Why I Love the Yamaha Virago 

Original owner of a 1993 XV1100. Still riding it with 190,000 Kilometers (118,000 miles) and only a broken clutch cable in 25 years. The Virago is like the Energy Bunny. It keeps going and going and going...

"very comfortable riding position" my old bones are starting to appreciate that kind of language.

I just rocked a 1999 XV1100 up to 46,000 miles before I sold it. It still ran great. Awesome bikes. It will out run a 1200 Sportster by a clean 1/2 to 3/4 second in a 1/4 mile. It's only 1063cc, but it spins 1.000 rpm faster, it's 40 lbs lighter, and it handles much better than "the other leading brand". Maintenance free shaft drive, dual front discs, 4 way hazard flashers, center stand, handlebar mounted choke & reserve. They were great bikes. The basic power plant still lives on in the VStar line, but like all modern bikes, they made 'em heavier and slower. These things flew. Grab one if you can.

I had one of these in the 80s-90s. I rode it all over the USA and Canada and never had any major issues. This video is really taking me back! Thanks for the vid.

I had a 1985 Virago 700. I recognized the handlebars as soon as you started recording it. I loved that bike. Mine was candy apple red with straight pipes which were very loud. Everyone thought it was a Harley, except for Harley dudes. Thanks for the memories that came flooding back.

I have 3 of them. Single Carb converted, one Bobber, one Original, one Chopper. These beasts are awesome

I have a 99’ virago 1100 and I love it. I bought it as my first bike to learn on and I haven’t had any issues with it so far. Gets up to highway speed with no issue, doesn’t take too long either. I’m looking into getting a heritage soft tail now but I plan on keeping the virago until it’s time comes to an end

In 1981 I was in the US Navy and reenlisted. I decided to take some of my bonus money and buy a new motorcycle. I decided on the 1981 Virago 750.; It was my daily driver for 8 years. I drove that bike from Va. Beach to Niagara Falls, NY several times. The HD guys used to bust my balls calling it a japanese Harley. I responded by saying at least I could ride mine on the weekend. I got transfered to Spain in 1989. I hated to sell it. No choice. I bought a new 2001 650 Vstar because of how similar they were. Love those Stars.

I owned a '96 Virago back in '97. Very, very satisfying and fun bike to ride. Mechanically bullet proof, wish I still had it.

Been a Kawsaki guy for over 40 years. Decided to try something different. In 2016 I bought a 97 virago. Got a custom paint job on the tank, and bought chrome fenders for off ebay. ( virago's in the 80's had chrome fenders). Anyway bike looks great and runs awesome. And like the video, it is the first bike where I don't need to choke it to start it cold.

Virago 750 cc are the best I'm on my second one had an 1100 love the feel of it,get compliments almost every time I'm parked.I only 5 feet tall 130lbs have no problem controlling this ride

I toured the states for 3 years on a 920 and then a 1000 in the 80s. I Loved them both. Only downside was the engine didn't like to cruise over 65. I always wanted to try the 1300. The 1000 really accelerated off the line and the balance was awesome. No underframe. the front forks and the saddle just bolt straight to the engine. Ton's of chrome and sexy shape.

My first street bike was a Virago 535. I loved it, and I rode it everywhere, because it was all I had, for a time. I knew it was the bike that I was getting, when I walked into the shop. I've had other bikes, since, but I would love to get it and the others going again, someday. You must have been popular, having a bike in high school.

My former father in law had the twin of this bike. He bought it new in 97 when she and i were still just dating. He loved it. We went on a few rides and it seemed to run great. I can't recall ever trying it. I always had a soft spot for Yamaha. My first bike, which i still had back then, was a 1980 XS650 straight twin, and i loved it. It even had the famous front wheel flutter at idle that Triumphs were known for. Good times. My cuutent bike (third in lifetime) is a 1999 Shadow 1100. Good solid bike, but i'm going to be looking for a newer metric cruiser soon- EFI is a must! Love your videos, they have been helpful. Thank you.

I currently own 2 Viragos, an '86 XV700 and a '98 XV1100. The XV700 of which I'm the 2nd owner, have owned 20 years now and the XV1100 I have owned for 10 years. A month after I bought the XV1100, I rode it from San Diego to Austin and back by way of the Grand Canyon for a total of about 2,800 miles. My XV700, within a year of buying it, I rode from the Central coast of California, with the sound of the waves laping on the beach behind me, to Chicago and back, for a total of about 5,000 miles in about 5 days of riding (2 days there, and 3 days back) with 5 days between. I can't imagine making either trip on any other bike!! I've owned several bikes over the years and rode many more, different brands and models, Crusers, Crotch Rockets, Enduros and Motocross bikes, and The Viragos are by far the most comfortable and solid performers with just the twist of a wrist, and a smooth predictable low center-of-gravity roll into and out of each and every turn, that I have ever ridden. I guess that's why I've own them both so long! Keep the Rubber-Side down!

