In motorcycle marvels, the spotlight shines bright on the 2014 Yamaha Bolt. This masterpiece, deeply rooted in Japanese craftsmanship, combines tradition with cutting-edge design. With its distinctive aesthetics and unparalleled performance, the Bolt isn’t just about traversing roads and making an indelible mark on them. In this 2014 Yamaha Bolt Review, we’ll journey through its various facets, understanding what sets this machine apart in a crowded market.
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Detailed 2014 Yamaha Bolt Review
A Modern Take on Classics
Drawing inspiration from the iconic Japanese custom trend, the 2014 Yamaha Bolt takes a step back to embrace simplicity. Merging modern aesthetics with the charm of the sporty, lightweight, and budget-friendly Virago 535, it emerges as a cruiser stripped of unnecessary frills. The design emphasizes compactness, featuring a tight 1,570mm wheelbase, tipping the scales at a modest 247 kg. It’s not about boasting the biggest engine but prioritizing agile and nimble handling.
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Retro Elegance at an Affordable Price
The 2014 Yamaha Bolt showcases understated style. It incorporates a low-rise handlebar, sleek fuel tank, and strategically positioned mid-mounted footpegs. This machine is aiming to rival the Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883. Conceived by American designers for an American audience, it’s a visual treat, especially for those with a soft spot for retro cruisers.
Its sophisticated lines, meticulous cooling fin design, and the play of brushed aluminum against black chrome accents make the 2014 Yamaha Bolt seem like a more expensive investment than it is.
- Price and Variants: The basic model is pegged at $8,999, with the R-Spec asking for an additional $200. Opting for the R-Spec gifts riders with a plush buckskin/suede seat, distinct badges, exclusive color themes, and premium shock absorbers complete with a remote reservoir.
Power Under the Hood
The 2014 Yamaha Bolt is fueled by a borrowed powertrain—a robust air-cooled, fuel-injected, 942cc V-twin engine from the V-Star 950 lineage. This engine is not just about numbers; with 54 hp and 59.3 lb-ft of torque, its character is truly delightful. Versatility is its strength, delivering commendable power from as low as 1,500 rpm. It’s quite the performer in mid to high-rev ranges.
The power is seamlessly transferred through a finely tuned transmission. This is paired with a smooth-operating clutch lever and shifter that collaborates with the rear wheel through a hassle-free, noiseless belt final drive.
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Built for the Ride
The foundational aspect of the 2014 Yamaha Bolt is its brand-new compact frame, crafted to keep agility and user-friendly experience in focus. It promises a low center of gravity, a convenient seat height of 690 mm, and a riding stance that feels just right. Although its erect position and limited wind protection might not be ideal for long journeys, it shines when navigating twisty terrains. It can tackle curves efficiently thanks to impressive ground clearance and commendable braking prowess (considering cruiser benchmarks).
While the base model’s suspension might falter on bumpy rides, the R-Spec variant offers significantly better ride quality. The extra $200 is worth it, especially for those familiar with uneven roads.
Strengths:
- Stunning design
- User-friendly nature
- Sprightly performance
- Enhanced suspension in R-Spec
Weaknesses:
- The base model falls a tad short
- The airbox layout impacts the right knee position.
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Concluding Thoughts on the 2014 Yamaha Bolt Review
In the culmination of our 2014 Yamaha Bolt Review, it’s evident that the 2014 Yamaha Bolt stands as the pinnacle of aesthetic charm, balance, and seamless performance. Tailored for those riders who value elegance, a poised demeanor, and the joy of relishing picturesque vistas, the added allure of the R-Spec model, with its enhanced comfort for a mere incremental cost, makes it a compelling choice for enthusiasts.