2014 Yamaha XV1900 SCL Raider – A Rare Star Cruiser in the UK

If you’ve been searching for a Yamaha Raider SCL for sale in the UK, this is likely the once-in-a-blue-moon opportunity you’ve heard about. American Cruiser UK is thrilled to showcase a 2014 Yamaha XV1900 SCL Raider – a limited-edition powerhouse cruiser that’s virtually never seen on UK roads. In this blog-style showcase, we’ll dive into the Raider’s background, what makes the Star Custom Line (SCL) editions from 2012-2014 so special, and highlight why our 2014 SCL Raider (number 321 of 500) is an unmissable find for any cruiser enthusiast.

The Yamaha Raider: Chopper-Inspired Power Cruiser

Yamaha’s Raider is a legend born from the Star Motorcycles lineup, Yamaha’s cruiser brand in the U.S. Introduced for 2008, the Raider took the proven 1854cc XV1900 platform and gave it a custom “chopper” twist. Compared to the more traditional XV1900 (Roadliner/Stratoliner), the Raider sported a raked-out front fork, a super-low seat, and the widest rear tire Yamaha had ever put on a cruiser (210mm). Its big 113-cubic-inch air-cooled V-twin was the largest Yamaha motorcycle engine at the time, delivering around 100 hp and a stump-pulling 123 lb-ft of torque for effortless, relaxed cruising. The Raider’s styling was long, low, and mean – with pulled-back handlebars, a stretched 39° rake, and a sleek tank-mounted instrument panel for that uncluttered custom look. In essence, Yamaha created a factory-built custom that could run with the best American cruiser motorcycles. It was even offered in a chromed-out Raider S version for those who wanted extra shine from the factory.

Despite its factory origins, the Raider always had an exclusive vibe – it was produced in limited numbers and built to turn heads with its “fists in the wind” stance and head-turning paint schemes each year. Riders and press alike praised the Raider for combining authentic chopper aesthetics with Yamaha’s renowned engineering and reliability. It truly blends cruiser styling and performance – a bike that looks like a custom showstopper but rides like a refined production machine.

Star Custom Line (SCL): Limited-Edition Raiders 2012-2014

To take exclusivity even further, Yamaha introduced the Star Custom Line (SCL) series – ultra-limited, factory-custom specials. SCL is Yamaha-speak for “Star Custom Line,” a range of limited-edition customs built for riders who demand something truly unique. The Raider SCL was the very first of this series in 2012, and Yamaha committed to building only 500 units worldwide for each model year. These were essentially hand-finished factory customs, each with a serial number badge on the tank and a list of premium features that set them apart from standard Raiders.

• 2012 Raider SCL: The debut model in the SCL series set the tone with an eye-popping paint job. Yamaha developed a special metallic “Blazing Orange” paint exclusively for the SCL, applied with a meticulous six-layer process to achieve a deep metalflake shine. The 2012 SCL gleamed with black-and-gold flame graphics under the clear coat, and every detail screamed custom. Yamaha partnered with Performance Machine in California to equip the bike with chrome 5-spoke wheels (21-inch front) and matching chromed belt pulley and belt guard, replacing the stock parts. It also came with stainless steel braided throttle cables and brake/clutch lines for a high-end look, plus a two-tone genuine leather seat (by Saddlemen) with an embroidered SCL logo and orange contrast stitching. An exclusive metal SCL badge with hologram on the fuel tank proudly displays the bike’s production number out of 500. In short, the 2012 Raider SCL looked like a custom show bike right off the showroom floor – and with only 500 made, it instantly became a collector’s piece.

• 2013 Raider SCL: For the second year, Star Motorcycles followed up with another 500-unit run, this time with a new color theme and a couple of upgrades. The 2013 Raider SCL featured a rich Crimson Red paint accented by Intense Black highlights – a hand-painted two-tone scheme that made the bike “stand out from the crowd,” as Yamaha put it. In place of the previous year’s orange stitching, the 2013’s genuine leather seat got beige stitching with crocodile-pattern embossing on the seating panels for an exotic touch. Mechanically, the big change was a revised clutch – Yamaha introduced a lighter clutch pull that reduced lever effort by about 20%, making this muscular bike easier to handle in stop-and-go situations. Of course, all the premium SCL features carried over: the stainless braided lines, custom chrome wheels/pulley, and numbered tank badge were all there. The 2013 stuck with lots of chrome bling (it still had plenty of shiny engine and fork components) to complement that deep crimson paint. In essence, it was another factory-built custom chopper, blending show-bike looks with everyday rideability.

