VS
The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago and 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide both compete in the cruiser segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago from Japan was powered by a 981cc OHV V-twin producing 74hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 240.0kg (529 lbs) and with a seat height of 750mm, 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. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago from Japan was powered by a 981cc OHV V-twin producing 74hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 240.0kg (529 lbs) and with a seat height of 750mm, 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. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago | 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 981 cc | 1207 cc |
| Power | 74 hp | 62 hp |
| Torque | 77.0 Nm | 92.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 240.0 kg | 258.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 278.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 750 mm | 700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1560 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure cruiser performance, the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago has the edge thanks to more power (74hp vs 62hp) and 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. Parts availability is moderate for the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago and good for the 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE Super Glide — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago
The 1984 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago packs a 981cc OHV V-twin engine with 74hp into a cruiser package from Yamaha.
Full 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago 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 →