There’s a new Japanese bobber in the market and it’s called the 2020 Yamaha Bolt. It’s been a while since we’ve heard anything from this particular Yamaha Sport Heritage model (2015 was its Malaysian debut with the XV950R) but now, a new generation has been announced to make its debut for the US and Japanese market very soon.
Marketed as the ‘perfect union of old‑school soul and modern form featuring a torquey V‑Twin, and classic bobber design’, the 2020 Yamaha Bolt is offered in two different variants, the standard Bolt and the range-topping Bolt R. The ‘Urban Performance Bobber’ offers a minimalist styling paired with a compact chassis as well as a high-tech 942cc V-Twin engine.
Housed within its double-cradle frame is an air-cooled V-twin SOHC engine that produces 53hp at 5,500rpm and 80Nm of maximum torque as low as 3,000rpm. Paired with a five-speed gearbox and belt final drive, the new Yamaha Bolt offers a punchy and exhilarating low to mid-range riding experience.
Other highlighted features include:
- Low seat height (690mm)
- Beefy 41mm front forks + twin rear shocks
- Custom spoke wheels (19-inch front, 16-inch rear)
- 298mm front disc brakes (wave rotors for both front & back)
- 13-litre teardrop-shaped fuel tank
- LCD meter instrument
- Rear LED taillamp
As for the range-topping 2020 Yamaha Bolt R, that comes with all the fixings of the standard Bolt, apart from a unique Matte Silver paint job, rear dual piggyback shocks, and a set of 12-spoke cast alloy wheels. The Japanese can get one in a few months’ time with prices from 979,000 yen to 1,025,200 yen (around RM40,000-RM42,000).
