The Raider’s mill is rigid-mounted into a light, newly designed
aluminum frame. A horizontal, hidden rear shock isolates the rider from the
angular swingarm’s movement, while the forks boast over five inches of travel.
Riding on a 21-inch, 120mm Metzeler up front, balanced by a
sensible 18-inch, 210mm wide rear tire, the Raider maintains its custom attitude
without ceding handling concerns. In order to make the bike feel as light and
balanced as possible, every effort was made to lower the center of gravity,
including placement of the fuel reserve under the seat. These accommodations
collude with the front-end architecture to produce a nimble, confident ride.
At slow speeds, the brawny Raider is exceptionally navigable.
The engine’s bustling low-end finesses the bike through traffic with deceptive
ease. Blasting down the highway, the Raider is unflinchingly solid. The
responsive engine and rowdy exhaust note tend to encourage uncivil behavior from
the right wrist. Thankfully, the smooth cruising Raider’s mirrors retain
constable-identifying clarity at ungentlemanly speeds. The crouched seating
position shelters much of the rider’s midsection, diminishing windblast.
Cornering requires some initial effort to get the 700-pounder
leaned over, but the Raider is stable enough through turns that pavement
frequently shaves the stylish fold-up pegs. The engine rarely demands gear
change through the bends, but when called upon, the 5-speed gearbox is fluid,
with light lever pull. Neutral is easily located from either direction and
acknowledged by a prominent green indicator. Dual discs cut a moderate profile
while asserting authoritative stopping power over the front wheel. Lever effort
and feedback are reassuringly moderate.
Star aptly defines the Raider as a Modern Performance Custom.
The fact that "custom" is the root of "customer" has not escaped Star’s
accessory division. They have devised an array of accents that echo the Raider’s
marauding lines. From cuspidate crash bars to flaming billet racks,
discriminating owners can thoroughly personalize their Raiders at the dealership
before roaring off to pillage neighboring hamlets in style.
www.starmotorcycles.com
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