Yamaha XV 950 Bolt R-Spec (2021-2022): A Modern Bobber with Soul

Introduction

The Yamaha Bolt R-Spec isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. Designed for riders who crave the raw, minimalist appeal of a bobber but refuse to compromise on modern performance, this machine straddles the line between classic aesthetics and 21st-century engineering. Part of Yamaha’s "Faster Sons" lineage, the Bolt R-Spec leans into the brand’s Sport Heritage ethos, blending stripped-down styling with a surprisingly agile chassis and a torquey V-twin heart. Having spent time with this bike, it’s clear Yamaha aimed to create something that feels at home in both urban sprawls and winding backroads—a bike that’s as much about attitude as it is about function.

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Design: Industrial Minimalism Meets Custom Charm

The Bolt R-Spec’s design is a masterclass in purposeful simplicity. Its blacked-out 942cc V-twin engine dominates the aluminum double-cradle frame, while the 2-into-1 exhaust pipes curve aggressively downward, emitting a throaty growl that’s muted enough for city compliance but characterful enough to turn heads. The 2021 model’s Raven black finish and the 2022 Storm Gray option both lean into a stealthy, no-nonsense vibe, accentuated by matte textures and minimal chrome.

The solo suede-style saddle sits at a confidence-inspiring 690 mm (27.2 inches), making it accessible for riders of varying heights. Subtle details—like the LED taillight shaped to echo vintage designs and the 12-spoke cast alloy wheels—hint at Yamaha’s attention to nostalgia without feeling dated. The fenders are short and steel, a blank canvas for riders looking to chop or customize further. Even the LCD digital gauge, mounted low on the triple clamp, avoids cluttering the cockpit, displaying only essential info like speed, odometer, and fuel range.

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Engine Performance: Torque is the Name of the Game

At the core of the Bolt R-Spec is its air-cooled, 942cc, 60-degree V-twin engine—a powerplant that prioritizes low-end grunt over top-speed theatrics. With 80.4 Nm (59.3 ft.lbs) of torque peaking at just 3,000 RPM, this bike pulls like a freight train from stoplights. The fuel-injected mill pairs with a 5-speed transmission that’s smooth but deliberate; shifts click into place with a satisfying mechanical solidity.

Riding the Bolt R-Spec feels akin to piloting a muscle car. Throttle response is linear, thanks to Yamaha’s dual-bore injection system, and the belt drive delivers power to the rear wheel seamlessly, without the clatter or maintenance fuss of a chain. Cruising at 100 km/h (62 mph) in fifth gear, the engine hums at a relaxed 3,500 RPM, making it surprisingly composed for highway stretches. Fuel efficiency sits at 4.61 L/100 km (51 mpg), translating to a range of roughly 280 km (174 miles) from its 13-liter tank—adequate for day rides, though frequent fill-ups may be needed on longer trips.

The exhaust note deserves special mention: it’s a bass-heavy rumble at idle that crescendos into a snarling bark under acceleration. Yamaha’s 2-into-1 system strikes a balance between EPA compliance and auditory thrill, though aftermarket options (more on that later) could amplify the personality.

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Handling and Chassis: Agile for a Cruiser

Don’t let the Bolt’s cruiser categorization fool you—this bike handles with a nimbleness that rivals lighter nakeds. The compact 1,570 mm (61.8-inch) wheelbase and mid-mounted footpegs create a natural, upright riding position that encourages leaning into corners. The 41mm KYB front fork offers 120 mm (4.7 inches) of travel, soaking up potholes without wallowing, while the R-Spec’s dual piggyback shocks (preload-adjustable) provide a firmer, more controlled feel than the standard Bolt’s suspension.

Ground clearance is limited at 130 mm (5.1 inches), so aggressive cornering will scrape the pegs sooner than you’d expect. But for urban riding and casual curves, the Bolt feels planted. The Bridgestone EXEDRA G721 tires—100/90-19 front and 150/80-16 rear—offer ample grip, though their blocky tread pattern leans more toward straight-line stability than sporty carving.

