Continuing with a model run available since 1999, Yamaha upped the ante this year with a special edition - The Midnight Venture. Parts of the cosmetic makeover that distinguish it from the standard Venture include all black paint, some extra chrome, and studded accents on the rider and passenger seats.

Basically unchanged since its release and since Honda ceased manufacture of its Valkyrie Interstate line, the Venture remains unchallenged in the Japanese "full dresser" cruiser niche.

Most noticeable are the Venture's behemoth proportions. This thing outclasses all full-dress cruisers - domestic and imported - in wheelbase and overall length. An enormous fairing crowns the front end and reaches its zenith at the single 12-volt halogen headlight. With its large lower fairings, the Venture cuts quite a wake on the highway while leaving passenger and rider undisturbed by turbulence.

Power is good, owing to the Venture's 1300cc (79ci) liquid-cooled V4 engine. Opening the throttle produces a mellow exhaust note that builds with speed but without discomforting decibels. The gearing is tall - great on the Interstate - delivering a smooth cruising-speed ride. Once the revs are up, however, the big Royal Star pulls hard with a good linear feel. But this same gearing also makes low-speed maneuvers through parking lots a bit dicey for the 887-pound Venture.

Getting the claimed 97 horsepower to pavement starts with a hydraulically actuated clutch and five-speed transmission with fifth-gear overdrive. The pull on the lever is smooth and easy, but engagement on our test model was far enough out for me to start doubting whether or not the bike was in neutral (leading to more ungainly maneuvers when pulling away from a stop). A heel-toe type gear selector sits atop a generous floorboard and makes shifting a breeze. The Venture tranny did not exhibit the typical Yamaha notchiness and gear selection was clean. High-speed changes were not an issue. A low-maintenance shaft final drive delivers all this power to the rear wheel.