The Crux would suffice perfectly as an everyday street bike. The seat foam is on the dense side but along with its relaxed riding position it is hard to beat even on long rides. The engine/transmission harmony is beyond reproach. The controls are smooth in operation but the features are bare necessities. Fuel economy will not bring forth any complaints. The Crux's refined powerplant reflects Yamaha's engineering expertise, which rates with the best in the world.
  
Will all this overcome its plain-Jane looks and more critically its high price (relatively speaking) and allow it to find the kind of support necessary for survival? On the surface it looks like a struggle but if Yamaha has a deep-down marketing strategy, aggressive and innovative enough to convince buyers of the practical and the Performance attributes of the Crux, and somehow make it conspicuously visible On the Road and then follow it up with a flagship model to further strengthen the brand, the Crux may get the opportunity to become the success story that Yamaha is hoping for.
  
If there is anything to be said in defence of the Crux's styling, it has to be said that it can never be under threat of going out of style. This is not meant to be negative; on the contrary look at it this way - the person who buys a product for its Performance would never be tempted by a more stylish model, and his loyalty would be assured.
  

FOR

Torquey engine, superb gearbox and consistent fuel economy

AGAINST

Looks, price

Autocar Rating          Style and price a heavy burden for Performance to overcome

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