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Cruisers

2018Yamaha XV950 Racer

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The 2018 Yamaha XV950 Racer is a lightweight cruiser that delivers classic styling with modern performance, ideal for riders seeking nimble handling and retro appeal. Known for its manageable 251 kg weight and compact dimensions, it excels in city riding and everyday commuting. The electric-start air-cooled engine and responsive chassis make it a versatile choice for experienced riders who value character over raw power.

Capacity
942.0 ccm
Engine
V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox
5-speed
Wet weight
251.0 kg
Seat height
765 mm
Power
51.4 HP (37.5 kW) @ 5500 RPM

What’s new for the 2018 Yamaha XV950 Racer

vs the 2017
Spec20172018
Seat height 690 mm (27.2 inches) 765 mm (30.1 inches)
Rear suspension Swingarm. Piggyback-style gas shocks. Swingarm
Other years 2015 2016 2017 2018

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 42Agility 55Comfort 48Off-road 10Touring 30Road manners 65
Off-road & trail10%
Cornering45%
City riding65%
Daily riding55%
Touring30%
Two-up20%
Track15%
Best for
Built for relaxed cruising, boulevard riding, and cafe-racer styling rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Built for
A laid-back, style-focused V-twin cruiser with a punchy midrange torque feel and classic bobber-inspired aesthetics.
Not ideal for
Not a good fit for riders seeking aggressive cornering performance, off-road capability, or serious two-up touring comfort.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 765mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 Yamaha XV950 Racer, with a cramped knee angle of around 85 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
942.0 ccm
Power
51.4 HP (37.5 kW) @ 5500 RPM
CO2 Emissions
116 CO2 g/km
Torque
79.5 Nm (8.1 kgf-m) @ 3000 RPM
Engine type
V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption
5.00 litres/100 km (20.0 km/l)
Power/weight ratio
0.2048 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke
85.0 x 83.0 mm
Compression
9.0:1
Cooling system
Air
Fuel system
Injection
Starting
Electric
Ignition
TCI
Valves per cylinder
4
Lubrication system
Wet sump
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Belt
Clutch
Wet, Multiple Disc
Dimensions & weight
Wheelbase
1570 mm
Overall length
2295 mm
Overall width
830 mm
Overall height
1160 mm
Seat height
765 mm
Wet weight
251.0 kg
Fuel capacity
12.00 litres
Ground clearance
130 mm
Oil capacity
4.30 litres
Reserve fuel capacity
4.00 litres
Dry weight
Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
Frame
Double cradle
Front suspension
Telescopic forks, 41 mm
Rear suspension
Swingarm
Front wheel travel
135 mm
Rear wheel travel
110 mm
Rake (fork angle)
29.0°
Trail
130 mm
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Single disc. Wave disc. ABS.
Front brakes diameter
298 mm
Rear brakes
Single disc. Wave disc. ABS.
Rear brakes diameter
298 mm
ABS
Yes
Front tyre
100/90-19
Rear tyre
150/80-16
Other
Color options
Yellow, matte grey

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 2015201620172018
Capacity 942 cc 942 cc 942 cc 942 cc
Seat height 690 mm 690 mm 690 mm 765 mm
Fuel capacity 12 L 12 L 12 L 12 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2018 Yamaha XV950 Racer is a stunning motorcycle that combines classic retro styling with modern performance and handling. The 942cc air-cooled V-twin engine delivers smooth power and torque, making it a joy to ride on both city streets and the open road. The slim, cafe racer-inspired design is complemented by high-quality components such as adjustable rear suspension, wave-style brake discs, and a sleek aluminum tank. With its low seat height and comfortable riding position, the XV950 Racer is ideal for both experienced riders and those looking to step up to a more powerful bike.

In addition to its stylish looks, the Yamaha XV950 Racer offers impressive performance and handling. The fuel-injected V-twin engine delivers plenty of power and torque, while the lightweight, compact chassis provides excellent agility and responsiveness. The XV950 Racer also benefits from modern features such as ABS brakes, a slipper clutch, and LED lighting. With its combination of classic style and modern technology, this motorcycle offers a compelling option for riders who want a unique, retro-inspired bike with contemporary performance and reliability.

Common questions

What is the engine size of the Yamaha XV950 Racer?

The 2018 Yamaha XV950 Racer has a Capacity of 942.0 ccm (57.48 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Yamaha XV950 Racer have?

The 2018 Yamaha XV950 Racer has a Power of 51.4 HP (37.5 kW) @ 5500 RPM.

How many gears does the Yamaha XV950 Racer have?

The 2018 Yamaha XV950 Racer has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

What is the torque of the Yamaha XV950 Racer?

The 2018 Yamaha XV950 Racer has a Torque of 79.5 Nm (8.1 kgf-m or 58.6 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM.

How much does the Yamaha XV950 Racer weigh?

The 2018 Yamaha XV950 Racer has a Wet weight of 251.0 kg (553.4 pounds).

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