The Yamaha XV100 Virago is one of the most beloved Japanese touring motorbikes ever made.
The over 30 reviews on ReviewCentre.com for the Virago are overwhelmingly positive. By modern standards, it may be basic, but owners note its “unstressed performance”, call its design “timeless” and praise its “impeccable reliability.”
This Virago motorbike is “ an eye-catcher”, thanks to its tear-drop gas tank. And she’s known for her comfort, riding position, light weight and amount of bottom-end torque. Harley Davidson was so worried about this bike that in 1984 they pushed for tariffs on 700cc Motorcycles.
With a top speed of 116 mph, the Virago 1100 benefits from a windscreen, cruise control and throttle lock. But it’s happiest at speeds of 85mph, and could do with another top-end gear.
Watch out for the earlier models which have a design flaw in the starter motors and a weak starter clutch.
The Virago is an ideal used purchase deal for the smaller rider looking to own a classic motorcycle.
written by Harry6String on 03/02/2020
1995 Virago 1100. 22k and rides like a dream. Not too big, not too small. Installed front fork springs, as the front end famously wallowed at speed, or over rough tarmac. Progressive fork springs sorted it all out. The front breaks are okay, but you can never too much break. Replaced the break lines with braided stainless steel lines to help with hard stops. After I put on aftermarket exhaust, the carburetors were jetted on the lean side, and the engine ran hot. I rejected them, now it starts better, runs cooler, and has better power. The bike needs a windscreen if it’s used at highway speeds much. A cruse control, or throttle lock is helpful. The saddle looks good, but has few options for movement after you have sat awhile. The horns were replaced for louder units. The engine makes good power, is reliable and designed for ease of maintenance. I adjust the valves myself, saving a lot of money. She rides like a rolling comfy chair. Shaft drive requires no maintenance beyond oil change. Rear shocks have plenty of spring rate for two up ridding. The left pod injects air into the exhaust, causing it to backfire. That stuff was all removed, the lines capped, problem solved. It’s no race bike, not designed for off road use, could use a sixth gear. For an 1100, top speed is 115 mph, any 600cc will top that. Realistically, 85 mph is the outer limits, as the bars get buzzy beyond that speed. The looks get comments at the filling station. It gets 50 mpg. Rear tire lasts 5k, front tire last 8 to 10k. Front fork seals last 10k, the left side always leaks first. Wha? The cables, clutch, speedo and throttle, need replace from time to time, as there failure happen unannounced. I’m very happy with this product. They make nice guitars too!
written by ydWhite274 on 01/09/2016
I have owned Suzuki and Honda bikes after losing my first a 94 Virago 1100 ( won't get into how I lost it). I just this week bought my second yamaha a 1986 Virago 1100. The starter clutch needs to be replaced and that is nothing new for Viragos, starter issues have been prevalent over the years. A minor issue in the bigger picture is the starter as these bikes are reliable performers. They need to be riden short trips will foul the plugs. Best bike I have owned in terms of comfort, riding position, light weight and plenty of bottom end torque.. This bike is a keeper, it's beautifully shaped tank and chromed engine make it an eye catcher.. My 30 year old bike still looks great cleans up nicely and I never get tired of how she feels to ride..
written by jgpurch on 24/01/2016
I own two viragos, a 1984 750 and a 1999 1100. The 1984 has 120,000 km and the 1999 has 110,000 km. They both run great. I had the 1984 for about six years and decided I wanted more power. I was looking at Harleys, V Stars and some suzukis, but always came back to the Virago. The other bikes just can't compete all the chrome and unique styling of the Virago. I have taken many long trips on both. The last trip for the 1984 was in 2012 from Toronto to Sturgis South Dakota, with my daughter on the back, almost 5000k with no incidents other than my daughter leaning her knee on my saddle bags and starting them on fire on the muffler. The 1100 is a real head turner for sure. I basically get shunned by any of the Harley guys when I stop at rest stops and gas stations, but that is expected. Because I know for fact that they are envious when their bikes are in the shop for numerous expensive repairs, and I am still riding. And when I do need maintenance and repairs, the costs are surprisingly reasonable.
