A couple of questions on a Yamaha V-Star 950

What year did they start making them? Are they new for 2009 or have they been around previously?

Does anyone here own one? Would you recommend one? How does it compare to a V-Star 1300?  

I believe the 950 is planned to be the replacement for the 650. According to Motorcyclecruiser, it sounds like a new for '09.

Better question would be how does it compare to the 1100 (last entry in this cc category). The 1300 is what the 1100 grew into.  

The V Star is one of the bikes I'm considering purchasing for my first bike so I've been doing lots of "research" (other choice is the Vulcan 900 Classic LT).  The 950 came out in November 08.  All the reviews I have read are very positive - haven't heard a bad thing.  My husband has a 2007 1300 and loves it.  The 950 is designed for entry-level riders; the 1300 for those who want a bigger bike.  It depends what YOU'RE looking for in a bike.

BTW, the 950 wasn't created to replace the 650.  It's still out there.  But I have read that most speculate that this will be the last year for the 1100.  Keep doing your research (google, motorcycle mag websites, YouTube) - it takes time but it pays off! (P.S. Check out the review on www.womenridersnow.com for a chic's perspective on the 950.)  

I just purchased a brand new V-Star 950 and I think it's a great bike.  I heard that it is going to replace both the 650 and the 1100 in the Star line up.  Tell me if I'm wrong!  

I made the choice to buy the 950 Tourer.  If you go to the yamaha forum, there is a thread there for the v-Star 950 and you can read all the great reviews of those who have them.  I'm confident I made a great choice.   Now if it would only stop being cold and snowy up here in Alberta, I can get my bike home.........