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The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special and 1980 Yamaha XJ650 represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
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 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 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 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
| 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special | 1980 Yamaha XJ650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 654 cc | 653 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 71 hp |
| Torque | 50.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 220.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special laid the groundwork with 50hp, while the later 1980 Yamaha XJ650 pushed output to 71hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection.
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 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 →