Among the two most newsworthy items from the AIMExpo in Orlando on October 16 was Yamaha Motor 's announcement of a second Star Bolt model called the C-Spec.
C as in “café.” Oh, yeah.
On a basic Star Bolt platform, Yamaha has changed the riding position by moving the footpegs back and up (by 5.9 and 1.3 inches, respectively), fitting low clip-on bars, moving the single instrument cluster to the top of the triple clamp, and fitting a removable passenger-seat cowling. Suspension travel increases slightly (9mm up front, 6mm at the rear) for a sportier riding experience than the cruiser-ish Bolt. The visual changes are compelling; the lithe Bolt looks a hundred times racier in C-Spec.
Otherwise, the 950cc, air-cooled V-twin and chassis remain unchanged. Curb weight is 542 pounds, claimed. Retail price is $8,690, with availability in January.