The Yamaha XV700 and XV920, iconic motorcycles from Yamaha's venerable V-twin range, share a distinctive feature: their spoke wheels. This article explores the xv700 spoke wheel and its comparison with that of the xv920, delving into design, performance, and maintenance.
Spoke wheels, with their classic appeal and numerous benefits, have long been a staple in Yamaha's V-twin segment. They not only evoke a sense of timeless style but also offer superior handling and durability.
XV700 Spoke Wheel: Design and Performance
The xv700, a 1980s staple, sports a 36-spoke wheel, a design that was both robust and aesthetically pleasing. The wheel, measuring 21 inches in diameter, is laced to a high-quality cast aluminum rim.
The 36-spoke design, while providing ample strength, also ensures optimal flex, which translates to excellent handling and traction. This design is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy spirited riding or occasional off-road adventures.
XV700 Speedsport Variant
The XV700 Speedsport, a sport-touring variant, came with a larger, 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel. This change, while maintaining the classic spoke design, further enhanced handling and maneuverability.
With an unsprung weight closer to that of sports bikes, the Speedsport variant offered exceptionally responsive steering and braking.
XV700 Wheel Maintenance
Maintaining the xv700 spoke wheel involves regular checks for loose spokes and rim damage. Tightening spokes to the correct torque ensures wheel trueing and longevity. Yamaha recommends checking and re-torquing spokes every 500 miles.
Periodic rim cleaning and inspection for signs of warping or cracks also play a crucial role in maintaining wheel health. Regular lubrication of the�hub bearings and adjusting the brake calipers help keep the braking system in top condition.
XV920 Spoke Wheel: Evolution and Performance
The xv920, introduced in the 90s, built upon the xv700's spoke wheel legacy. Its 32-spoke design, while maintaining strength, offered improved performance and aesthetics.
The evolutionary design features a lighter, more rigid rim, which contributes to improved handling and responsiveness. The 17-inch front and 16-inch rear wheel sizes further enhance the xv920's agility.
XV920 V-Max Variant
The XV920 V-Max, a high-performance variant, took the spoke wheel design to new heights. Its massive, 20-inch rear wheel, while maintaining the classic spoke design, evoked pure muscle and power.
The larger wheel not only added to the V-Max's iconic stance but also enhanced its straight-line stability and traction, ideal for the bike's burly V-twin engine.
XV920 Wheel Maintenance
Maintaining the xv920 spoke wheel largely follows the xv700's recommendations. Regular spoke checks, rim maintenance, and brake system care ensure optimal performance.
One additional aspect to consider, given the xv920's lower profile tires, is to inflate them to the correct pressure to maintain optimal handling and tire life.
In the world of classic and performance motorcycles, the xv700 and xv920's spoke wheels stand as timeless examples of form meeting function. From the xv700's robust 36-spoke design to the xv920's evolutionary 32-spoke wheel, Yamaha has continued to refine and innovate, forever etching the spoke wheel's classic silhouette in motorcycle history. Now, whether you're a seasoned rider or a restoration enthusiast, you can appreciate the art, science, and heritage behind these iconic wheels.