Yamaha Bolt R-Spec specifications, dimensions and price

Yamaha Bolt R-Spec

Total Motorcycle calls the 3.4-gallon teardrop tank, blacked-out V-twin, 12-spoke wheels, belt drive and steel fenders a hotrod bobber style for Yamaha's sport heritage cruiser.

The reviewer says the low-set seat is a mere 27.2 inches off the pavement so most riders can put both feet firmly on the ground at a stop, that the 41 mm fork is beefy, and that the twin rear shocks with piggyback gas chambers give great comfort and handling while contributing to the low stance.

The engine is a 58-cubic-inch (942cc) air-cooled 60-degree V-twin.

TopSpeed says the R-Spec shines over the older Sportster in details such as ergonomics, a smoother transmission and better rear suspension, and calls the price reasonable with Yamaha's reliability. It lists a five-speed gearbox with a 21 mm wide belt final drive.

What the design gives up

The rear shocks have only 2.8 in of travel and the fork 4.7 in, so the comfort comes from tuning and damping and not from travel. Potholes and expansion joints are felt. At 5.1 in of ground clearance it drags hard in fast corners, and at 542 lb wet it is heavy for a bike with a 3.4 gal tank.

Against the Sportster and Rebel

TopSpeed positions the R-Spec against the Harley Sportster class as a medium-displacement, light American-style cruiser. Honda's Rebel 1100 and Kawasaki's Vulcan S sit close by in price and weight.

Shorter riders are the clearest winners: with the seat this low, the bike's weight sits close to the ground and slow-speed maneuvers feel less top-heavy than on a taller cruiser. Assess the actual seat-to-peg distance and handlebar reach on the Bolt R-Spec.

Low seat height and fork travel alone do not determine knee angle or rider fit. The Bolt R-Spec suits a rider who wants a light, easy, cheap-to-run bobber with a friendly seat for shorter legs.

Bolt R-Spec against the Rebel 1100 and Vulcan S

Honda's Rebel 1100 and Kawasaki's Vulcan S are the nearest cruisers in size and price.