You may or may not know that the Virago is the predecessor to the V Star 1100. The V Star 1100 engine was based on the Virago engine and you’ll find many similar characteristics.
In 2006 Yamaha split the popular “Star” bikes into their own Premium Brand known as the “Star Motorcycles” http://www.starmotorcycles.com/
This “Brand” includes:
- V Star 650
- V Star 1100
- Road Star
- Royal Star
- Roadliner
- Stratoliner
- Raider
- V MAX –added after being in production since 1985
- And low and behold the legacy (no longer manufactured) Viragos were included into coveted new Brand!
It appears to be homage to the bike that started it all. The Viragos are not listed in the model lineup because they are no long manufactured but are included in the accessory section http://www.starmotorcycles.com/star/accessories/accessoryhome/5/star_accessories.aspx . This definitely makes it a “STAR”. From a Marketing/Branding perspective this is very clever on Yamaha’s part, giving the brand some trace back renaissance qualities.
What this means for the Virago owner an increased dollar value as well as future availability of parts and accessories. There is a lot of fond nostalgia for this bike us “Star people”. Legend has it that there is more than one Virago out there with ¼ million miles on the odometer. They are well known for there practical reliability and longevity.
So if you are a Virago owner, your Yamaha Virago is officially now called the Star Virago - Viva la Virago!!