FIRST LOOK: 2017 Yamaha Star Bolt and Bolt R-Spec

Yamaha has been entertaining metric cruiser- and bobber-lovers alike for a couple years now, with three iterations of the Bolt: R-Spec, C-Spec, and the standard Bolt. All three bikes deliver a raucous V-twin rumble, peppy torque, and decent handling. For 2017, it appears Yamaha is setting the C-Spec aside, perhaps in favor of the new scrambler-inspired SCR950 (click here to see the 2017 SCR950 First Look Video). Meanwhile, both Bolt and Bolt-R get a few minor refreshes for the upcoming model year.

The Bolt keeps its classic bobber look, while Yamaha claims the Bolt R-spec will be the "sportier" version. With that said, both bikes retain their 942cc 60-degree V-twin engine, sharing everything from frame, suspension, wheelbase, brakes, seat height, rake and trail; all unchanged from the previous year. Each bike gets a new flangeless fuel tank for 2017, cleaning up the transition edge from tank to frame. Additionally, the fuel capacity of both bikes gets a bump up by 0.32 gallons, increasing range to an estimated 173 miles. To further clean up the aesthetic of both bikes, the wiring has been tucked more neatly away with wire guides.

The small details that set the Bolt brethren apart are spoked wheels on the standard Bolt, further tapping into its classic aesthetic. Like its previous gen predecessor, the Bolt is available in Raven Black for $7,999. While that’s the only color option for 2017, the tank graphics have been updated as well. The R-Spec gets a little more variety in the color department, available in Crimson Red and Silver Shadow for $8,399, as well as a its own updated graphic helping differentiate it from the Bolt.