My first bike was a 1982 Yamaha Virago 750. Now I got a 1992 of the same bike, I love them.

What a rough job riding bikes all day. I'll pray for you lol.

Just bought a 98 virago today! This review inspired me, God bless SRK

Those bikes were also the first cruisers to have self canceling turn signals... even back when the 1100 came out (back in 1986)... one of the best handling cruisers ever...

Thanks for the positive comments and your stand for GOD!! I had a virago once also and loved it..keep it vertical except in the curves 😉

Owned 2 Viragos through the years, both versions, loved them both!

I bought my 1996 Virago 1100 brand new in 1998 when I was a few months shy of my 17th birthday! Bless my Dad, he had enough faith in me to give me a loan for almost the full amount and i paid him back by the time i finished College. I rode that bike for 12 years and then passed it on to my Wife who rode it for 3 years and then passed it on to my Father who rode it for another 2 years! Even though I have enjoyed the bikes I've owned since it there is a part of me who will ALWAYS miss that bike. 98,000km and the only repair was a fluke worn out swingarm bearing!

I bought a 750 Virago in 1981. It was new to the market. I had it for 8 years. I bought my Star Classic because of my love for the Virago.

My first bike was a tao tao zummer I got into moter cycles after getting it . it was slow but leaning around corners was so fun it created a lifetime of joy riding

I have a 1986 xv1100, still starts right up immediately. In the winter 2 minutes blowing a hair dryer on the engine and it will start right up. The engine is a monster. I weigh near 300 and it feels like it could pull a tank. The bike has always been just a beater, I got it for $1000 11 years ago, and it has issues - turn signals are broken off, side covers long gone, odometer and speedometer broken for probably 50k miles or more, but it is extremely reliable. Tires, brake and clutch cable, oil changes, just routine stuff...

Just bought an '85 virago that was bobbed. I love the thing it's sick!!!

I just got a virago 535 from my dad and I love it. It puts a smile on my face everytime I ride it.

I'm 21 and own a 1990 yamaha virago XV750 that I've modded slightly but it's stock for the most part and I absolutely love it and constantly have people asking me what kind of harley it is which goes to show they aren't really bike people but the virago I own has faded to a similar colur to a Harley orange colour so I can't blame them. Anyway the virago is comfortable for long rides but absolutely hauls ass when you open up the throttle and is absolutely bulletproof even after 30 years and I have yet to lose any impromptu race from a car on the street including a brand new 2020 corvette stingray 3 days ago.

Good gracious shes a real peach. I was doing some work for an older lady and yes in the garage was a 1984 xv 1000 Virago. Dusty and dirty but under all that dust was a machine with 19000 miles on it. Stole it for 700 bucks. Today she comes home!!! 00

at my 33 i bought Virago XV750 its amazing Ride rides perfect. and looks amazing

I bought a 1981 Virago 750 in 1981. It was my first street bike. I lived Va. Beach and drove to Buffalo NY 4 times round trip. It was an incredible bike. I had it for 8 years. I never got tired of driving it. If the Navy hadn't transferred me to Spain I wouldn't have sold it. They came out with the 1100 the next year. I currently have a Vstar 650 and it was the Virago that made me decide to buy the Vstar. Great bikes. You make great videos Sean. Thanks.

I have 65,000 km on my 97 XV1100S. Runs great, change the oil/filter, check valve clearances every 15k. Mite just now have to replace the starter clutch. I'd almost say, bullet proof. Thank God for the safe rides! God bless!

I bought a 99 dirt cheap from my neighbor, he had let it sit for 2 years and the carbs had to be rebuilt, 80 bucks a new tank of fuel and I'm cruising the foothills along the front range northwest of Denver. Looks and runs like new. Good purchase. I'm gonna keep it.

I'm getting a steal on a 1983 Virago 500... only $500. Can't wait to take it home for my first bike :)

I have the same bike, down here in NZ, always had sports-bikes till now, but I am really enjoying it (I have toned-down the glittery-stuff a bit tho) next move is some big flat-slides, couldnt find any 40mm dellorto pumpers--they would really make a beast out of it

this bike is usually used as the training bike to obtain a riding license in my country. you will fall in love immediately it has its own charm.you will want to own it.

I only ever buy used machinery that has been loved. It's easy to spot and I know it will continue to be a pleasure to own. Excellent video.

