In 2009, alongside the base model, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer launched the Yamaha Road Star Midnight Warrior with the exact technical and performance specifications but a more sober look due to its black treatment.
Instead of all the chrome presented by the standard model, the Midnight version received a blacked-out finish, resulting in a more aggressive and darkened look. In addition, the bike's blacked-out appearance was enhanced by gold-colored components, such as the front fork and wheels.
It packed the same standard features as previous models, including a round headlight, a wide, pulled-back handlebar, a teardrop-shaped tank, a two-piece dual seat, a side stand, a two-into-one exhaust system with a single silencer mounted on the right side, and five-spoke lightweight alloy wheels.
Underneath its fuel tank, the 2009 Yamaha Road Star Midnight Warrior had installed a 1,670cc four-stroke air-cooled V-twin engine fed by an electronically controlled fuel injection system, boasting 84 hp at 4,400 rpm and 99 Nm (135 lb-ft) torque at 3,750 rpm.
The bike's suspension system comprised a 41 mm Kayaba inverted telescopic fork with 135 mm travel on the front and a rebound and preload-adjustable link-type shock absorber on the rear with 110 mm of travel.
As for the braking performance, the bike packed two 292 mm discs coupled to four-piston calipers on the front wheel and a 282 mm disc with a single-piston caliper on the rear wheel, offering excellent stopping power.