VS
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special and 1971 Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide are both iconic 1970s cruisers that defined their respective markets.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special from Japan was powered by a 654cc OHV twin producing 50hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 205.0kg (452 lbs) and with a seat height of 760mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1971 Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 65hp at 5500rpm. Tipping the scales at 260.0kg (573 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 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 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special from Japan was powered by a 654cc OHV twin producing 50hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 205.0kg (452 lbs) and with a seat height of 760mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1971 Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 65hp at 5500rpm. Tipping the scales at 260.0kg (573 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 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
| 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special | 1971 Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 654 cc | 1207 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 65 hp |
| Torque | 50.0 Nm | 95.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 220.0 kg | 280.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 mm | 700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two cruisers are remarkably well-matched. With 50hp versus 65hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. For collectors, the 1971 Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special
The 1978 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special is a 654cc twin-cylinder cruiser that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special Profile →About the 1971 Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide
The 1971 1971 Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide packs a 1207cc OHV V-twin Shovelhead engine with 65hp into a cruiser package from Harley-Davidson.
Full 1971 Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide Profile →