Just got my first bike last week, it’s a 1996 Yamaha Virago XV750, seat is like a Cadillac and love the turndown bars

The virago 750 was my first bike. I think the 1100 if I remember correctly was the last one I rode. My next bike most likely going to be the Yamaha renegade 1900.

I bought the 750 last year. Same year, same paint scheme, even the same bag's & windshield. Changing the oil filter is a pain, but a great bike otherwise.

Bar none - My top favorite bike channel. Period!

love this video. I have a 1992 1100 virago that just hit 23,000 miles. After a valve adjustment and an after market replacement fuel pump (I wont pay $350 for a Yamaha pump) she has been running fine!!!!

I have a 1982 1100cc beautiful ! I don't ride it much anymore. Runs fantastic. But he needs a good home.

My first bike is a 1985 Yamaha Virago 700, I love it so far,

Simply Nice :) Nice bike, weather, ride, sound and review! I like your reviews in general - they are done with such passion and love for riding and bikes. As to the no-choke start - probably idle mixture screw is set rich. Its not a problem, its actulay good for this engine - it will run butter smooth in the low range. Fuel economy - not to worry. It will not suffer unless you do all your riding almost on idle. Keep the great job, and stay safe! :)

You are a true talent, and you are appreciated Shaun. Thanks for the knowledge and entertainment.

Love your channel Mssr, even from up here in Nova Scotia, Canada. My first bike was an '85 Virago 750, straight off the showroom floor in '87 with 5 kms on it...$4200CDN. That thing elated me daily for yrs, never a problem. Still see it around from time to time & wish I still had it, but recently sold my '05 Concours & I'm looking at several mint Virago 1100's up here. Peeps sure do luv their Virago's! Wish you'd done a walkaround...was really looking forward to seeing those pipes & the whole rig... Tkx very much for your passion & your channel. I'd certainly never just ride past your neck of the woods without stopping in person. Yayyy SRK...!!

I bought the identical one and it hasn't let me down yet ill keep it classic and wont chop it

I’ve got a XV500 that needs some tlc, I’ve done what I can out of pocket at a slinky place in the middle of the woods. I could use some advice on how to fix it without going to a backwater shop as mentioned.

I knew it would sell FAST when I saw it on your website for just 2k.

2K? excellent ad for SRK,Sean! i always had a sneaking admiration for the Virago

I owned a 1100 virago ,white and black from 1997 to 2007 ,lovely bike ,shaft drive ,i now own a 1600 thunderbird ,mick uk ,

Just picked mine up titled and everything for $100 it only need new spark plugs and carb cleaned it was nothing but a black hard crud cleaned it out which took 2-3 hrs to take out and install (very first street bike every worked on) and it runs great

My virago has valve tick at 33k miles. Previous owners didn't take care of it unfortunately but it was only $900

I was given a 1995 Yamaha Virago 535vx that sat for 10years! I cleaned out the tanks, bled the front brake and installed new tires, Oh and of course a new battery.. Not so much as touched the carburetors and mine fires up on the first bump when its ice cold with no choke just like this! What an amazing bike!! I have a few hundred miles on it already

Awesome video man! 🤟🏽🔥

Thinking about getting a 750 version

I like the way these looked and the amount of torque from the 1100, but it was only good up to about 65 mph for my carpal tunnel, and the bike really didn't seem to like to go much faster anyway. Now my virago 920 that was another story: plenty of power vibration was okay, handling was better with the mono shock rear end, etc. It just wasn't as pretty as the newer models. And another bike that wasn't as pretty but in the end is much better is the first gen VN 750. And another bike that's arguably even prettier than the virago was the intruder 800 and 1400. Although the 800 was quicker and handled great. I've owned or still own all the above.

I have a ‘95 xv750 and I love it. It’s my first bike. I just rode my friend’s 2007 Harley and wow.. makes Yamaha feel tight like a ....

Just grabbed one of these it’s a 1100 96 with only 5500 miles on it and it’s my first bike 1100 is a bit big to learn on I’m hearing I’m a bigger guy but it’s so smooth!!

i really like that style bars. Never could figure out why they bothered with a reserve tank switch. Why not let both tanks act as one?? Just run it off the reserve fed by the main.

Nice ride...i used to have a 1973 torque induction 250rd...sadly my brother crashed and totaled...everyone loves the classic looks....take care.

Man, Viragos aren't my bag, but this particular bike is nice! I would happily ride it!

