Yamaha Black Cherry (0957) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This color is a shape-shifter that defined the sophisticated side of the Yamaha lineup for over two decades. Whether it is draped over the long fenders of a Stratoliner or the sharp fairings of an FJR1300, the finish acts like a deep, dark wine that only reveals its true character when the sun hits it. In the shade of your garage, it might pass for a soft black, but direct light pulls out a rich, dark red glow that gives your bike a heavy, premium presence on the road. Since this shade has been a staple since 2002, your paint has likely seen plenty of sun and weather, which means the underlying red tones might be slightly more muted than when they first rolled off the line.

Technical Details

This is a metallic finish, which means it relies on tiny flakes suspended in the pigment to catch and reflect light. Because these flakes are heavy, they tend to settle at the bottom of the container quickly. If you do not keep the flakes suspended, you risk a finish that looks blotchy or uneven. Metals like this are sensitive to how you apply them; if you apply the paint too thick in one spot, the flakes will bunch up and create dark streaks or shadows. Consistency is the secret to making the repair disappear into the original factory finish.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Yamaha Black Cherry (check for code 0957), you need to shake the container for at least sixty seconds to ensure those metallic flakes are evenly distributed. You can usually find your color ID tag on the frame rail under the seat or occasionally tucked inside a side cover. Before you touch your bike, test the color on the included card to see how the metallic flake lays down. When you start the actual repair, keep the container moving to prevent the paint from pooling. If you are using a pen or brush, use light, thin layers rather than one heavy glob. This allows the metallic particles to sit flat, which prevents the repair from looking darker than the rest of the tank or fender. Give each layer enough drying time so the paint doesn't drag when you apply the next coat.