written by Bowen368 on 17/09/2014
I love my bike! It never lets down and i always enjoy riding it! It doesnt scrape around the corners and it sits nicely on the long rouds (i put on highway peggs). Its is also good for gravel roads (i live in south africa). My friend has a 78 xs 1100. It is also a nice bike, but i like the v2 better. Sadly, mine has some rust under the crome, but thats only character!
written by Folkert on 08/09/2014
Hi I am also a owner of a virago 1100 but I have a major problem. I have no fire on the rear piston. Have had it at several think tey know guys but without succes. Help please.
written by on 09/05/2014
I have a 1997 xv1100 that had 7400 Ks on it when I bought it. Has a few rust spots from sitting with previous owner but I now have 22000 ks on it. Combination of city and highway ddriving but no long trips yet.My only complaint is that it could do with another gear when on the highway. It has lots of power but does get a little buzzy over 120 kpm. Also even for me it is a little bit cramped when sitting over long distances. Also difficult to find aftermarket parts. Other than those minor issues the bike is fantastic and I would highly recommend it
written by Marcel101 on 24/03/2014
Simply put The Very Best. I have a 1100 Virago. 1996 will never get rid of it , very comfortable, reliable, and a great looker. Bull is his name and Riding is his aim.
written by teriakiman on 30/12/2013
Best Points:- VERY Comfy on long trips, great looks - a head turner, best engine ever produced - torquey, ecmonomical when not fanged out to the max, simple and easy to maintain. A tinkerers delight - no fancy fuel injection to go wrong. Bad points:- Needs an aftermarket cruise control on long trips. OEM fork seals do not last long. Ground clearance on corners can be a bit restricted (if you don't set up the shocks and forks properly) I have owned 4 of these over the last 20 years, the latest being a 1997 XV1100 Virage Special. Once bitten.... anyway I have had a good run with them all mechanically, and are an absolute joy to ride. While not being the fastest bike out there, they more than make up for it in comfort and ride quality. The only negatives I have experienced are the starter motors on my early models and the fork seals on all of them, they do not seem to last long, however I did find equivalent aftermarket seals and these tend to last a long time. The lack of cruise control is not really a bad point as the clip on ones can be bought on evil bay for aroung US$30 plus postage, this makes a HUGE difference to RH wrist fatigue on those long hauls. All my Viragos were set up up for long trips by adding; a low 15" windscreen, a set of paniers, sheep skin seat cover, a pack rack and gearsack and highway pegs. They are so comfy that even after 10-12 hours in the saddle I felt like I've just travelled down to the local and back. These are the most underated bikes ever produced and like others I agree it is such a shame Yamaha do not make these anymore. The later XV's just did not cut it for me.
Written on: 25/05/2014
I bought this bike 1100 xvs 4 years ago. We have been to just about every state park in GA. Drove her to Honduras through Mexico and Guatemala last year and to the deep Southwestern coast of Mexico (Puerto Escondido) the year before. I had to replace gas tank (rust) (and it was worth the 800 bucks) which cured all problems. It is the greatest bike ever. Yamaha is a pain though. They won't repair anything over 8 years old. Buy your parts here and take them to MX mechanics there are cheap and can usually fix anything.
written by teriakiman on 30/12/2013
Best Points:- VERY Comfy on long trips, great looks - a head turner, best engine ever produced - torquey, ecmonomical when not fanged out to the max, simple and easy to maintain. A tinkerers delight - no fancy fuel injection to go wrong. Bad points:- Needs an aftermarket cruise control on long trips. OEM fork seals do not last long. Ground clearance on corners can be a bit restricted (if you don't set up the shocks and forks properly) I have owned 4 of these over the last 20 years, the latest being a 1997 XV1100 Virage Special. Once bitten.... anyway I have had a good run with them all mechanically, and are an absolute joy to ride. While not being the fastest bike out there, they more than make up for it in comfort and ride quality. The only negatives I have experienced are the starter motors on my early models and the fork seals on all of them, they do not seem to last long, however I did find equivalent aftermarket seals and these tend to last a long time. The lack of cruise control is not really a bad point as the clip on ones can be bought on evil bay for aroung US$30 plus postage, this makes a HUGE difference to RH wrist fatigue on those long hauls. All my Viragos were set up up for long trips by adding; a low 15" windscreen, a set of paniers, sheep skin seat cover, a pack rack and gearsack and highway pegs. They are so comfy that even after 10-12 hours in the saddle I felt like I've just travelled down to the local and back. These are the most underated bikes ever produced and like others I agree it is such a shame Yamaha do not make these anymore. The later XV's just did not cut it for me.
