2008 Yamaha Raider Cruiser reviews

I have a 2008 Raider I purchased from a golf pro 2 years ago. This is an incredible bike that stole my interest. I was shopping for a muscle cruiser, I had just test drove a Harley Breakout and was going to suzuki dealer for M109 when I saw this red bike that look similar to breakout. I ended up test driving it. When I got back, grin on my face would not go away. Why haven't I seen or heard about this bike before.Amount of tourque this bike has nearly scared me at first. then as I drove it, I knew I had to have it. never made it to suzuki test drive. I ride this bike whenever temps are over 50 degrees. I am not a speed demon but, I love the way this bike gets me up to speed in a blink of an eye.I wish they had designed a tachometer on this bike. even though this is a cruiser and you don't really need a tach, i would have loved seeing that needle buried so fast in every gear. I have read a few reviews and some have said this bike is therapuetic. I agree 100 percent. When I have stress, a 15 minute ride does the trick for me. My riding group is around 8 bikes, (harleys, indians and triumphs) every time people come around to check out our bikes, they always end up asking me questions about the bike. some even ask if they could test drive. i have owned many bikes in my 56 years and 40 years of riding, this bike will always have special place in my heart. Show less

I rented a Raider a few years ago and rode six hours straight from the Finger Lakes Region of New York to my home in Delaware. The only stops I made were for fuel. I have to say I was surprised how comfortable it was. The first thing you'll notice is the torque. If you have a passenger you'd better have a back rest for them or they'll fly off once you hit second gear. On Route 15 in PA I got 50 mpg. with straight highway driving at 75 mph. I found a great deal on an '08 Raider a few weeks ago. It had 12K miles with Cobra pipes, passenger back rest and luggage rack. I'm looking forward to many years of great rides with good friends. Ride safe/Semper Fi. Show less

The Raider S is by far, the best bike I have ever ridden. It has great power and comfort! Show less

I loved the look of the '08 Raider S (Candy Red) and just had to have one. I was a bit concerned about the handling of the raked bike, but it handles very well. Engine has plenty of power (even riding two-up). I have taken the bike on 5 trips of more than 1300 miles and have had a great time. Just got back from a 2400 mile trip to Utah. The only problem I have had with the bike is some valvetrain noise (planning to take to to the dealership next week for a look/see). Star really hit a homerun with this machine! Show less

I've owned a Honda Aero, a Kawasaki Nomad, a Harley V-Rod and a Yamaha Raider. I like them all but the Raider stays on top. It's very fast just like my V-Rod and comfortable. I like it very much. I upgraded the rear tire to 240/40-18, it fits like a glove. I like it...it's way better than the stock 210. No issues at all in the corners. Easy to maintain. I thought it's hard to change oil on this bike but with proper tools, it's not that hard at all. There are 3 drain bolts on this bike. The same thing with Transfer case, Filling bolt, oil level bolt, and drain bolt. I would recommend it to all who are looking and dreamin' for a bigger bike like this Raider. 113 cubic inches of raw attitude. GO GET YOURS... Show less

Now that I have put 6000 miles on it, I thought I'd share some more. This is my sixth bike and it would be hard to beat this one. The motorcycle is very well balanced, fun to ride and looks great. I have not had any trouble with the motorcycle so far. Two oil changes (600 mi, 4000 mi, with tune ups) and a rear tire replacement is all I have done so far. Show less

Well I have had this bike for a while now and I love it. It's not as fast as the 109r but it handles better and is a lot more comfortble. I love the feel. It's a big heavy cruixer at a good price and still handles great 2 up. If you can't tell, I like it! It's better and cheaper than the rocker! Show less

I've been riding since I was in my teens many years ago (55 now) and I have never ridden a better bike for style, comfort or power. It handles better than I ever expected. My wife rides with me and loves it. This is an absolute plus guys. I also enjoy stopping to help those bikers, who spent A LOT more, when they rattle apart on the side of the road. "Metric rules,as my son says. Show less

This is the best bike I have ever purchased, and I have had more than my share over the years (57). The price was low compared to other chopper-inspired bikes. It rides and looks like you paid far more. The Star people really put some nice touches on this bike. Other bike owners always compliment me about this bike when we ride together. This bike makes me feel young again. It is very cool. I'm glad they didn't change anything for the 2009 model. That makes my 2008 Raider S even more of a value. I wouldn't trade this bike for anything. Be safe out there and watch out for those 4-wheeled things. May your rubber be down and a wind at your back. Show less

This bike is so cool. It looks great, performs great, feels great and rides great. We went on a 900 mile trip and never really got tired. My wife road with me and never said a word about being uncomfortable. She is in love with this bike; more than myself. It really is a lil' piece of heaven. I promise if you buy it you won't regret it. It's the top dog. Everyone that likes the bike comes over to look at it. I have gotten a thousand compliments on the bike. Show less