VS
The 1980 Yamaha XJ650 and 1978 Suzuki GS1000 both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1980 Yamaha XJ650 from Japan was powered by a 653cc DOHC inline-4 producing 71hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 215.0kg (474 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Suzuki GS1000 by contrast offered 997cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 87hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 237.0kg (522 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 1980 Yamaha XJ650 from Japan was powered by a 653cc DOHC inline-4 producing 71hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 215.0kg (474 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Suzuki GS1000 by contrast offered 997cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 87hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 237.0kg (522 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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
| 1980 Yamaha XJ650 | 1978 Suzuki GS1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 653 cc | 997 cc |
| Power | 71 hp | 87 hp |
| Torque | 56.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 215.0 kg | 237.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 232.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1978 Suzuki GS1000 has the edge thanks to more power (87hp vs 71hp) and a higher top speed. The 1980 Yamaha XJ650, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. For collectors, the 1978 Suzuki GS1000 commands more attention with a 6/10 collectibility rating.
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 →About the 1978 Suzuki GS1000
Introduced in 1978, the 1978 Suzuki GS1000 features a 997cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 87hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1978 Suzuki GS1000 Profile →