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The 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 and 1972 Yamaha XS650 represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 from Japan was powered by a 654cc OHV vertical twin producing 53hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, 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 XS-1 650 from Japan was powered by a 654cc OHV vertical twin producing 53hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, 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 XS-1 650 | 1972 Yamaha XS650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 654 cc | 654 cc |
| Power | 53 hp | 53 hp |
| Torque | 53.0 Nm | 53.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 212.0 kg | 212.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 laid the groundwork with 53hp, while the later 1972 Yamaha XS650 pushed output to 53hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection.
About the 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650
The 1970 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 packs a 654cc OHV vertical twin engine with 53hp into a standard motorcycle package from Yamaha.
Full 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 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 →