written by citation01 on 07/12/2013
After not riding for twenty five years, being sixty two years old, and not ever owning a bike that was over 650 cc I questioned my new desire to purchase a Virago 1100, or any bike, as far as that went. I talked to several people, some of who had owned and rode a Virago 1100. The only negative thing I ever heard was that the bike was too short and may cramp your arms and legs. They all told me of the ease of riding and the power that this bike is famous for. Well, I puchased a 1987 Virago 1100 that had be stored for five years. The bike was in great shape, a couple of bikers told me that I stole it, at $2000.00. All it took to safety was fork seals and I asked to have the brake fluid changed. It had 32,900 klm. on it. I rode it for a couple of weeks around town just to get the feel of it. Comfort was amazing, quite, responsive, and easy to ride. What a surprise when I ventured out on the highway, you better hang on, it's like a rocket! I work 100 klm. away and riding to and from work is a blast. After putting 4000 klm. on it I swear it just gets better. Yeah, I made the right decision.
written by FlamingA on 12/05/2013
I decided to buy a 1987 Virago after checking all the reviews and finally accepting the cool yet quirky look of the bike. I bought it with 70k on the clock and told the motor was out of a 96. I like shaft drives as there is no maintenance and no delays in takeoff.The bike was advertised at 3400 $NZ but I got it for $3000. I had to drive 500 km to collect the bike. She started first pop and I went for a drive but she was farting around. The owner had saud the bike had little use recently.It was in excellent condition although the seat had a recover which I don't like. She was quite quick and the seat is very low ideal for short riders. When I got it home I went to start it and the starter wouldn't kick her over. I wound and wound but nothing. I didn't use the throttle but it wouldn't turn over. I took the battery out and gave it a full charge hoping it was the lack of charge and not the starter at fault although these bikes are renown for having a very basic starter system that malfunctions. After full charge I fitted the battery expecting great results and lo and behold nothing happened again. I text the owner who said the bike was in great condition. Changing tact I decided to check the plugs as Id smelt fuel. One plug was especially wet. I cleaned them both and checked the gap. I tied again, this time there was firing and eventually she burst into life. I decided to grab the moment so went for a quick ride and she was farting out and only firing on one cylinder. I went and grab a one tank dose of fuel injector cleaner. She started clearing so I decided to go riding. 300 km later I returned home, the bike was firing on both cylinders and starting easily and first pop. The bike was very quick and agile and a real pleasure to ride as the other reviews have testified. Reasonably good on gas but not having a fuel gauge is a pain. My bike feels comfortable up to 140km/h. After that it feels maxed out. I'm happy with that as NZ speed limit is 100 km/h. Mine has slash cut exhausts and makes a very cool sound that highlights the V twin perfectly. I've owned and ridden a 1500 Kawasaki and the ride is different. The Kawasaki had heaps of grunt and would accelerate to about 180 quite quickly, its a big machine and I would classify as a bigger end bike. My 1100 would be a mid range cruiser. It has power and agility and is a great ride. It corners well. I've got good value for money. I would have bought a 1500 Kawasaki over the Yamaha given $2000 more than my budget allows. The Yamaha Virago 1100 is a great bike to ride. I don't like the starter system compared with the Kawasaki.
