VS
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special and 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE 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 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 62hp at 5200rpm. Tipping the scales at 258.0kg (569 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 62hp at 5200rpm. Tipping the scales at 258.0kg (569 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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 | 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 654 cc | 1207 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 62 hp |
| Torque | 50.0 Nm | 92.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 258.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 220.0 kg | 278.0 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
For pure cruiser performance, the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide, however, excels when relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort is the priority.
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 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide
Harley-Davidson released the 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide in 1978 with a 1207cc OHV V-twin Shovelhead powerplant making 62hp — a definitive cruiser.
Full 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide Profile →