Just got this months Motor Cyclist mag. Big write up on the Yamaha Bolt. They say they didn't set out to copy the Sportster but to make a 2013 version of the XS650. I'm not sure if that is what happened but it sure is a pretty bike!!
-
Enjoy XS650.com? Consider making a donation to help support the site.
XS650.com receives a small share of sales from some links on this page, but direct donations have a much greater impact on keeping this site going.
itrguy
XS650 Addict
saw a video of the Bolt racing a sporty.... I dig the Bolt!!
Who said that?
JR Roxx
XS650 Addict
The Bolt is selling faster the the dealers in upstate NY can get them in.. Nice price too at around 7 grand.
It's a v-twin. It looks nothing lake an XS650. I think they did a nice job of copying the recent Sportsters. It is just one more Harley clone in my opinion.
neanderthal
neanderthal
oh yeah i thought it was an xs650...its not? 
JR Roxx
XS650 Addict
No.. It's the same motor as the Vstar 950
neanderthal
neanderthal
um....{i know see the laughing face? i know its not an xs it looks nothing like it}
Tron
Bearded Sheep Whisperer
Its practically identical to the 883 iron. Even the wheels are the same..
Uggh.
Uggh.
I am Carbon
shade tree mechanic
JR Roxx
XS650 Addict
In the sportys defense a 2001 is carburated while the Bolt's injected LOL
randomtone
XS650 Enthusiast
I'm a grapher designer and worked on the launch for parts and accessories. I really like the concept of the bike. There was alot of talk of "back to basics" and beeing influnced by the garage built bobbers ect. At least it looks to be a good move away from the silly Orange county chopper thing, for instance they offer brass accessories instead of chrome. And I think there is a good market for this bike and it will do well.