Written on: 19/01/2014
This is my review. I have done another 2000km on this bike- 1000km trip and 2 450 km trips. Its growing on me big-time. Its great in the corners-power and more power when you need it and is pretty good on fuel too. Its an odd bike-Not overly good looking but very very refreshing to ride on long and short trips. I'm amazed she's so good.
written by Alexander57 on 31/12/2011
I would agree with the other reviews, all positive, however I disagree on hte comfort aspect. I have owned 3 virago 1100's, that's says alot, I try to get rid of it but end up buying another. It only matches my affllication for the XV900f, the older one not the new brick. The FJ1200 nearly killed me but what tourer - note the Yamaha theme. Back to the Virago, the seat and my bum. The seat on all 3 was toooo soft and holy uncomfortable after 50 miles - the XJ and BMW easily outlast it. I'm working on a cheap conversion as alternatives cost more than an arm and a leg, and I'd like to keep both. I'm not bias - my mate clocked 2500 miles throught Europe and swore it was the best yet. Pick one, try it. The best buys are 1100's, low milage with the starter motor and solenoidd replaced, wire wheels (wot else),ride it free and easy or rough and ready.
written by on 24/06/2011
After moving to Ireland I decided to purchase a motorcycle and found myself owning a 1987 gold edition (i.e. wheels, speedo, tach, etc...)700cc Yamaha Virago (American Import). In the few years that I owned the bike I covered the entire Republic of Ireland on several occasions. It never missed a beat and was perfectly reliable throughout its time with me. It always produced enough power and I can agree with many other of the reviewers on this site that her speed is equal to and possibly slightly "nippier" than an HD Sportser. It was great for long journeys and perfect for a daily commuter. It was also a very comfortable bike for my wife, then girlfriend to ride two up on. The bad bits: It rains most of the year in Ireland and I found myself constantly polishing all of that chrome. Now that I am back in Canada, I am looking to buy a Virago again in 2012 but admit that I am also considering having the engine (chrome bits) painted mat-black. But that is just a personal thing. The starter is prone to problems on these early Virago's, but I had changed mine immediately after buying it as to avoid any possible problems in future. This is a great bike for beginners as well as the experienced and it should never be underestimated! There are limitations to what you can do to 'bob' it unless you actually change the entire rear of the bike... which you can see via YouTube and range from really great to pretty shabby. Thus, unless you know what your doing, perhaps enjoy the bike for what it is and as it is.
written by on 20/01/2011
firstly , i love my virago , and having owned many bikes , the only thing that comes close to the virago is kawasaki's vn series , but in my humble opinion , the virago has a better engine , the riding position and build quality is much the same .
whether touring around my back yard ( scotland) or road tripping throught europe , the virago never misses a beat , its so comfy that the only time you need to stop is for fuel , it never fails to turn heads too .
there are loads of bolt on extras to further enhance its appearance , iv ridden a harley 1200 sporster for a while and much prefer the viragos agility and comfort .
fit it with a rear rack and it will take all your camping gear , beer and a bonza sheila too..
go buy one , keep it real , keep it safe amd rock on .
big al
Written on: 15/04/2012
wow...i have a 98 virago 1100 and a kaw vn 750...love them both...was moving bgger to the 1100 and planned to sell the 750 but just could not part with it...they are both awesome bikes...however the virago is missing a bit ...new plugs ...and the 750 is killing batteries in one short ride...ruled out the stator and just had the reg/rec andwiring harness replaced...at a loss...but i know ithey are both fixable and will keep them till they die...
Written on: 15/04/2012
thanks....heres to keeping the rubber on the road !!!
written by on 24/12/2010
I bought my XV100SE a few years back from a guy who had her covered in blankets in his barn. When he pulled the blankets off it was love at first sight. The bike had less than five thousand kilometers and looked like it had just been wheeled out of the factory. Everything was shiny and in mint condition. There have been a couple of issues with the starter motor jamming (known problem) but still always starts and is very reliable. The bike is only used in the summer and lives in my garage the rest of the time. It's such a lovely comfy bike and is full of character that I could never sell her. She's almost at 10000 kms now, so I know there is literally years of life in her yet. I would definately recommend this bike to anyone.
written by on 23/08/2010
The Virago 1100 is great for grins and is a reminder of what cruisers used to be - and should be today. Lightweight, relatively nimble and fast. Even nearly three decades after the model was launched, it is still a viable ride and preferable to a Harley Sportster, both 883 and 1200. Much quicker than both - and a much better value.
