvel—a steel main frame paired with an aluminum subframe—that balances agility and stability. Despite its 875 lb (397 kg) wet weight, the Eluder feels surprisingly nimble, thanks to a 31-degree rake and 5.7-inch (145 mm) trail. The suspension setup includes a 46mm telescopic fork up front and a rear shock with remote preload adjustment, soaking up potholes without wallowing in corners.

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Technology & Features: Touring in the Digital Age

Yamaha’s Infotainment Suite is the crown jewel here. The 7-inch touchscreen supports Bluetooth, voice commands, and even dual-zone audio (with the GT package), letting passengers stream podcasts while you navigate via built-in GPS. Key highlights:

• Smart Key System: Keyless ignition, luggage access, and fuel cap operation.
• Unified Braking System (UBS): Automatically balances front/rear brake pressure.
• Traction Control & ABS: Confidence on wet roads or gravel-strewn backroads.
• Sure-Park System: Forward/reverse assist for effortless parking maneuvers.

The GT Package elevates the experience with SiriusXM, CB radio, and a security alarm—features that rival luxury RVs.

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Competition: How the Eluder Stacks Up

The touring segment is fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Eluder holds its ground:

1. Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited

• Pros: Iconic brand cachet, Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine’s mid-range punch.
• Cons: Heavier steering, less tech-forward (no factory reverse assist).
• Eluder Edge: Superior infotainment, lower seat height, and $5K+ price savings when new.

2. Honda Gold Wing

• Pros: Silky-smooth flat-six engine, magic carpet suspension.
• Cons: Lacks V-twin character, more “minivan” than “muscle car.”
• Eluder Edge: Raw torque, aggressive styling, better storage accessibility.

3. Indian Roadmaster

• Pros: Thunder Stroke 116’s brawny sound, premium finishes.
• Cons: Higher center of gravity, dated touchscreen interface.
• Eluder Edge: Lighter feel at low speeds, more intuitive tech layout.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Roaring

The Eluder’s air-cooled engine and belt drive simplify upkeep, but here’s what owners should prioritize:

1. Belt Drive: Inspect every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) for debris. Replacements are rare but ensure alignment to prevent wear.
2. Oil Changes: Semi-dry-sump system requires 4.2 quarts (4 liters) of 10W-40 every 3,700 miles (6,000 km).
3. Brake Fluid: Flush every 2 years—critical for ABS/UBS performance.
4. Tire Pressure: Monitor religiously! The 200/55-R16 rear tire wears quickly if underinflated.

For upgrades, MOTOPARTS.store recommends:
- High-flow air filters to unleash the V-twin’s growl.
- LED auxiliary lights for nocturnal adventures.
- Custom suspension links for riders carrying heavy loads.

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Conclusion: The Tourer That Defies Compromise

The Yamaha Star Eluder isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a rebellion against the idea that touring machines must be bland. It marries the soul-shaking rumble of a pushrod V-twin with tech so advanced, it feels like it’s from the next decade. Whether you’re a solo rider chasing twisties or a two-up traveler craving comfort, the Eluder delivers without apology.

In a world of cookie-cutter baggers, the Eluder dares you to ride differently. And with a little help from MOTOPARTS.store, you can make it truly yours—one mile at a time.

Ready to elevate your Eluder? Explore our curated selection of performance and comfort upgrades at MOTOPARTS.store.

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Specifications sheet

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