In 2008, alongside the standard and Midnight versions, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer launched the Yamaha Roadliner S, a cruiser machine with the same performance and technical specifications as the base model but with more chromed elements.
The bike debuted in 2006 and continued production until 2017. The bike was also known as the XV1900A, sold in the American market through Yamaha's Star Motorcycles division, and was the largest Yamaha motorcycle while in production.
The 2008 Roadliner S had standard features, such as a large, round headlight on the front, a wide handlebar, a teardrop-style fuel tank, a two-piece dual seat, a single exhaust system with an oversized muffler, and 12-spoke aluminum wheels.
Aside from its standard features, the S version packed more chrome than the base model, including elements such as the headlight housing, front fork, engine casings, cylinder covers, exhaust system, and several other bits and pieces here and there.
In the performance department, the 2008 Yamaha Roadliner S had its heartbeat set by a 1,854cc four-stroke V-twin air-cooled engine, fed by a fuel injection system, delivering 99 hp with a peak force at 4,250 rpm and 167 Nm (123 lb-ft) torque at 2,250 rpm.
A 46 mm telescopic fork with 135 mm wheel travel on the front and a link-type shock absorber on the rear with 105 mm wheel travel delivered excellent suspension performance and handling.