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The 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple and 1980 Yamaha XJ650 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 1980 Yamaha XJ650 by contrast offered 653cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 71hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 1980 Yamaha XJ650 by contrast offered 653cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 71hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 | 1980 Yamaha XJ650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 747 cc | 653 cc |
| Power | 64 hp | 71 hp |
| Torque | 60.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 3 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 228.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 245.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 16.0 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 1980 Yamaha XJ650 pushed output to 71hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1977 Yamaha XS750 Triple and good for the 1980 Yamaha XJ650 — 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 1980 Yamaha XJ650
Born in 1980, the 1980 Yamaha XJ650 is a 653cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 71hp from Yamaha.
Full 1980 Yamaha XJ650 Profile →