Yamaha has made quick updates for 2023. The Sport Heritage bike, Bolt R-Spec, combines old-school styling and modern form. It features the torquey V-twin engine, giving you a supreme ride feel. The bike is designed to deliver excellent power combined with a rather timeless design. Yamaha has developed and updated this bike to make it feel like an “Urban Performance Bobber.” The 2023 Bolt R-Spec can only be purchased in one original – storm grey color, which complements the rest of its all black aesthetics. Yamaha has made changes in the bike’s fuel tank, which now looks more like a teardrop, multi-spoke alloy wheels and steel fenders contribute to making this bike more beautiful and old school.
How much does the Yamaha Bolt R-Spec cost?
- Prices start at: $8,899
- Destination Charge: $475
- Freight Surcharge: $375
How fast is the Yamaha Bolt R-Spec?
The top speed of the 2023 Bolt R-Spec is 106 mph (170.6 kmph). The motorcycle’s performance is all due to its 58-cubic-inch (942cc) engine with four valves per cylinder. The Bolt R-Spec engine is designed for power and provides excellent low-end torque.
Yamaha Bolt R-Spec Fuel Efficiency or MPG
The MPG or fuel efficiency of the 2023 Bolt R-Spec is 51 MPG (21.68 km/l). It has a fuel tank capacity of 3.4 gal. The bike can go an estimated 174 miles for a full gas tank.
Pros & Cons of 2023 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec
Pros of Yamaha Bolt R-Spec
- Engine: Powered by a 942cc air-cooled engine that is known for its low-range torque.
- Compact and Agile: Compact in size and a low seat height of mere 27.2 inches makes it comfortable for riders of all sizes.
- Stylish: Bolt R-Spec has a sleek and modern design with classic cruiser looks. Its bobbed rear fender stands out.
- Performance: Well-tuned suspension that has a great rebound. The large twin rear shocks give better performance.
- Price: Good value for the money for performance and features in the middleweight cruiser segment.
Cons of Yamaha Bolt R-Spec
- Limited Fuel Capacity: The fuel tank is small for a cruiser (3.4 gal) when compared to other motorcycles.
- Basic Instruments: Instrument cluster is basic and does not have modern features.
- Wind protection: Due to lack of fairing or windshield, long rides at high speed might become tiring.
- Seat comfort: Stock seat might be uncomfortable for longer rides.
- Advanced tech features: Not many advanced technology features as in other models in the segment. Some of the important ones are traction control.
2023 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec Review
This bike has decently equipped features, including halogen headlamps, an LED tail lamp, and a modern touch of digital gauges. The riders can also choose between different modes. The bike is belt-driven, which helps to avoid chain maintenance costs. Belt-driven enables the riders to enjoy their rides without feeling jerks and noise. Compact digital LCD meter assembly provides you with clean styling with exceptional visibility.
Performance and Handling
Bolt R-Spec gives out astonishing performance thanks to the most needed 58-cubic-inch (942cc) engine, which is an air-cooled SOHC 60-degree V-twin with four valves per cylinder; The combustion is pent-roof shaped, which gives out a compression ratio of 9:0:1 . The V-twin engine churns out 47 hp and 80 Nm of torque which is impressive when we compare 1000cc “Sport Heritage” bikes. The engine is paired with 5-speed manual transmission. The fuel injection is a sophisticated twin bore. It helps in delivering strong acceleration to the urban riding fun. The Bolt R-Spec has a top speed is 106mph.
The bike might not have a high speed, but Bolt’s agile nature and torque low in the rev range promises a fun ride. The friction loss remains minimum thanks to the Special roller-type rocker arms with needle bearings. As a result, the engine receives ideal performance characteristics, which will surely bring a smile to every rider’s face.
The 2-into-1 exhaust pipe layout on the right side of the machine provides lively performance and minimalist styling while delivering a rich, throaty exhaust note. The air cleaner has a covering of “stainless steel,” which provides a “raw metal” look that accentuates the Bolt R-Spec’s aluminum pistons have a lightweight, high-strength, perfect design which contributes to reduced vibration and increased durability and also the value of the bike grows. The handling and position of the bike are also very impressive, thanks to all the features added by the Yamaha.
