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The 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 and 1973 Yamaha RD250 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 1973 Yamaha RD250 by contrast offered 247cc of 2-stroke twin power, delivering 30hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 143.0kg (315 lbs) with a top speed of 145km/h (90 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 1973 Yamaha RD250 by contrast offered 247cc of 2-stroke twin power, delivering 30hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 143.0kg (315 lbs) with a top speed of 145km/h (90 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 | 1973 Yamaha RD250 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 654 cc | 247 cc |
| Power | 53 hp | 30 hp |
| Torque | 53.0 Nm | 24.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 145 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 143.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 212.0 kg | 155.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -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 1973 Yamaha RD250 pushed output to 30hp. 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. Parts availability is good for the 1970 Yamaha XS-1 650 and moderate for the 1973 Yamaha RD250 — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 1973 Yamaha RD250
Born in 1973, the 1973 Yamaha RD250 is a 247cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 30hp from Yamaha.
Full 1973 Yamaha RD250 Profile →