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The 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple and 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple from Japan was powered by a 747cc DOHC triple producing 64hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 228.0kg (503 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special by contrast offered 654cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 205.0kg (452 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 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple from Japan was powered by a 747cc DOHC triple producing 64hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 228.0kg (503 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special by contrast offered 654cc of OHV twin power, delivering 50hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 205.0kg (452 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
| 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple | 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 747 cc | 654 cc |
| Power | 64 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 60.0 Nm | 50.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 3 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 228.0 kg | 205.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 245.0 kg | 220.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple laid the groundwork with 64hp, while the later 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special pushed output to 50hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 5/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple and good for the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple
A standard motorcycle from 1977, the 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple delivers 64hp from its 747cc DOHC triple engine.
Full 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple Profile →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 →