• 2014 Raider SCL (Final Edition): By 2014, the Raider SCL had become the crown jewel of Star’s cruiser lineup – and this would be its final year of production, making it arguably the most special of the trio. Instead of the fiery colors and chrome of previous editions, Yamaha went “back to black” in 2014 with a hot-rod theme. The 2014 Raider SCL wears an aggressive two-tone Matte Iron and Matte Raven paint scheme – essentially a badass charcoal gray and black combo – with unique hand-painted pinstriping on the fenders and headlight bucket. Almost every component that was chrome on earlier models was blacked-out on the 2014: the fork tubes got a dark titanium oxide coating, the wheels were black, the handlebars and switchgear, the engine pushrod tubes, exhaust, air cleaner cover, and other trim were all finished in black for a modern muscle look. This was the only Raider SCL to receive the full blackout treatment, making it instantly recognizable and truly menacing in appearance. Despite the cosmetic overhaul, the underlying specs remained the same (still the 1854cc air-cooled V-twin, 5-speed belt-drive drivetrain, etc.), but Yamaha did slip in a couple of small upgrades: the turn signals went to LED units for a modern touch, and the leather seat was revised with a new two-tone pattern (beige and red stitching) for contrast against the dark paint. Like its predecessors, only 500 units of the 2014 Raider SCL were ever built – each identified by the holographic numbered tank badge. Not only was 2014 the last Raider SCL, but with its blacked-out style it’s arguably the most sought-after, as it marked the end of the Star Custom Line experiment on the Raider.

In summary, the SCL Raiders (2012, 2013, 2014) are extremely special machines. All three years share the core Raider DNA (that massive 1900cc engine and solid chassis), but they stand apart from standard models with factory custom detailing and sheer rarity. Each SCL was essentially a showstopper straight from Yamaha’s factory and U.S. custom partners – boasting one-of-a-kind paint, upgraded wheels and finishes, and that exclusive limited-edition status. For context, these bikes cost significantly more than a base Raider when new (nearly $5,000 USD above the standard model), and they were aimed at collectors and enthusiasts who would appreciate the craftsmanship and exclusivity. Even in the United States, finding an SCL Raider for sale is a challenge due to the tiny production run and the fact that many owners hold onto them. Here in the UK, they were never officially sold at all – which brings us to the truly special bike we have on offer.

What Makes the SCL Different from a Standard Raider?

You might be wondering: beyond paint and badges, what exactly do you get with an SCL Raider versus a normal Raider or Raider S? The answer is a blend of premium components, unique styling touches, and exclusivity:

• Limited Production & Numbered Plaque: First and foremost, an SCL Raider is one of only 500 made for its model year (2014 in our case). Each bike has a serialized badge on the tank denoting its number (e.g., 321/500) – a constant reminder that you’re riding a rare machine. Standard Raiders, while not extremely common, were mass-produced by comparison and have no such numbering or exclusivity.

• Custom Paint and Finish: Every SCL received a paint job that is above and beyond normal production standards. We’re talking multi-layer paints with hand-laid graphics or pinstripes, specially mixed colors that weren’t offered on any other model, and extra clearcoat for depth. For example, the 2014 SCL’s Matte Iron/Matte Raven paint with hand-done pinstriping is utterly unique – no regular Raider looks like this from the factory. Earlier SCLs had that show-quality Blazing Orange or Crimson Red scheme. In 2014, the SCL also introduced an all-blacked-out trim theme (mirrors, forks, levers, engine covers, etc.) that you wouldn’t find on a stock Raider. Standard Raiders typically came in one solid color per year (like Raven black or red) and either a mix of chrome/black on the engine (Raider S had more chrome, base Raider more blacked-out engine but not nearly to this extent). The SCL takes the finish to a custom-builder level straight from Yamaha.

• Upgraded Wheels & Chrome: All SCL Raiders came with custom 5-spoke aluminum wheels co-developed by Yamaha’s Star division and Performance Machine (a renowned aftermarket wheel manufacturer). On the 2012–2013 models these wheels were chrome-plated; on 2014 they are blacked-out – but in all cases, they’re a distinct design not used on the standard Raider. Additionally, the rear drive pulley and belt guard on SCL are matching custom pieces (chrome or black to match the wheels) instead of the plain stock parts. These not only look fantastic, but they also shave a bit of unsprung weight. In essence, the SCL gives you show-quality aftermarket rims and hardware as stock equipment.

