Yamaha Virago 535 Cruiser Reviews on Cycle Insider (2)
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I purchased my 1996 Virago from the original owner a few weeks ago. He had kept it garaged and in perfect condition with only 3390 miles on it when I bought it. The longest ride I have gone on so far is about 60 miles. I am getting about 48 mpg. It handles like a dream and has plenty of power. It is a little light for any serious rides on the freeway, but it will cruise at 75 mph without any problem. I am loving it!

Although I've been a dirt rider for over 30 years, I'd never owned a street bike until I came across a brand new, left-over 1996 model at a local dealer 3 years ago. What a gas! Enough power for most of the back roads, light, comfortable, and absolutely bullet-proof. Only problems I've noticed are: 1. the skinny front tire doesn't like the rain grooves on Oregon freeways, but since I avoid those whenever possible (in favor of rural two lane stuff) that's fine by me; and 2. the small gas tank reaches reserve too quickly (at about 120 miles). Looking to move to a larger bike now that I have some street time behind me, but I'll be keeping this little gem as a back-up and a spare for my bike-less friends to learn on.