Ken Rides 1900 Midnight Star

A couple of weeks ago I took up the offer from CMC at chesterfield to give the 1300 midnight star a try, which I did, and enjoyed the experience.
I must admit when Ros from CMC rang again on Monday saying we have got a 1900 midnight star for you to give a run,
I thought too big! Too heavy and not for me.
Not being the biggest in the pack to cock a leg over a bike as you all know.
I thought for at least 30 seconds about and, replied see you in the morning!
The seat height is only 20 mm higher than the 1300 so shouldn't be a problem and the weight difference of 27 kg.
Would seem quite a lot on paper but in reality Yamaha have managed to sit that weight low down and makes for a well balanced machine and I felt just fine with the feel of the bike.
Moving out onto the road, the 25% increase in power was soon evident, but the main difference was the 50% increase in torque which was available at only 2500 rpm compared with the 1300 at 4000 rpm, gently does it was the order of the day!
A 20 mile trip down the M1 had me settled in to the machine and at cruising speed the engine quietens right down and the VEE twin thump all but disappears, but opening it up brings back that familiar thumping and enough torque to climb up the side of a house!
I then took to the country roads and the wide bars made the smallest roundabout and sharp bends a treat to negotiate.
My only criticism is that the warning lights for the indicators are in the tank panel and its too easy too leave them on.
Would I buy one? yes, but I will admit that Yamaha will have a job to sell them as a naked bike at the price they are, as so many people seem to go for the import option with about £2,500 worth of kit already on and at a cheaper price.
That said a nice bike,an enjoyable ride and thanks to Ros and CMC for the loan of the bike.
PS I did sit on a venture Star they had in at the time, but that's another story!!
Ken (Derbyshire Rep)