In 1994 Yamaha announced the creation of Star Motorcycles, a new standalone brand name for its cruiser series of motorcycles in the American market. Although a separate brand, Star motorcycles will continue to be sold at Yamaha dealerships. In other markets the same bikes will still be sold as Yamahas. In 2006 The brand was expanded to being its own company, although Yamaha still handles production and distribution. The brand is operated out of the Yamaha America offices in Cypress California; the motorcycles are designed in the United States.