• Braided Stainless Lines: Unlike a base Raider with rubber hoses, the SCL features stainless steel mesh braided lines for throttle, clutch, and brake lines. Beyond the visual upgrade (they have a premium woven-metal look), these lines can firm up brake feel and are generally a high-end touch found on custom builds. It’s a small detail that signals the SCL means business about quality.

• Premium Seat: The Raider is a cruiser, so comfort and style in the saddle matter. SCL models have a genuine leather seat (versus synthetic on the regular Raider) with custom stitching and embossed logos. Each year’s seat stitching matched the bike’s theme (orange stitching in 2012, beige in 2013 with exotic embossing, and a two-tone beige/red stitch pattern in 2014). These seats were crafted by aftermarket specialists (Saddlemen in 2012) with attention to both looks and how they break in over time – developing a patina unique to your bike. It’s both a visual and tactile upgrade you’ll appreciate every time you ride.

• Extra Features in 2014: The final-year Raider SCL got a few exclusive touches not seen on earlier models, like the aforementioned LED turn signals (sharper and more modern lighting) and a revised seat design. It was Yamaha’s way of sending off the Raider SCL in style with the latest goodies.

• Core Mechanics – Same Proven Performance: Importantly, what didn’t change versus a standard Raider is the mechanical heart. The SCL Raiders share the same brawny 113ci (1854cc) V-twin engine, with its pushrod 4-valve per cylinder design and electronic fuel injection for reliable cold starts. This engine is revered for its massive low-end torque – it belts out peak torque at just 2,500 rpm, meaning you have effortless power as soon as you crack the throttle. It’s mated to a smooth 5-speed transmission and belt final drive, which on the SCL is not only low-maintenance but enhanced visually by that custom pulley. The chassis is the same lightweight aluminum double-cradle frame and long 70.9-inch wheelbase, giving the Raider that planted highway stability. Suspension and brakes are likewise high-quality stock: a 46mm telescopic front fork, adjustable rear shock, twin front disc brakes and a single rear disc – more than enough stopping power for this cruiser. So with an SCL you’re not missing out on any performance compared to the standard model; you’re riding with the full might of the Raider’s powertrain, just wrapped in a far more exclusive package.

In short, the SCL is all about style and rarity, without sacrificing performance. You get the same muscular “American cruiser” riding experience the Raider is known for – big torque, comfortable ergonomics, and surprising agility for a raked-out bike – but you’ll be doing it on a motorcycle that draws crowds whenever you park it. An SCL Raider isn’t just a means of transportation; it’s a conversation piece and a collector’s item.

Our 2014 Raider SCL (#321 of 500): One-Owner, Immaculate, and Loaded with Extras

Now, let’s talk about the specific 2014 Yamaha Raider SCL we have available at American Cruiser UK – because it’s a stunner. This bike is number 321 of 500 ever built in 2014, and its condition and history are just as special as its production number. Here are the highlights:

• One Owner from New: This Raider SCL has had just a single owner since it rolled off the assembly line in 2014. That owner was clearly an enthusiast who cherished the bike – and it shows. One-owner bikes tend to have consistent care and this one is no exception. It has now been sourced from the US and is prepped for a new home in the UK. For a collector or anyone who values provenance, knowing you’re the second owner of a rare bike is a great feeling (and you can be sure it wasn’t passed around or abused by multiple hands).

• Low Mileage – 11,219 miles: In over a decade, this Raider has covered just eleven thousand two hundred nineteen miles. That’s roughly 1,000 miles per year on average, which is gentle use for a big cruiser built to eat miles. The mileage is low enough that the bike has plenty of life in it, but it’s also been ridden enough to keep everything in good working order (sometimes ultra-low miles can be a downside if a bike sat unridden for years – not the case here). With just ~11k miles, the engine is barely broken in for a Yamaha V-twin – these are very robust motors known to go the distance.

• Immaculate Condition: We can’t emphasize this enough – the bike’s condition is outstanding. The term “immaculate” isn’t thrown around lightly; in person this Raider SCL looks just about as clean as it did in the showroom. The Matte Iron/Matte Raven paint gleams (in its own satin way) with no dents or dings, and all the blacked-out components are clean and rust-free. Chrome bits (like the exhaust system) are mirror-like. The leather seat has been treated well with no tears or weather damage. It’s evident that this motorcycle was garage-kept and pampered. We’ve given it a thorough detailing and pre-sale inspection so you can see the factory hand-painted pinstriping and all the special SCL touches in their full glory. If you’re a stickler for cosmetically clean bikes, this one will not disappoint.