Positive attributes: Weighs about 450 pounds wet. Great on corners and curves (for a cruiser). Comfortable seat. Not a Harley styling clone. Killer engine that runs all day and is silky smooth when properly tuned.
Negatives: Parts are getting hard to find. Can look cheap as it ages. Brakes are just okay. Not a long distance vehicle.
Suggested upgrades: RETURN TO STOCK (OEM) PIPES! Most aftermarket exhausts are simply about loud and actually drain performance. This is perhaps the single most important move I made when restoring my bike. Also, braided brake cable makes a dramatic improvement in feel.
My riding experience: 43 years with a variety of cruisers, sportbikes and dirt bikes.
Current stable: 2009 Kawasaki ZX600R; 1997 Kawasaki ZX-1100; 1993 Harley FXR; 2007 Harley Springer CVO; 1984 Honda Sabre V-4 700c.
Written on: 19/10/2010
Good review except a little misleading regarding the reference to the sportster. Having owned both the Sportster 1200 and the 1100 Virago, I can assure you the Sportster is significantly faster from 0-60 and 60-80. Plus I found the Sportster to have more leg room on the custom.
Written on: 16/07/2011
These bikes are cruisers not race bikes but the Virago would beat the Sportster every day.
written by on 19/07/2010
it is really a shame that yamaha have stopped making the XV1100 .
mine has performed flawlesly from new.
in the twelve years and 48000 miles it has never let us down.
She has been accross to europe through france into spain on three occasions and never missed a beat.
she really has been a joy to ride and own.
the low seat hight and light weight also meant that my wife could ride her when i got tired on long trips and i could ride pillion for a change..
she is now semi retired with only short runs out down to the coast on sunny days for long weekends .
A truly great allrounder that can be used all year round and deserves it`s classic status.
written by on 21/03/2010
My bike is a Sydney (Australia) purchase and found the local registration rules a lot easier than when I shipped here to Vienna in 2005. New EU regs made life extremely difficult - also the 1100 was never sold in Austria.
For total reliability, the bike cannot be beaten. It is always a comfortable and relaxed ride and despite fuel economy which is not brilliant (40mpg) I would not swap my 1100 for any other right now.
written by RICK1100 on 05/02/2010
MY FIRST VIRAGO 1100 WAS GREAT FOR TWO UP TOURING AROUND FRANCE FAST LIGHT AND ECONOMICAL DID 30000 MILES ON THAT ONE REPLACED IT WITH THE 1100 DRAGSTAR CLASSIC GREAT LOOKS BUT EVEN THOUGH ITS THE SAME MOTOR AS THE VIRAGO MUCH SLOWER HEAVY LESS ECONOMY AND MUCH HARDER TO CHANGE TYRES ON SO I SOLD IT AND GOT MY LATEST VIRAGO 1100 AND I WILL BE KEEPING THIS ONE FOR A VERY LONG TIME AND WILL BE OFF TO THE SOUTH OF FRANCE IN A FEW WEEKS TIME FOR SOME MORE GREAT CRUISING. I HAVE SEEN MANY VIRAGO 1100s WITH OVER 100000 MILE ON THE CLOCK SO A VERY RELIABLE MOTOR WITH ONLY THE VERY FIRST MODELS HAVING A STARTER PROBLEM BUT NONE ON THE LATER MODELS. JUST OFF FOR A RIDE TO THE COAST GREAT
Written on: 23/08/2013
What years were there a problem on starter issues? Im looking at a 96' 1100 virago and a 86' 700 virago.
Written on: 08/04/2014
I have a 97 1100 and there are no starter issues whatsoever. I believe the issues were on much earlier models. I would highly recomend the 96 1100.
written by on 17/07/2009
I love 1996 virago1100, it was one of the quickest and most reliable bike I ever own. Never had a problem with the bike at all in the 13 year I have owned it. I love picking on Harley who thing it one of the clan until I blow there mirrors off. Long trip up the coast of Southern Calif, or any where are no problem. My virago1100 is my commuter bike my other bike is 1982 Honda CBX, another great bike.
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Jonahprescott's Comment
Written on: 09/07/2018
I have an 1993 750 Virago, is it worth upgrading to the 1100, i only have 8000 miles on it and its in perfect condition