2007 XVS1300A MIDNIGHT STAR

At the last CMC sponsored Pub Quiz , Ross from CMC asked Malc if any one from the club would like to try out the new XVS 1300A Midnight Star they had just in, I was asked "would I fancy it?", too true!, it would be nice to do a comparison against my 1100 Dragstar Classic.
Tuesday 27 th. March saw me at CMC, even the fog and very cold wind was not going to put me off.
After a few cursory checks I was off.
The first thing I noticed on rolling on the throttle was a greater availability of power from the off , I made a mental note to keep a check on the right hand, the bike only had 9 miles on the clock!
I had decided to take the chance to go over the route for my ride in to join the "gathering ride" next month, so I set off onto the M1 knowing it was 80 miles and would give me plenty of time to get used to the bike.
She was eager to get going and soon settled down, to a steady 55-60 with the throttle just cracked open, this was varied at intervals to assist with running in.
I at first noticed that straight line riding was just that!
And the white lines and ruts in the slow lane, that we all hate, were just soaked up, and no deviation was felt at the bars.
Great! I like it! I had a couple of comfort stops en route , the second for petrol, after going onto reserve.
This is done automatically with the Speedo going to zero and counting the miles on reserve, and a warning light draws your attention as well.
I will admit on seeing 25 miles come up, I thought have, I got my AA card!.
Leaving the motorway, I soon found out it was a very easy bike to control and took bends and roundabouts with ease, and I am sure I was grinning at this point!
I soon arrived at destination and Parked up for a break.
As the sun was out by now, I decided to leave the motorway and travel home the pretty route.
I ended up at Custom Cruisers at Alfreton as I knew I would get a free cup of coffee!
The bike was given a good look over by a few customers, and I even recruited a new member!
Time for home and return the bike (AAAH!)
Well I must say it was an enjoyable day and sad it had to end, would I buy one?
Yes! Not just yet, unless the 6 numbers come up.
It is only 5 mm taller seat height and about 20lbs. heavier, so it suited me just fine, and allayed any fears I had about it being too big.
I am 5 foot 8 in tall and weigh 12.5 stone and found it very manageable.
Anyone wanting to give it a try,
Ring CMC on 01246 559900 and book a test run.
Quote VSOC membership number, and see if it gives you the grin factor as well.
Ken (Derbyshire rep) Ride safe.