Hi from Belarus! I have the same motorcycle (XV750). It's great! What is the windscreen on your Virago (brand/model)? Thank you! :)

I love you guy !!!! love the attitude !!! I am sixty and owned many bikes ( still not very experienced........pls nobody do what i have done!!! ) finally received my bike endorsement almost two years ago. I wish i had the guts to ride a bigger bike but no. My second bike i owed was a 750 Virago and my tenth was a 1100 Virago . Now i tried many types of bikes but by far the most balanced and the most comfortable ant at easy ( remember i am always a rookie ) to ride has been the Virago. 2004 750 Kawasaki Vulcan wasnt bad either. HMMMMM i have a opportunity to buy a well taken care of 1100 Virago ( would be my last bike ) Think i should do it !!!!???? By the way i am ashamed to say it but my first virago was left outside in the cold winters of Canada but every time i would start it in the winter , never a problem !!!!!!!!!!!!

No bike had hazard lights back then? My 79 KZ650 must have been ahead of its time.

My wife has a 1995 Virago 1100. Bought it new 1995 and she loves it!!

I sold my v star 650 4 yes ago. I bought new and kept it 10yrs. I was looking at getting a v star 1100, but I found a 93 virago 750 that looks to be in grea ft shape. I've always loved Viragos and I think I'm gonna go look at it when I get home on Friday.

I'm trying to decide on a bike I can take with me when I move out to Vancouver Island. Something I can commute on, ride highway on the weekend and maybe couple times a year do some serious touring. plan on cruising up and down the coast as much as finances will allow. I was looking at a sporty 1200 (i have a sporty 883 now that I cant take with me). Anyone reading me owned one of these long term? I feel a little iffy buying something that old (90's) but come on, yamaha. pretty reliable i would say. any voters for the Virago for this style of riding?

At 3:58: who ever owned this bike loved this bike. I find that Virago owners really do love their bikes.

I have a 93 xv750 Trike. I love how comfortable it is.

I just bought a 99' Virago 100 for $50. It's a total rust bucket and I'm a beginner with motorcycles. I'm going to rebuild the whole bike. Whoa!

I just got a 1982 Virago in 'eh' shape. Will be a great project

I’ve rode dirt bikes for the past 5 years and now I’m on the market for a beginner touring bike. I have my eye on a clean ‘95 Virago 750, would this be a good bike to start on?

I have an 87 virago, and love it. Such a great bike, and I hope they make a comeback someday.

Nice. I just picked up a 750. P.s. I never hafta use the choke on my VS 1400. You forgot to say your verse this time brother.

I had a 750 Yamaha Virago that ran like a clock but after being on the street in NYC for 5 years electric parts started to fall off and needed work to start. I sold it for $200 to someone walking by.

This makes me want to sell my 82 and get one like that just to get rid of that awful starter grind.

I have the 750 in blue , it’s the most comfortable riding bike I have ever had, it had 7,800 miles wen I got it , it’s 16,650 love it .

As a Honda guy it's hard to understand how anyone can like those curved inward handlebars. Every time I ever rode a friend's Yamaha those things felt left-handed and French.

I have an 82 virago 750 with 14xxx Mile's on it. Pearl white. Pipes. It's a fun bike.

I am doing a SRK cycle video marathon, I think I've watched maybe 900,000 videos so far give or take a 100, 000 in the last two weeks alone, is it summer yet? 🤪

My cousin had one just like it except it didn’t have those obscene white wall tires it! Great bike!

4:00 I just got a virago and fully intend to be that guy.

Big time help, helped me to decide on my first bike, I'm getting me one 😁

My wife went to look at this bike last night. Same color and everything. I'm sending her this vid to try and push her out of the contemplative stage and into making the purchase XD

I took the motocylce course and have a yamaha virgo 250 liked it but ever since then have not been on bike wish one day to buy a bike 👍

I had a 97 Virago 1100 and that thing was a beast

Looking at buying one but needs a new tank, it’s gonna be my project bike

I got the same problem with my 1100 Virago... I don't have to use the choke to start it up

I know this is old but I miss mine so much I had a 85 700 limited edition Yamaha racing maroon paint I won 2nd place in a bike show with it.

Suzuki intruder 800. Yamaha virago 1100. Harley dyna wide glydes. I love those bikes. The yamaha has low ground clearance tho. Kinda scary sometimes

what kind of motorcycle did king david from the bible ride his truimph was herd threw out the land

Were are your gloves?

those pipes sound great

I have the same bike colors and everything then i have a 96 its pearl white and red and i love these bikes they are so comfortable and they run for ever carb probs if let them sit and coils the only problems i have ever had easy fixes and thats because they set a few years but cleaned them up and they run great.

Wish I had those highway hawk forward controls. They're worth their weight in gold in the virago world.

14 and looking for a project bike and im pretty much stuck to finding a good virago. Thx for the review on the bike

My little 89' 250 was bullet proof. Fun first bike. Only thing that broke was the speedometer from gunning it. lol

Just test rode a 1992 1100 and I’m in love