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The 1970 Yamaha R5 350 and 1972 Yamaha XS650 represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1970 Yamaha R5 350 from Japan was powered by a 347cc 2-stroke twin producing 36hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 145.0kg (320 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1972 Yamaha XS650 by contrast offered 654cc of OHV twin power, delivering 53hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1970 Yamaha R5 350 from Japan was powered by a 347cc 2-stroke twin producing 36hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 145.0kg (320 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1972 Yamaha XS650 by contrast offered 654cc of OHV twin power, delivering 53hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1970 Yamaha R5 350 | 1972 Yamaha XS650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 654 cc |
| Power | 36 hp | 53 hp |
| Torque | 32.0 Nm | 53.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 145.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 158.0 kg | 212.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1970 Yamaha R5 350 laid the groundwork with 36hp, while the later 1972 Yamaha XS650 pushed output to 53hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1972 Yamaha XS650 holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1970 Yamaha R5 350 and good for the 1972 Yamaha XS650 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1970 Yamaha R5 350
Born in 1970, the 1970 Yamaha R5 350 is a 347cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 36hp from Yamaha.
Full 1970 Yamaha R5 350 Profile →About the 1972 Yamaha XS650
The 1972 1972 Yamaha XS650 is a 654cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1972 Yamaha XS650 Profile →