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1997 Yamaha Royal Star Palamino Edition
The 1997 Yamaha Royal Star Palamino Edition motorcycle was set apart from other cruisers not only by its styling details, but also by its engine configuration.
 The cream opalescent paint, faux tan leather accents, and chrome trim help make the Palamino Edition a special ride. |
Yamaha's late 1990s interpretation of the cruiser concept differed from that of most other manufacturers, particularly in the engine department.
Whereas the traditional formula called for a 45-degree V-twin, this Japanese company chose a different route.
First of all, it's not a V-twin at all, but rather a V-four. Cylinder banks of the 1300-cc engine are separated by 70 degrees, and each is topped with double-overhead cams.
Though the cylinders have fins cast into them, the engine is primarily water cooled. And final drive is by shaft.
Elsewhere the Royal Star is perhaps more conventional, though the unusual cast spoke wheels are almost completely hidden by the large brake discs.
But what really sets the 1997 Yamaha Royal Star Palamino Edition motorcycle apart are the fine details.
Cream opalescent paint is accented with tan imitation leather on the seat, saddlebags, and tank strap, all of which are also studded. Even the hand grips are covered in matching material, and chrome trim abounds.
With its early-1980s Virago, Yamaha was the first Japanese company to hit the market with a cruiser-style bike. But the Royal Star led the concept into the 21st Century.
Continue to the next page to see more 1997 Yamaha Royal Star Palamino Edition motorcycle pictures.
1997 Yamaha Royal Star Palamino Edition Pictures
The cruiser-style 1997 Yamaha Royal Star Palamino Edition motorcycle features a 1300-cc V-four engine; most cruisers favor V-twins.
 Though it looks like a wide-angle, air-cooled V-twin, the Royal Star's engine is a water-cooled V-four. |
 Large brake discs hide seven-spoke cast wheels. |
 Faux leather trim graces the hand grips. |
 Yamaha led Japanese makers into the cruiser market in the early 1980s, and the Royal Star led Yamaha's cruiser class into the 21st Century. |
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