• Numbered Tank Badge (#321/500): As noted, the bike carries the exclusive SCL badge on the tank, showing its sequence in the limited run. This badge is not just a novelty – it’s part of what makes the SCL a collectible. Ours proudly reads 321, meaning it was the 321st unit built. It’s a cool talking point and adds to the bike’s story.

• Metzeler ME888 Marathon Ultra Tyres: The bike is fitted with matching Metzeler ME888 Marathon Ultras – a top-tier cruiser tire known for longevity and excellent grip on heavy bikes. The rear tire is a meaty 240-section  (providing that signature fat rear view), and the front is a 120-section on the 21-inch wheel. We’ve just installed a brand new front tire (the rear is in great shape as well), so you have fresh rubber to enjoy maximum performance and safety. The ME888 is a popular choice for cruiser riders who do long miles – hence the nickname “Marathon” – so it’s perfectly suited if you plan to tour or cruise far on this Raider. The matching set ensures consistent handling. Essentially, you won’t need to worry about tires for a long time; just enjoy the ride.

• Cobra “Wrap-Around” Exhaust (Rare & Desirable): This Raider SCL comes upgraded with an aftermarket Cobra exhaust system. Specifically, it’s a Cobra Speedster Swept exhaust (often nicknamed a wrap-around style because of how it visually “wraps” along the side). Cobra exhausts are well-regarded in the cruiser community for their quality, sound, and performance tuning. This particular design gives the Raider a deep, throaty rumble that’ll make your presence known, without being obnoxiously loud at idle. It also adds a bit of extra horsepower and torque thanks to better flow (and it shaves some weight vs. the bulky stock exhaust). Aside from the performance aspect, let’s be honest – it just looks awesome. The sweeping pipes complement the Raider’s lines perfectly, and the chrome finish ties in nicely with the few remaining chrome accents on the 2014 model (like the pushrod tubes on the engine). The Cobra exhaust is a sought-after upgrade and not easy to find, especially here in the UK. It’s already installed and tuned, so you get to reap the benefits without the hassle of sourcing and fitting it yourself.

• Passenger Backrest and Crash Bar Fitted: For added comfort and practicality, this SCL Raider is equipped with a passenger backrest (sissy bar) and pad, as well as highway crash bars (engine guards). The passenger backrest is a big plus if you ever ride two-up – it gives your passenger a secure, comfortable perch and adds confidence on longer rides. It’s a genuine Yamaha backrest that matches the bike’s styling. The crash bar (engine guard) not only offers some protection for the bike’s sides in case of a tip-over, but also provides a place to stretch your legs or mount highway pegs for those long cruises. These accessories are both practical and enhance the cruiser look of the Raider. They’re also bolt-on additions that can be removed if purist style is your thing, but we find they add to the bike’s touring capability. Having them already fitted saves you a few hundred pounds and installation effort compared to adding them later.

• Fully Serviced and Inspected: Our American Cruiser UK team has given this Raider SCL a thorough going-over as part of our pre-delivery inspection (PDI). This included a fresh engine oil and filter change, so the big V-twin is lubricated with new full-synthetic oil – ready for many more miles. We also flushed and replaced the brake fluid and clutch fluid, ensuring the hydraulic systems are in top shape (important for a bike that may have spent time in storage). All other maintenance points have been checked: the belt drive has been inspected and adjusted, all lights and electrics function properly, and the battery is strong. Essentially, this bike needs nothing except a willing rider. It’s 100% road-ready and will come with a comprehensive PDI report for your peace of mind. We stand by the quality of our bikes, especially one as unique as this, so we’ve made sure it’s mechanically sorted and safe.

• UK Registration & Documentation: (Worth mentioning – this bike is USA-imported and now UK registered. We handle the paperwork to ensure it’s DVLA registered on a UK age-related plate, so you can buy and insure it just like any local bike. All import duties and VAT are taken care of by us.) Basically, you’ll be able to legally ride this Raider SCL on UK roads immediately upon purchase, with no extra red tape. It will also be supplied with a new MOT certificate for further reassurance.

• Price: £12,995 – Considering the rarity and condition of this machine, we’ve priced it at £12,995. This reflects not only the exclusivity of the Raider SCL, but also the fact that it’s loaded with extras and is essentially turn-key ready for the new owner. To put it in perspective, acquiring a standard Raider in the UK (a rare feat itself) and then sourcing all the custom parts and paint to SCL level would likely cost far more – and still wouldn’t be an “original” SCL. At £12,995, you’re getting a genuine piece of Yamaha’s custom lineage, a bike that sold for about $17k in 2014 (and that’s before import costs and the value of limited status). If you’re a cruiser aficionado, this price is a gateway to owning something truly special that will hold its value and uniqueness for years to come.