Technology and Features
Yamaha has added unique features and tech in its new 2023 Bolt R-Spec. Starting with the visibility of the meter, the Compact digital LCD meter assembly provides clean styling with excellent visibility, which makes it easier to take notice of every detail while on a ride at night. The modern LED rear taillight looks fantastic and adds to contemporary bobber styling. Front and rear fenders are capable of personalization, including paint and customization.
The head-turning beauty added to this bike is the “BOBBER-STYLE SEAT,” which provides an upright riding posture that helps the rider to feel the wind, hear the sounds and experience the pulse of the machine. It also provides a classy bobber look to the bike without compromising comfort while going on long rides.
Riding Experience OF THIS ULTIMATE “Urban Performance Bobber”
Riding the new Bolt R-Spec gives you a fantastic thrill and joy. The bike is very comfortable as well. A double-cradle frame provides perfect handling thanks to the rigid mount system, which mounts the engine directly to the structure, which city driving enhances many times. : Distinctive 12-spoke cast alloy wheels provide grip on the road when paired with good tires and toughness.
The Bolt R-Spec is equipped with a 61.8-inch wheelbase, which offers excellent handling on sharp turns and helps make the city ride solid. The seats are just 27.2 inches off the pavement. The low seat provides a great riding position, especially for long rides. The riders can quickly put both feet on the ground at a stop. Yamaha also added advanced suspension, which provides excellent comfort and handling while contributing to the machine’s low, aggressive profile.
2023 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec Pictures
Yamaha Bolt R-Spec Videos
2023 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec Competitors
Below are some of the top competitors of the 2023 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec in table format for easy scan –
| Model | Power (hp) | Torque (lbs-ft) | Price ($) | Top Speed (mph) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Suzuki Boulevard C50 | 53 | 52 | 8,909 | 112 |
| 2023 Indian Scout Bobber | 100 | 72 | 10,749 | 128 |
| 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan S | 50 | 46.3 | 7,899 | 110 |
| 2023 Honda Rebel 500 | 45.9 | 29.9 | 6,449 | 95 |
2023 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec Tour Specs
| ENGINE | |
| Engine Type | 58-cubic-inch (942cc) air-cooled SOHC V-twin; 4 valves |
| Bore x Stroke | 85.0mm x 83.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Delivery | Fuel injection |
| Ignition | TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition |
| Transmission | 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch |
| Final Drive | Belt |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.4 gal |
| CHASSIS | |
| Suspension/Front | Telescopic fork, 4.7-in travel |
| Suspension/Rear | Dual piggyback shocks, 2.8-in travel |
| Brakes/Front | Hydraulic single disc, 298mm |
| Brakes/Rear | Hydraulic single disc, 298mm |
| Tires/Front | 100/90-19 Bridgestone® EXEDRA G721 F |
| Tires/Rear | 150/80-16 Bridgestone® EXEDRA G722 R |
| DIMENSIONS | |
| LxWxH | 90.2 in x 37.2 in x 44.1 in |
| Seat Height | 27.2 in |
| Wheelbase | 61.8 in |
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 29.0° |
| Trail | 5.1 in |
| Max. Ground Clearance | 5.1 in |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.4 gal |
| Fuel Economy | 51 MPG |
| Wet Weight | 542 lb |
| OTHER | |
| Warranty | 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty) |
Source: Yamaha Bolt R-Spec Official Website
Yamaha Bolt R-Spec FAQ
How customizable is the Yamaha Bolt R-Spec?
Yamaha Bolt R-Spec is very customizable. It is designed with customization in mind. The steel front and rear fenders could be personalized and are one of the ideal parts to go for first.
How comfortable is the seat height of Bolt R-Spec for short riders?
The seat height is 27.2 inches, which makes it ideal for most riders. The riders can put both of their feet firmly on the ground. This comes in handy while driving in heavy traffic or daily commute.
Is Yamaha Bolt R-Spec a good beginner motorcycle?
Beginners who want to go for midsize cruisers can easily ride it, but it is not an ideal choice as it is a bit heavy and more powerful and might be challenging to handle. A beginner with some prior riding experience can go for R-Spec. Remember, it’s different than the typical beginner motorcycle and might not be the right choice for all.