Braking is handled by wave-style discs front and rear, with a 298mm rotor up front gripped by a twin-piston caliper. Stopping power is adequate, though the setup lacks the initial bite of radial-mounted Brembos. The rear brake, mounted discreetly under the swingarm, feels more like a complement than a primary tool—a reminder that this bike rewards proactive downshifting.

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Comfort and Ergonomics: Built for the Streets

The Bolt R-Spec’s ergonomics prioritize urban practicality. The low seat height and narrow tank profile make it easy to flat-foot at stops, a boon in stop-and-go traffic. The buckhorn-style handlebar pulls the rider into a slight forward lean, reducing wrist strain compared to ape hangers, while the footpegs sit further rearward than traditional cruisers, creating a natural knee bend.

That said, the solo saddle’s padding is firm—aesthetic over plush—and the rear shocks, even at their softest preload setting, transmit sharp impacts on rough roads. Passengers get a removable pillion seat, but the cramped accommodations and minimal rear suspension travel (70 mm / 2.8 inches) make this a solo rider’s machine.

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Competition: How Does the Bolt R-Spec Stack Up?

In the mid-sized cruiser segment, the Bolt R-Spec faces stiff rivals:

1. Honda Rebel 1100: Honda’s parallel-twin Rebel offers more tech (including ride modes and optional DCT), but its engine lacks the Bolt’s visceral V-twin pulse. The Rebel is smoother but less charismatic.
2. Indian Scout Sixty: With a 999cc V-twin, the Scout Sixty delivers more power (78 hp vs. the Bolt’s ~65 hp) and premium finishes, but it’s heavier (244 kg vs. 247 kg) and pricier.
3. Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114: Harley’s Milwaukee-Eight engine is a torque monster, but the Street Bob weighs 297 kg (655 lbs)—a significant penalty in agility.

The Bolt R-Spec’s advantage lies in its accessibility. It’s lighter than most rivals, easier to maneuver at low speeds, and far more customizable straight from the factory. While it won’t win drag races, its combination of style, simplicity, and approachable performance makes it a standout for riders seeking a blank canvas.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Bolt R-Spec in Prime Shape

Yamaha’s air-cooled V-twin is refreshingly low-maintenance. Key considerations:
- Valve Adjustments: Required every 25,000 km (15,500 miles)—a generous interval thanks to the SOHC setup and roller rocker arms.
- Oil Changes: Use 10W-40 mineral or synthetic oil every 5,000 km (3,100 miles). The spin-on filter and accessible drain plug simplify DIY servicing.
- Belt Drive: Inspect tension every 10,000 km (6,200 miles). Unlike chains, there’s no lubrication needed—just check for debris.
- Suspension: Grease the swingarm pivot and shock linkages annually if riding in wet conditions.

For upgrades, MOTOPARTS.store offers bolt-on enhancements:
- Exhaust Systems: Swap the stock muffler for a freer-flowing slip-on to unlock a deeper exhaust note (and minor performance gains).
- Seats: Replace the factory saddle with a gel-padded or sprung option for long-haul comfort.
- Suspension Kits: Aftermarket shocks with adjustable damping can improve ride quality on bumpy roads.

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Final Thoughts

The Yamaha Bolt R-Spec isn’t trying to be everything to everyone—and that’s its strength. It’s a motorcycle that embraces its identity as a raw, unapologetic bobber while delivering enough modern refinement to keep daily riders happy. Whether you’re threading through city traffic or blasting down a coastal highway, this bike exudes a mechanical honesty that’s increasingly rare in today’s tech-saturated market. For riders who value character over gadgets and customization over conformity, the Bolt R-Spec is a compelling choice. And when you’re ready to make it truly yours, MOTOPARTS.store has the upgrades to transform this capable base into a one-of-a-kind machine.

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Specifications sheet

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