Virtually Unseen in the UK – A Rare Cruiser Opportunity

We want to stress how uncommon this motorcycle is on British shores. The Yamaha Raider itself was never officially imported to the UK by Yamaha – it was a model targeted at the American market (even the Star Motorcycles branding was a U.S. thing). That means even a standard Raider turns heads at UK bike meets due to its novelty. Now factor in that this is an SCL Raider – one of only 500 of the 2014 and likely one of only a handful (perhaps a literal one or two) that have ever made it to the UK. In the USA, an SCL is extremely rare; in the UK it’s practically unheard of. This is the kind of bike most UK riders will never have seen in person, and may never see again. It’s not just a motorcycle; it’s a conversation starter, a show piece, and a slice of modern Yamaha history.

American Cruiser UK previously sourced a 2014 Raider SCL for a client and it sold before it even reached UK soil – that’s how hot the demand and curiosity can be when one shows up. If you’re a collector of rare bikes, a Yamaha enthusiast, or simply someone who wants a cruiser that stands out from all the Harley-Davidsons and Triumphs, this Raider SCL is your golden ticket. It blends the appeal of an American cruiser motorcycle (big V-twin, bold styling) with the engineering of a Japanese manufacturer, and wraps it in a package so rare that you’ll likely never park next to an identical bike. It’s truly a “blue moon” find on the UK market.

Imagine rolling up to a bike night or a show – seasoned bikers will walk right past rows of common bikes to circle around this Raider, asking “How on earth did you get one of those?!” It’s that level of rare. And beyond the novelty, it’s a seriously capable machine for riding. Whether you fancy blasting down the motorway with that 1900cc torque, or cruising coastal roads and enjoying the rumble of the Cobra pipes, the Raider SCL delivers an experience that’s as visceral as it is visual.

About American Cruiser UK – We’ve Got You Covered

At American Cruiser UK, we specialize in importing and selling exceptional cruisers and touring bikes, particularly those iconic machines that are hard to find on this side of the Atlantic. We handle part exchange – so if you have a bike you’d like to trade in, let us know and we’ll work out a fair deal to get you on this Raider. We also offer nationwide delivery, meaning we can get this bike safely to your door anywhere in the UK (so don’t worry if you’re not local to our showroom). The bike will be delivered fully prepped, cleaned, and ready to ride – you just put the key in and go.

For additional peace of mind, this Raider SCL comes with a comprehensive warranty from us. We stand by the quality of our bikes, and although Yamahas are famously reliable, we provide a warranty to cover any unexpected issues. You’ll get the details of the coverage in writing, ensuring you can buy with confidence.

When you buy from American Cruiser UK, you’re not just getting a bike – you’re getting service and support from fellow enthusiasts. We love these machines as much as you do, and it shows in the quality of our inventory and customer care. Just check our testimonials and you’ll see that we pride ourselves on honesty, transparency, and going the extra mile to make your buying experience enjoyable.

Call to Action – Don’t Miss Out!

This 2014 Yamaha XV1900 SCL Raider is a rare gem on the UK market – a bike that combines collectible rarity, showstopping style, and road-going muscle. It’s the final-year SCL, one-owner, low-mileage, and loaded with premium extras. In other words, you likely won’t find another one like this in the UK anytime soon (or possibly ever). If reading about it gets your heart pumping, seeing it in person will truly seal the deal – the photos hardly do justice to its presence.

Don’t let this opportunity slip away. Whether you’re a Yamaha devotee, a cruiser collector, or just someone who wants the baddest bike on the block, this Raider SCL checks all the boxes. Come down to our showroom to view this beauty – we promise you’ll be blown away by its condition and aura. We can arrange a test ride (with the usual safety gear and license checks) so you can feel that 1900cc torque and hear the thunder of the Cobra pipes yourself. But act fast – given how scarce these are, serious interest is high and we anticipate this bike will find its new owner quickly.

Contact us today at American Cruiser UK to schedule a viewing or to ask any questions. Our friendly staff is ready to assist with financing options if needed, discuss your part-exchange, or provide a shipping quote for delivery. We’re as excited as you are about this motorcycle, and we’d love to see it go to a fellow enthusiast who will appreciate it as much as the last owner did.

In summary: 2014 Raider SCL #321/500 – £12,995 – fully serviced, immaculate, and virtually one-of-a-kind in the UK. It’s more than a bike; it’s a conversation piece, a collectible, and a hardcore cruiser all in one. Make it yours and own not just a motorcycle, but a piece of Yamaha’s custom legacy.